Adam Savage's One Day Builds: Swordmaking at Weta Workshop!

On a trip to New Zealand, Adam Savage stopped by Weta Workshop to meet Peter Lyon, Weta's Master Swordsmith. Spending a day with Peter, Adam learns how the armorist designed and created the swords for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films, and learns swordmaking to fabricate his own Strider-inspried blade!
Shot and edited by Joey Fameli
Subscribe for more videos! / subscription_c. .
Follow us on Twitter: / testedcom
Get updates on Facebook: / testedcom
Tested is:
Adam Savage / donttrythis
Norman Chan / nchan
Simone Giertz / simonegiertz
Joey Fameli www.joeyfameli.com
Gunther Kirsch guntherkirsch.com
Ryan Kiser / ryan.kiser
Kishore Hari / sciencequiche
Sean Charlesworth / cworthdynamics
Jeremy Williams / jerware
Kayte Sabicer / kaytesabicer
Bill Doran / chinbeard
Ariel Waldman / arielwaldman
Darrell Maloney / thebrokennerd83
Kristen Lomasney / krystynlo
Intro bumper by Abe Dieckman
Set design by Danica Johnson / saysdanica
Set build by Asa Hillis www.asahillis.com
Thanks for watching!
#AdamSavage #OneDayBuild #WetaWorkshop

[@bioLarzen]

I've noticed it multiple times in previous videos - especially the armor-series - and I'm noticing it here too: I love how Adam lets these great artists and craftesmen explain in detail things and processes to him he already knows, without making one single remark that it's not new info to him - like here when he's being explained the risk of stress fracture if those corner cuts aren't rounded. Of course Adam knows this already well - but still, he just keeps rogering the info. That kind of "respect to the master" is a rare and great trait.

[@thecoolestkyle]

There's definitely some benefit in that, too. Listening to others explain things you already know can help you understand them a little bitter, or maybe learn some additional uses for various methods and techniques; but also, you get to add new "tools" to your "teaching toolbox." I myself am a big fan of analogies, so listening to others explain things I already understand--or at least I think I understand--adds more depth to my own explanations when I'm trying to teach someone else! Listening to people is definitely a skill, and the best way to get better at it is to practice!

[@macarotto]

Agreed, plus even if you as the person making the video already know this, the people watching the video might not know it, so it helps us lay-folk keep up to speed with what's going on.

[@bioLarzen]

@@macarotto Indeed.

[@cleverusername9369]

I've long noticed that Adam is an extremely generous listener, he doesn't interrupt or correct or say "I know". He's also generous just in general, if you think about it, sharing his knowledge and stories and experiences with us, and he has a knack for remembering the name of literally everyone he's ever worked with and loves to give them credit. He's a real good dude.

[@johanjonasson4188]

I think it's also to tell us the viewers how it's done. Because we also like to know how a sword is made.

[@duon44]

I like this guy, he's like a friendly sword making giant

[@RFC3514]

Giants for swords, dwarves for axes, can't go wrong.

[@shinoto.]

@@RFC3514 Big facts.

[@ike8236]

BFSMG

[@gunnaryoung]

I'm digging that normal profile picture

[@MidniteHorrorfest]

If only his name was Andre and he was from Astora.

[@DavidGuyton]

This guy is a fabulous teacher.

[@UpperDarbyDetailing]

@Joe Jon stupid bots, admitting to felonies

[@UpperDarbyDetailing]

Love your channel, looking forward to trying out some of your tips/techniques on mine.

[@outshimed]

"It just loses time if you start bleeding everywhere." Total pragmatist.

[@Kugelweber]

I laughed so hard at this

[@auntiecarol]

I wonder if it's one of those "old classics": our woodworking teacher in high-school about 35 years ago in the UK used to say exactly the same thing.

[@dave_s_vids]

What a fantastic teacher he is, and big respect to Adam for not assuming he knows everything already!

[@natyong]

Which is why Mythbusters worked for so many years! If he already knew everything and didn't actually test it...well It would have been cancelled after a pilot episode.

[@ljguy300]

It takes skill to be a good student.

[@SlugLineMediaProd]

I love the passion and affection the Weta folks still show for LOTR. You can tell it was more than a few movies for them -- it really was a world.

[@hunter88J]

Weta is just amazing in every way. just the way he talks about his grinder is passionate

[@jazzmonkey856]

look how proud Peter is teaching his craft and seeing the progress Adam's sword is going through...

