Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works

Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works - Creative Souvenir Creation
Local Expert's Rating:
5.0 / 5
The Bottom Line:

Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works lets you forge your own knife to take home with you as a souvenir of your trip to Pigeon Forge. Friendly staff guide guests through the knife forging process, and each participant leaves with their own custom blade and an education about forging. With various blade and handle styles available, each visit creates a unique piece. 

- The SmokyMountains.com Local Expert Team

When visiting a new location, a unique souvenir may be an important part of your trip, and that’s exactly what you can get with a visit to Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works. Offering a truly hands-on experience, Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works gives you the chance to learn blacksmithing techniques as you forge your own knife and blade. This locally-owned establishment is run by a former farrier, so you can be confident the staff knows their techniques well.

To experience this unique activity, you will need to make an appointment ahead of time on the company’s website. When you book, you can choose the type of blade that best fits your needs. The pony shoe, horseshoe, and rear knives are the simplest and ideal for beginners, but if you feel up for a challenge, consider the railroad tie knife. On occasion, they have opinions for walk-ins, but appointments always take precedence.

At the scheduled time, head to the forge. The friendly staff will greet you and give you step-by-step guidance as you craft your blade. No worries about safety during your experience, as all safety gear is included as part of the process. You will get to heat the made, shape it, refine it, and then polish it. Then, the staff will give you instructions for proper blade care so your newly forged blade will last. You’ll leave with your new blade in hand! All knives come with a leather sheath for your safety and the protection of the blade as you travel home.

Do you have a unique idea outside the standard knives offered? Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works offers custom commissions. Simply give the team a call ahead of time to talk though your ideas, and watch your creation come to life.

What sets this experience apart from other attractions is the hands-on nature of the demonstration. You can see blacksmithing demonstrations at other local sites, but here, you will also get to do the steps on your own. If you have no experience, the clear instructions from the staff will allow you to achieve success! Each lesson and experience is tailored to the individual interests and experience levels of the guests in attendance, and small groups mean the staff can provide one-on-one attention throughout the forging process.

If you’re traveling with kids, rest assured that the team at Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works has safety protocols for young guests. This activity is particularly popular with teenagers and young adults, but children of all ages can participate at some level. 

Insider Tips:
-For beginners, the rebar and horseshoe knives work best, as the railroad tie knives are more complex.
-Feel free to bring friendly dogs with you, as this is a dog-friendly attraction.