Forge Your Blade. Create Your Story.
Step into the heat, wield the hammer, and craft your own blade under the guidance of master bladesmiths
What is the Bladesmithing Experience?
A One-Day Journey from Raw Steel to Finished Blade
Discover the art of bladesmithing in a fully immersive, hands-on experience. Under the guidance of our award-winning team, you’ll forge, shape, and finish your very own knife in just one unforgettable day.
No experience needed. Just your passion and curiosity.
🔥 Forge the blade
🔥 Heat treat and temper the steel
🔥 Grind, shape, and finish your masterpiece
🔥 Walk away with a blade you crafted with your own hands
The Perfect Gift
Give the Gift of Fire & Steel
Searching for a gift that’s unforgettable?
Whether it’s for birthdays, anniversaries, Father’s Day, or simply to spark adventure, our Bladesmithing Experience is a story they'll carry forever.
Corporate & Groups
Forge Stronger Teams
Step out of the boardroom and into the forge, where sparks fly and teamwork takes on a whole new meaning. At Black Dragon Forge, we transform ordinary team-building into an unforgettable, hands-on experience that forges true collaboration and resilience.
Whether it’s leadership retreats, executive incentives, or employee recognition, our corporate Bladesmithing Experience challenges your team to create something real, together. It’s not just about crafting a blade - it’s about igniting creativity, building trust, and leaving the day with both a tangible achievement and a stronger bond.
Guided by master bladesmiths, your team will work side by side in the heat of creation, walking away with newfound respect for each other - and their own handcrafted blades to prove it.
What You’ll Walk Away With?
Your Blade. Your Achievement!
It won’t win competitions, but it will win your pride. Every participant finishes the day with their own knife — sharp enough to shave hair, crafted with their own hands.
⚔️ Keep your creation as a personal trophy.
⚔️ Share your blade using #MyFirstBlade for a chance to be featured.
⚔️ Forge memories that last a lifetime.
Where is the Black Dragon Forge Located?
Where the Forge Lives
Hidden in the heart of the Crocodile River Reserve, in Lanseria, 45 minutes from both Johannesburg or Pretoria, Black Dragon Forge is more than a destination - it's a journey.
You’ll drive the final 7.5 km through protected wilderness, down a winding dirt road with a 40km/h limit - a fitting lead-in to the raw, grounded experience that awaits.
This isn’t a city workshop. This is the real deal! The setting is quiet and surrounded by nature - the perfect environment to focus, create, and connect.
Download Printable Map (PDF Format)
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any prior experience?
Not at all! 🔥
Our Bladesmithing Experience is designed for complete beginners. Whether you’ve never held a hammer before or you’re already curious about the craft, our masters will guide you every step of the way. From raw steel to your finished blade, you’ll be in expert hands throughout the entire process.
Can I keep the blade I make?
Absolutely - that’s the whole point! ⚔️
At the end of the experience, you’ll walk away with your very own handcrafted blade. We make sure no knife leaves the forge until it’s sharp enough to shave arm hair! It’s not just a memento - it’s a badge of pride and proof of what you’ve achieved in a single day.
What should I wear to the forge?
Come dressed for action. 👖👕🔥
We recommend comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit smoky or dirty. Closed-toe shoes are a must for safety. Avoid synthetic fabrics if possible, as natural fibres are safer around heat and sparks. Safety gear is provided, but if you have your own, feel free to bring it along!
How many people are in a class?
We typically host around 10 participants per class, which allows us to give you plenty of personal attention while keeping the forge atmosphere lively and social.
For private or corporate groups, we can accommodate up to 15 people. If you’re interested in a custom experience, just reach out - we’d love to craft something special for you.
Can I book this as a gift?
100%, yes - and it’s one of our most popular gifts! 🎁
Our online vouchers let you give the experience of forging fire into steel. The recipient simply selects from our scheduled class dates to lock in their adventure.
Pro tip: No wrapping paper needed. The memory of crafting their own blade will last far longer than any gift box!
Send a gift voucher - redeemable for any available class date
What time does the class start and end?
Classes run from 7:45 AM to just before 5:00 PM.
Please plan to arrive a little earlier to get settled — especially as the last stretch of the drive is on a dirt road inside a Nature Reserve with a speed limit of 40 km/h. We recommend allowing an extra 15 minutes for travel.
Is lunch provided?
Yes! We provide a traditional South African lunch around 11 AM, including:
🥩 Beef Boerewors
🥣 Pap (maize meal)
🍅 Tomato and onion sauce
☕ Coffee, tea, and Oros (South African fruit drink)
Please note, we only cater with beef boerewors. If you have specific dietary requirements or preferences, feel free to bring your own meals and refreshments - we’ll make sure you have access to the necessary facilities.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes - our classes are open to anyone 14 years and older.
Minors (under 18) must be accompanied by a legal guardian for the full duration of the class. They will work together as a pair (at the cost for 1 person) to make 1 knife.
Is there a fitness level required?
Bladesmithing is a physical activity that requires a reasonable level of fitness. You’ll be standing, hammering, and working with tools throughout the day.
If you have any doubts about your physical ability, we recommend you call us in advance at 083 451 3105 to discuss. Please note: discovering on the day that you're unable to complete the class will not be grounds for a refund.
What safety measures are in place?
We provide all essential protective equipment, including:
- Safety glasses (must be worn at all times)
- Leather apron
- Leather gloves
Please wear non-flammable clothing and sturdy leather shoes or safety boots. No shorts or open shoes (“plakkies”) are allowed in the forge. And no alcohol is permitted on the premises.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Please be sure of your availability before booking, as all bookings are final.
Cancellations or rescheduling are not permitted, and the full class fee is forfeited if you cancel.
In the rare event that we need to cancel a class, you will receive a full refund of your class fee. However, we cannot cover any additional travel or accommodation costs.
Can someone come with me to watch?
For safety and space reasons, only booked participants and required legal guardians (for minors) are allowed in the forge area.
Ready to Forge Your Story?
Step into the heat of the forge and turn raw steel into your own masterpiece.
Under the guidance of masters, you’ll shape fire and metal into something you can hold with pride - your very first blade.
Whether you’re searching for adventure, a unique gift, or simply the thrill of saying “I made this”, the Black Dragon Forge Bladesmithing Experience is waiting for you.
🔥 No experience needed
⚔️ All tools and materials provided
🛠️ Walk away with your handcrafted blade - and a story to tell!