Five Things You Need to Know About Forged In Fire's Ben Abbott
Entering it’s tenth season, the number of weapons created on Forged In Fire is dwarfed by the shear number of smithing fans, hobbyists, and professionals inspired by the hit History show. One of the most prominent smiths to be elevated by the show is judge and undefeated champion Ben Abbott.
RELATED: THERE’S STILL TIME TO GIVE THE GIFT OF BEN ABBOTT FOR CHRISTMAS
Once an early contestant, Ben’s exceptional camera presence coupled with his immense skill in the forge resulted in him becoming a welcome addition to the judge corps. Ben was gracious enough to spend a few minutes speaking with us earlier this year. Here are five things you need to know about Ben Abbott from Forged In Fire.
He learned to blacksmith by volunteering at a historical village
As a young boy in Long Island, Ben was fascinated with blacksmithing. After fashioning a homemade coal forge, Ben would heat up files and springs to beat on. It wasn’t until he visited Old Bethpage Village Restoration where he saw a traditional blacksmith in action. First visiting, Ben then began to volunteer at the village on Sundays, learning how to craft tools and ornamental ironwork.
He spent over 18 years as an Engineer prior to bladesmithing professionally
Ben is educated as an Electrical Engineer, which he did professionally, including over 18 years at Cal Tech. His engineering background led to an attention to detail and love of problem solving which have helped him tremendously in his bladesmithing career.
He participated in a project that won the Nobel Prize in Physics
During his time at Cal Tech, Ben worked on a project called LIGO (Laser Interferometric Gravity-wave Observatory). This project shot a laser between two observatories monitoring for passing gravitational waves. In 2015, Ben and his group finally detected a gravitational wave and the subsequent paper written by them would go on to with the prestigious award.
RELATED: THINGS ARE GETTING HOT IN THE KITCHEN WITH THE SANTOKU
He is the Ultimate Forged in Fire Champion
Ben made his first appearance on Forge in Fire in Episode 10 of Season 2. After his Tabar emerged victorious, he was then brought back in the first episode of Season 3 for a “Champions Edition” competition (this time, his Scottish Claymore bagged him the victory). After proving to be a fan-favorite, Ben made his debut as a part-time judge in Season 3.
Since then, Ben has appeared increasingly more often on the show, mostly as a judge but occasionally as a contestant. Special episodes including “Beat the Judges” and “Beat the Unbeaten” have again seen Ben dominate the forge leading to an amazing undefeated streak.
He has created some awesome online courses
Joining forces with Billet to Blade, Ben has created some world-class educational content. Beginning smiths can take his “Make your own Chef’s knife” course to learn how to, well, make your own Chef’s knife! Looking for something a little more advanced? Ben’s Damascus Santoku class will have you forge welding in no time. All of Ben’s classes are delivered in high quality digital videos that let you learn at your own pace.
You can learn more about Ben Abbott’s career by checking out our exclusive interview. To stay updated on all things Forged in Fire, including the impending release of season 10, be sure to follow BRUTE de FORGE on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
If you buy something through this post, BDF may get a share of the sale. Click here for more info.
TRENDING
About The Author
More Forged in Fire
