Forged in Fire Fails: Takoba vs. Attila's Sword – What Went Wrong?

We all love a good Forged in Fire episode, especially when things don’t go exactly to plan. There's a certain satisfaction in watching a skilled maker wrestle with a tough project – and even more so when we can learn something from their struggles. This latest mashup highlights the challenges faced by Justin Mavity tackling a Tuareg Takoba and Dan Strang's attempt at Attila the Hun’s sword. It’s a reminder that even with experience, bladesmithing is a constant learning process.

The Takoba, a broadsword used by the nomadic Torrid people of North Africa, presented Justin with a unique set of hurdles. The requirement that the hilt contain no exposed steel, a direct result of the Torrid people’s aversion to iron, is a fascinating design constraint. Justin’s approach to the pommel, using hat pins to mimic the geometric designs common on traditional Takoba hilts, was a nice touch – a personal tribute to his late brother. However, the video quickly reveals concerns about the tang thickness. That’s a critical point—a flimsy tang will ruin even the most beautifully forged blade. You can almost feel the tension as he worried about it.

Dan’s build of Attila the Hun's sword, dubbed “Sword of Mars,” offered a different kind of lesson. While younger and perhaps a bit underestimated, Dan’s enthusiasm is infectious. He’s clearly serious about his craft, and his use of reclaimed leaf springs for steel is a clever bit of resourcefulness – a hallmark of a resourceful knife maker. The forging process itself was straightforward enough, but the warping during the quench highlighted a common pitfall: a long blade is more susceptible to distortion if not handled carefully during heat treating. It’s a good reminder to all of us to pay close attention to evenness and flatness during forging, especially with longer blades.

Key Takeaways for the Forge

• Tang Thickness Matters: Justin’s concerns about his tang weren’t unfounded. A robust tang is the backbone of any strong blade.
• Quench Control is Crucial: Dan’s warping experience underscores the importance of proper quench technique. Understanding your steel and quench medium is essential.
• Material Sourcing Creativity: Dan's use of leaf springs is a great example of how to be resourceful and find value in unexpected places. Think beyond the usual billet steel – what else can you forge?
• Handle Integration: Justin’s epoxy-based handle construction highlights a common modern technique. Secure handle attachment is just as important as the blade itself.

Watching these builds is a good reminder that even the most experienced bladesmiths face challenges. It's about recognizing those challenges, adapting, and learning from mistakes. For those of us still honing our skills, it's a chance to see what can go wrong – and how to avoid it. Want to put what you've learned into practice? Consider attending a Field Trip to a local bladesmithing shop or signing up for a Live Workshop at a HolyPlace. These are fantastic opportunities to learn from experienced makers and get hands-on experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned Blade Angel or just starting out, there’s always something new to learn in the world of edged tools. Keep forging, keep learning, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.