[@AverageMoose]

I loved Adam in Mythbusters but I've gained so much more respect for him after seeing him on this channel. What an awesome guy

[@seanflannery930]

"How nice do you want this to be? Do you wan't to do all the grinding yourself, or should I step in?" Haha I love this guy

[@Gnuzifer]

I like Peter a lot! And I like how he lets Adam do what he thinks is right and only guides him through the important things.

[@jmigoyo321]

I love the guy’s outfit. Hasn’t given a F in years!!

[@Fuzzycat16]

Like most people who work in a shop.

[@zackncheez55]

@Caligula F

[@marcuskurschat2417]

He ages ten years as you go down ha! Gotta love the dude though

[@TheDnmrtn]

I think most people that have had their shirt get stuck in a machine, or anyone that knows someone who have had their shirt stuck in a machine will do the same... Sorry for long comment.... I am a potato

[@RanninRavensight]

@@TheDnmrtn agreed! Better to look like an alive and whole dork than a cool corpse

[@909sickle]

If a guy tucks his t-shirt into his sweatpants, you know he's gonna be good at making swords.

[@prophet5257]

true :v

[@edgarpoe517]

Well I do that, can't say I'm any good at swordmaking so I might be the exception.

[@moviemaker85]

or you just play with them and its "thordth"

[@anhnhvn]

It's a sensible thing to do if you hang around any sort of heavy machineries. Reducing the number of things on your body that could get stuck on moving parts.

[@spencerlarson9697]

or... really good at karate

[@MHTutorials3D]

Adam, you are such a respectful guy. Love it

[@breaux2806]

Lol that guy teaches the way I do at my job. Stands by and gives hints, expecting you to mess up and learn from your mistakes. I love these videos where it's Adam going out and learning something new from other legends

[@nielsniels18]

*casually pulls out THE Boromir sword*

[@spiritas5372]

Sean bean intensifies.

[@ShellShock794]

I liked how it was just lazily sitting on some random shelf in the middle of the shop

[@at752]

@@spiritas5372 One does not simply pull out the Boromir Sword

[@andrewedgecombe]

Also casually: Yeah, the handle used to be green, but it got covered in Orc blood

[@nathanaelgodson3994]

*casually bends THE Boromir sword like its made from rubber*

[@justinkirck6137]

Hey all, professional blacksmith/knifesmith/swordsmith in NYC. Adam, if you ever make it out to Brooklyn, you are welcome at our shop. We'll get you working on a steel blade and heat treat it for your second day of swordsmithing. :)

[@allluckyseven]

Peter is a very gentle man. So great to see him giving Adam instructions. Man, he should write a book about this subject.

[@nullunit]

Under different circumstances, I am pretty sure Adam would actually be moving to NZ to work for WETA 😄

[@zeikjt]

1:00:14

[@frozenthunderbolt1]

About time we had an Adam video - it's 90% of the reason for my suscription

[@tested]

Stay tuned! Adam wrapped his new TV show this week, and will have more time for videos now!

[@racheljones8160]

@@tested Just want to say kudos to whoever wrote this comment. What a great way to kindly address a comment that could be considered snarky, with positivity and being very generous with information! We aren't owed anything but thank you for keeping us updated on the happenings behind the scenes at Tested!

[@richytyler]

@@racheljones8160 more kudos to you as this is an eveb better message to address Mr potential Narky!!!

[@CrazyRespawn]

except this footage is from 2016.

[@CharlieChalk9790]

lol me too!!

[@mechouilli]

Gollum Tshirt is awesome ! Also dude seems to be genuinely kind. I loved everything about this video!!

[@neblin7]

"That's the reason you heat treat", as he bends the blade on the original Boromir's sword at almost a 45 degree angle. Holy bendable swords Boromir!!!!

[@_Heinle]

The discussion on distal tapering is absolutely fascinating... it's amazing!

[@braddles345]

Interesting to watch Adam not run around in a crazy rush. More methodical, and it is really cool to see as well!!

[@thuddiz]

Brad Woollon hahaha right! It looks weird to me that he doesnt run around haha.

[@celuler22]

thats what i love about him he is fast in his own shop doing stuff he knows but as soon as he is out of his element he slows down and listens to people to teach him

[@j6x]

Peter is seems like a nice teacher, such a pleasant experience listening to him!

[@dodgerdude7968]

"The handle is black because it soaked up black orc blood" that is metal AF

[@googleuser859]

Metal AF, what does that mean?

