SD School of Mines Blacksmithing team wins first place at 2024 TMS Bladesmithing Competition

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KEVN) - The South Dakota Mines Blade smithing team captured glory at the International 2024 TMS Bladesmithing Competition.

The competition included more than 20 universities from throughout the globe as each school displayed its sword designs.

The blade design that Mines came up with was inspired by swords from the European Migration Period. One particular sword that they found a liking to was discovered in Sutton Hoo, England.

The Mines team captain Christopher Mercado described the material they used to create their sword.

“It’s really up to the freedom of the students. What would they want to challenge themselves to? Whether they just buy some commercial steel and make a nice little blade or, if they go to the Black Hills like we did and find some bog iron and try to smelt and use that for some our blades so,” said Mercado.

In addition, the blade included iron ore, a deer antler for the handle, and plenty of garnets.

To get into the competition, the team only needed to submit pictures of their blade and fill out paperwork to the Minerals, Metals and Materials Conference. After a review, the conference was pleased and punched the School of Mines ticket to Orlando.

Mercado and his team were excited about the competition and putting their sword up against others.

Team member Tyler Reinarts says he was expecting to win first place but was still a bit surprised they came out on top.

“I kind of thought we would win anyway because I was confident in our stuff, but it was slightly a surprise, because like I said I was trying not to be too confident,” said Reinarts.

Reinarts added that they came in second place in the previous international competition and that it was very satisfying to finally be crowned winners.

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