Chad Kennedy

In the fiery world of bladesmithing, where skill meets artistry, Chad Kennedy stands out as a dedicated craftsman. As an American Bladesmith Society (ABS) Journeyman Bladesmith, Kennedy has proven his ability to create knives of exceptional quality, blending traditional forging techniques with personal flair. His victory on the History Channel’s Forged in Fire has further solidified his reputation as a rising star in the bladesmithing community. This article delves into Kennedy’s journey, his achievements, and his passion for crafting blades that are both functional and beautiful.

From Passion to Proficiency

Based in Holliday, Texas, Chad Kennedy’s love for bladesmithing began in 2010 after meeting his mentor, the late blacksmith Jerry Starr. Starr’s guidance ignited a spark in Kennedy, who spent years honing his craft before establishing his own forge in 2015. “Jerry taught me a lot of things that really expedited the process of me becoming a better bladesmith and knife maker,” Kennedy shared in an interview with Times Record News. His small shop, equipped with just a few tools, became the birthplace of his journey toward mastery.

https://www.timesrecordnews.com/story/news/local/2020/08/25/forged-fire-competition-won-local-bladesmith/3433665001/

Kennedy’s dedication to the craft is driven by three core passions: his faith, his family, and the art of knifemaking. His commitment culminated in June 2021 when he earned the prestigious ABS Journeyman Bladesmith certification, a testament to his skill and perseverance. This milestone required Kennedy to be an active ABS member for at least three years, forge a carbon steel blade capable of passing rigorous performance tests, and submit five knives for evaluation by a panel of Master Bladesmiths. The tests, which include cutting a 1-inch manila rope in one swing, chopping through a two-by-four twice, and bending the blade 90 degrees without breaking, are designed to ensure only the most skilled smiths earn the title. Kennedy’s success in this process marked him as one of approximately 248 Journeyman Bladesmiths worldwide.

Victory on Forged in Fire

Kennedy’s talent gained national recognition when he competed in a special two-episode competition on Forged in Fire, a popular History Channel show that pits bladesmiths against each other in high-pressure forging challenges. Airing during the show’s seventh season, Kennedy’s performance was nothing short of remarkable. Facing three other competitors, he navigated strict time constraints and challenging tasks, forging a blade that outperformed the others by a significant margin. His victory earned him prize money, which he planned to use to upgrade his equipment and treat his wife, Jenny, to a well-deserved date night. “There’s definitely a market for the knives that people use,” Kennedy noted, highlighting the demand for his practical yet intricately designed blades.

Kennedy’s Forged in Fire win showcased his ability to thrive under pressure, a skill honed through years of forging and learning from mentors like Starr. The show, known for its dramatic challenges and tight timelines, tests not only technical skill but also creativity and problem-solving. Kennedy’s triumph brought public attention to his work, introducing his craftsmanship to a broader audience and reinforcing the value of hand-forged blades in an era dominated by mass production.

Crafting Knives with Character

Kennedy’s knives are known for their functionality and distinctive aesthetic. Specializing in practical designs like small, everyday carry knives, he adds unique touches such as custom handles with silver wire inlay. A basic knife might take him 10 hours to craft, while a complex Damascus blade with intricate patterns can require a full week of meticulous work. His attention to detail and commitment to quality reflect the high standards of the ABS, which emphasizes both performance and artistry in bladesmithing.

Operating from his shop, Chad Kennedy Knives, he creates custom pieces tailored to his clients’ needs. His website invites customers to reach out for personalized orders, showcasing his approachable nature and dedication to his craft. Kennedy’s work not only serves practical purposes but also embodies the artistry of forging, a tradition the ABS has championed since its founding in 1976 by William F. Moran.

http://tharwavalleyforge.com/articles/reference/235-the-american-bladesmith-society-preserving-the-art-of-bladesmithing

A Bright Future in Bladesmithing

Chad Kennedy’s journey as an ABS Journeyman Bladesmith and Forged in Fire champion is a testament to the power of mentorship, dedication, and passion. His ability to transform raw steel into functional art has earned him a place among the world’s finest bladesmiths. As he continues to forge, Kennedy carries forward the ABS’s mission to preserve and promote the art of bladesmithing, inspiring others through his work and his story.