[@Sativasoldier666v2]

@@googleuser859 Metal as in the metal music genre, basically he is saying it's pretty hardcore.

[@duon44]

@@googleuser859 metal as fuck

[@AceTheBathoundProductions]

@@googleuser859 Metal AF means Metal As Fuck. In short, some kind of hard core... Real Bad Ass in other words.

[@Cr4igpeterson]

AceTheBathound then why not just say that’s hardcore? 😂🤔

[@That3DPrintGuy]

Captain sweat pants seems like a really nice guy!

[@kiwishamoo6494]

Of course, he's a Kiwi!

[@matthewchandler2019]

Bro I love your channel! Crazy seeing you comment on Adams stuff.

[@batt3ryac1d]

They are fucking trackie dacks bro

[@autumncolours8602]

Comfy and less likely to catch fire

[@finalxcx]

This guy seems to really love what he does and loves to share his experience and craft.

[@dannyparkncl]

These videos where Adam becomes an apprentice from a true master of their craft are brilliant, more of these please.

[@dzonc]

The tested team has this amazing talent for finding these wonderful, wholesome makers who enjoy sharing their knowledge, I'm very happy to see these longer episodes - great content!

[@chrisstraley2002]

Seeing Adam so giddy and eager to learn new skills at his age with just such wonder like a kid brand new to the world; And for all these years makes me so warm and fuzzy inside.What and amazing human being, truly. LOVE YOU ADAM! HUGE FAN! :)

[@awmperry]

What a fantastic teacher he seems to be, too. Constantly cheerful, relaxed and utterly competent.

[@dommyboi6926]

I went to new Zealand wellington for a holiday and they are all very nice and cheerful, really want to live in NZ when I get older

[@leonardocucchiara4782]

"May this be the hour that we grind swords together."

[@HunterRodrigez]

"Hey, the guy who used to do Mythbusters is coming in today for that video" "Alrighty, gonna wear my best sweatpants"

[@gunnaryoung]

That's the hardest I've laugh all week! Thank you!

[@jaratt85]

being comfortable while working greatly increases the quality of the product at the end.

[@gnomad42]

And use the American pronunciation of aluminum, not aluminium.

[@SCwirlify]

@@jaratt85 Wearing a three-piece silk suit when working with machine-oil and aluminium dust is the only way to do it

[@Kraguzguz]

"Hey the MythBusters guy is coming" "So what, I did ALL FREAKING SWORDS from Lord Of The Rings and The Hobbit. AND IT TOOK ME 6 WHOLE YEARS." Don't Judge the guy on his pants. Judge him on Anduril.

[@aggeman2]

When he pulled out "THE" Borromir sword it really felt like: "So while that's in the oven here's one I've prepared beforehand" :P

[@RichardDarell]

I like how the "Eye Protection Must Be Worn"-sign looks exactly like Adam Savage. :P

[@RhysCake]

Adam is actually on the channel for a change

[@antraxxslingshots]

because it´s recycled premium footage...

[@Volgrus]

Right, the only thing I watch, and the only reason I subscribed is for Adam's segments.

[@DAVOinIN]

@@Volgrus Sammmeeeee - I wish we could ditch the other jokers and just get Adam.

[@wilhobbs207]

16:45 "this should be very familiar to you". Adam - "oh yeah" Everything but the safety gear, that is. lol

[@Regdrem]

No one has ever been more of a badass wearing sweatpants.

[@SkemeKOS]

Mike Tyson, Bruce Lee, Ali... ;)

[@chris92S]

@@SkemeKOS you just proved without a doubt that sweatpants are badass lol

[@cleverusername9369]

Sweatpants and a TUCKED IN t-shirt*

[@AdrenalineRu5h]

Such an awesome video. I love seeing highly skilled people work on their craft and discuss the little details. Peter was a great teacher / guide for Adam. Would love to see more long detailed videos like this in the future.

[@mikelynch920]

Adam’s reaction at 53:25 is priceless. What an amazing moment. I could listen to Peter Lyon for hours.

[@aquadarkskull3248]

I remember making a sword once... used a broken hedge trimmer blade and used some foam for the handle. Used tape also to attach the foam to the handle part. It looked like something you would see from mad max or something...

[@EdwinRyan-artist]

Excellent... great to see Adam back making. Most enjoyable vid in a while and a big mention for Peter also, a real gent with the aura and calm of a Master !

