America's top bladesmiths, martial artists, and bladesport competitors bring their historical, custom made weapons to an intimidating knife course designed to test their skills. Can a Filipino Panabas produce a flawless run? Or will a War Dirk be ready to do battle for the top spot? And which Kukri will go the farthest? Only two competitors advance to face off on the punishing final course – "Dead Run." The last one standing will move on to the finale and a shot at $20,000 and the Knife or Death Champion crown.

Skilled martial artists, expert bladesmiths, and a ferrier will step up to the toughest knife course ever created with their custom made weapons. Will the Roman Gladius dominate just like it did thousands of years ago? Or can a Machete teach the older blades some new tricks? And will the self-proclaimed 'Mother of All Bowies' live up to its name? The fastest two competitors go head-to-head on the daunting final course - "Dead Run." One will return for the finale and compete to win the title of Knife or Death Champion and $20,000.