[@mikec2505]

I know I’m late in on this, but in this world that seems to be so crappy at the moment, how absolutely heartwarming is it to come across a guy like Peter who is just straight down the line a nice guy?

[@erikhendrickson59]

The existence of this video makes very, very happy!

[@nealsterling8151]

Fantastic Video! This is actually exactly what i'm looking for since i'm in building Swords like this myself. The part where they discuss the blade geometry, and how grinding will affect the shape is invaluable to me. So again, THANK YOU for this amazing video!!!

[@montlejohnbojangles8937]

Just two nice dudes making swords together. ❤️

[@matteagle6914]

he seems to me like a generous nice guy. very patient and also its sounds to me, like he really had joy making this with adam and see adam learn. i would go and get a drink with him. cool video and thaks for not cutting it down to much :)

[@simonvaughan1270]

Adam, 38 minutes into this you have a 'school child look' on your face, you're so proud. Your face when he says you're doing a good job. Love it man. Another great video, THANKS!

[@KeirMurphy]

Loved how humble you were in this video. You can tell you're really listening and taking it all in from an experienced teacher.

[@V1Speed360]

I would love to see more of this sword making guy from WETA workshop

[@chrismanning5349]

I was beginning to think we'd never see another Adam building video without going premium. Praise Jesus!

[@XhellscreamX]

Been waiting 3 years for this vid to come out!! Was quite a surprise to see Mr Savage there.

[@DarkBishop342]

I'd love to see Peter Lyon compete on Forged in Fire. The look on everyone's face when a legend walks in the room.

[@seeingthepattern]

Adam is a fantastic example of a very talented and experienced maker, showing complete and humble respect to a master of a different skill-set teaching him something new. And Peter Lyon is a fantastic teacher … explaining what, how, and why very clearly. Then he steps away and let’s the student get on with it, but is immediately at Adam’s side when he needs to be. Really enjoyed this video.

[@5chr4pn3ll]

Yes! Love it, and love that it is long! Adams mic seems to have been off but it still works. Many more like this please :D

[@Christen0220]

I would love to see a crossover of Adam with the team of Baltimore Knife and Sword

[@-lll-ll-llll-AVE]

What a great teacher (he seems like a kind chap too) and an interesting curious student! Lovely video

[@jacobhamilton8167]

Great Video guys, I really like these lengthy ones that show almost the entire process. Really respect the craftsmanship from Adam and Peter.

[@at752]

Peter Lyon: Do you want to finish it, or do you want me to finish it? Adam Savage: Yes.

[@Glass112]

its so impressive to see a true master at work. Love the editing on this episode, so much wisdom from experience that cant be recreated on second takes!

[@bcostell69]

absolutely fascinating, amazing seeing you two together, that was hard work well done Adam, a lot to take in especially as the tip was being formed.

[@r.b.rozier9692]

Just the tip?

[@davischris]

Great video. I love to see it all come together. Hope you enjoyed making it as much as we did watching it

[@roberthackett6684]

This guys is an amazing teacher, the way he is able to articulate the smallest detail such as the need to reduce downward pressure while moving the blade from one side to the other is incredible!

[@oswaldohipolito8400]

When he bent Borimir's sword my anxiety hit 100 so fast lol

[@NikEdw70]

This was awesome! Im so happy you got to make that sword. And that guy Peter Lyon was amazing. He did what he loved and he was good at it! Im so chuffed about this!

[@dal3767]

Thank you. So much enjoyed this workshop. Enjoying the content. Look forward to seeing more :)

[@IcyMidnight]

One generous person sharing his skills with another ❤️

[@k0nenine]

brilliant vid i put these on when im working(making) in the garage and yes started by just watching tested . Love you guys

[@-MrFozzy-]

I’ve really missed your one day builds....my joy has increased immeasurably now!

[@coolethan22]

Like Adams eagerness to learn. He has almost a childs curiosity and it is refreshing and hits home he loves his job and knows he can always keep learning.

[@TheChrispy]

Peter Lyon is such a sweetheart! Looks like it was a lovely time.

[@UhEviqs]

This was so enjoyable to watch. Good to see a decent craftsman's touch from the Weta bloke.

[@joakimhansen7733]

Adam is great of cause, but I have to say Peter Lyon is just so good in this too.

[@countzero1136]

At last another one day build! Awesome work, as usual!

[@TruthIsTheNewHate84]

Peter seems to be a great teacher. Patient and explains everything very clearly. It also helps that Adam is so skilled. Grinding a fuller is a lot harder than it looks.

[@sshsbm10120]

I think it’s interesting how so many people are commenting on his sweatpants without noticing how he’s got everything tucked. It’s an old factory tactic to prevent getting you clothes from getting sucked into the machines. It’s just a really cool detail that you can notice that comes from someone working for years in the trade.

[@Arkanic]

I swear these videos can never be long enough. 50 Minutes in and it feels more like 15 minutes. LOVE IT!

[@lokuzt]

To anyone interested in historical sword building and concepts, I recommend looking for "Peter Johnsson: Paradoxes of Sword Design" it's an in-depth documentary on scientific swordsmithing and all the complex calculations needed to make a sword have correct balance, shock resistance, percussion and pivot spots to make it feel like a _sword_ and not a sharpened crowbar

[@jayn8392]

Very cool vid. Peter seems like a very nice guy with alot of knowledge and experience. What a cool opportunity for Adam.... Can't help but be a bit jealous lol...

[@jerryjohnsonii4181]

Very Cool !!!!!!! I can't wait to see it all finished. I collect swords an have a The Braveheart replica sword too.

[@Greentreeanduril]

I’ll happily watch any video featuring the people of Weta. Not enough content out there of them doing what they do. This is a real treat

[@tlac4120]

I love to see Adam - an experienced Maker - learn new things.

[@Scarhandz]

Love this video!. Did the cameraman work on Batman Forever? because he was making me blood red mad with those angles and swimmy movements lol

[@sodiumbenz]

Likely due to the fact that they appear to be in a slightly overcrowded shop though. I totally agree some of the angles were tough.

[@Scarhandz]

@@sodiumbenz agreed. Great vid all in all though.

[@CptFUBAR]

I'm just so amused at how blown away Peter is that Adam is highly competent

[@BoldRam]

Such a great episode. Peter "Lord of the Blade' Lyon mentoring Adam by basically saying, "Here's how I do it, have a go and i'll show you the bits to watch out for" Really impressed with the finished article. When he did the sword museum episode recently I could see him take what he'd learnt here to his understanding of those swords and the way they were made. Adam almost deserves honorary Kiwi status for the all the positive promo and fantastic way he showcases our talented Kiwis and our NZ can-do attitude. My two favourite bits had to be seeing Adam's semi-orgasmic reaction to hearing 'distal taper' and Peter seamlessly switching and converting between metric and imperial.

[@musstakrakish]

Just watched all of the making of LOTR and saw Peter!! Was so awesome seeing him!

[@ps4shotsgaming528]

Peter Lyon the Buddah of sword making, He seems very chilled out and I love the passion he has for his work,Great stuff.

[@itsnothardev]

this video brings me great joy

[@Diago767]

Finally!!! I've been waiting for this one for litterally years :P Keep up the good work Adam, amazing as always :)

[@enoughofyourkoicarp]

That came out looking amazing! I love it! ♥

[@theknoah]

Peter Lyons is amazing and I always knew that in the abstract. This video solidifys it for me. He was super informative and very patient with Adam. I have been a hobbyist knife maker for about 3 years now and I learned a ton from this video. Also as an aside, grinding a blade is all about fluid consistent movements, sweat pants are actually very appropriate attire for what equates to yoga movements

[@chazzplaya]

I'm quite happy for this becoming the Weta/Adam channel

[@AlexiLaiho0]

Very intresting video! I love the LOTR trilogy and the strider sword has always been one of my favorite swords. It came out beautiful and thank you so much Tested!

[@resisticles2564]

I still think a video with you and Alec Steele would be fantastic. the kid was made for a camera. very skillful blacksmith at the age of 20

[@woo545]

That is some impressive work and mentoring.

[@MrJoeGarner]

Excellent work! @Adam Savage's Tested.

[@ultranitro437]

YES ABOUT TIME ADAM!!!!

[@JackCliffordWilliams]

Hi folks! Thank you so much for releasing this amazing video for free! 👍

[@igorpost4894]

This is a wonderful video. So much passion and excitement! Adam, it feels like you have a wonderful aptitude to anything you put your mind to. It appears everything went exactly according to plan, but I was wondering if there were some snags along the way?

[@jamieholden8187]

Very rewarding to watch how mutual respect grows throughout the entire process

[@artisticgoose2609]

This Gents knowledge is amazing! Hell of an interesting video.