What HACKSMITH MANUFACTURING LTD. does

Hacksmith Manufacturing Ltd. (operating as Hacksmith Industries / The Hacksmith) is a privately held Canadian creator and engineering company founded by James Hobson in 2012 and formally incorporated in 2015. Headquartered at the 17-acre Hacksmith Engineering Research Campus (HERC) in Cambridge, Ontario, the company designs and fabricates real-working prototypes inspired by fictional technologies from movies, television, video games, and comics. Its core engineering capabilities span plasma physics (multiple generations of lightsabers, including a Guinness World Record solid-bladed unit), hydraulics and robotics (the CAT-chassis Powerloader exoskeleton with ROS-based control), electromagnetic systems (Thor's hammers, Halo MA5 railgun), hydroforming (Captain America's shield), shape-memory alloys (self-healing Wolverine claws), ballistic composites (John Wick NIJ Level II/IIIA bulletproof suit), hydroforming and CNC metal fabrication, additive manufacturing, and AI-assisted robotic control via ChatGPT and Eleven Labs integration.

Hacksmith monetizes through seven distinct revenue streams: YouTube advertising on a 14.2M+-subscriber main channel plus 30+ international translated channels, YouTube channel memberships, brand sponsorships with global entertainment and technology partners (Marvel, Warner Bros Discovery, Lionsgate, Paramount, ASUS/ROG, Samsung, Google, CAT, DigiKey, Toyota, Red Bull, Gravity Industries, Psyonic, among many others), direct-to-consumer merchandise through hacksmith.store (anchored by the Mini Saber V2 plasma torch), professional Creator Management services for third-party creators (sponsorship acquisition, contract review, channel management, patent filing, product creation), and patent/product licensing. Go-to-market is hybrid and community-led: top-of-funnel reach is generated by viral YouTube content and an active Discord community, mid-funnel through 3D models on Thangs.com and exclusive tours of HERC, and bottom-of-funnel through the company's own e-commerce store and direct B2B sponsorship outreach via [email protected]. The company is founder-led with a small named leadership team including a Chief of Operations, Lead Engineer, Mechatronics and Robotics Engineers, and a Head of Video Production, and it serves a dual audience of engaged sci-fi/maker consumers and global brand partners seeking access to that audience.

Name

HACKSMITH MANUFACTURING LTD.

Legal name

Hacksmith Industries

Website

https://hacksmith.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2012

Operating status

Operating

Short description

Hacksmith Manufacturing Ltd. is a privately held Canadian creator and engineering company that designs and fabricates real-working prototypes inspired by fictional movie, TV, and gaming technology, monetizing through YouTube content, brand sponsorships, consumer merchandise, and creator management services.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Headquarters

HQ city

Cambridge

HQ country

Canada

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure, Supply Chain

Revenue model

1. YouTube Ad Revenue: Primary revenue stream from YouTube advertising. YouTube generally pays approximately $X per 1000 views. More views equals more revenue.
2. Brand Sponsorships: Revenue from sponsored content and brand partnerships. The company works with world-leading brands including movie studios, manufacturing giants, and high-tech startups.
3. YouTube Memberships: YouTube channel membership program where fans pay monthly for exclusive perks and behind-the-scenes content.
4. Merchandise Sales (Hacksmith.store): Sale of branded merchandise and products including Mini Saber V2, inspired by plasma lightsaber technology.
5. Creator Management Services: Non-exclusive management services for creators including brand deal acquisition, contract services, media channel management, patent filing, and product creation. Win/win relationships where company benefits when creators benefit.
6. Patent Filing Services: Writing and filing patents for creator inventions and content as part of creator management program.
7. Product Licensing: Digital and physical product creation and sales for creators managed under the program.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels10 records

Core offering

Hacksmith Manufacturing Ltd. (operating as Hacksmith Industries) designs and fabricates real-working engineering prototypes inspired by movies, TV, games, and comics. The company produces YouTube video content around these builds, sells consumer merchandise (including the Mini Saber V2) via hacksmith.store, offers B2B brand sponsorship integrations, and provides creator management services to other YouTube creators.

Product overview

Hacksmith Industries is a creator company that produces YouTube content and builds physical prototypes inspired by movies, TV, games, and comics. Their core product is the Hacksmith YouTube channel (14.2M+ subscribers, 2B+ views), which showcases engineering projects including lightsabers, superhero props, vehicles, and weapons. Supporting offerings include the hacksmith.store e-commerce platform (selling products like Mini Saber V2), Creator Management services for other content creators, and HERC (Hacksmith Engineering Research Campus) - a 17-acre facility housing workshop, studio, and maker space. The company also makes 3D models available through Thangs.com. Major prototype projects include the Powerloader (Aliens), Captain America's Shield, Thor's Hammers, Wolverine's Claws, Halo weapons, Batman gadgets, Ironman suit components, Half Scale Cybertruck, and John Wick's Bulletproof Suit.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• HERC: Hacksmith Engineering Research Campus - the company's headquarters and engineering workshop facility located at 605 Beaverdale Road, Cambridge, Ontario.
• Hacksmith Creator Management
• Hacksmith.store

Products and services

• Mini Saber V2 A consumer-focused, real working 'mini lightsaber' product engineered and sold directly by Hacksmith via its own e-commerce store at hacksmith.store. Targeted at sci-fi fans and engineering enthusiasts who follow the channel.
• Creator Management Service A B2B service for content creators that bundles brand deal acquisition, contract review, business profile setup, media channel management, patent filing, and product creation. Includes a Directory Membership available on quarterly or yearly subscription basis.
• Hacksmith YouTube Channel Memberships Recurring paid memberships on the Hacksmith YouTube channel providing viewers with exclusive perks and direct support of the channel. Membership revenue is a documented income stream.
• Hacksmith 3D Models and Build Plans (Thangs) Digital products published on the Thangs.com designer profile under the Hacksmith name, including 3D models and build plans inspired by Hacksmith prototype projects for makers to download and build.
• Brand Sponsorship Integrations

Quantifiable outcome

• 2B+ total YouTube views across all content
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers5 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature13 records

Partnerships

64 partnerships are on record, tiered core and major.

• CAT (Caterpillar)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCAT partnered with Hacksmith for the Powerloader build, providing the skid-steer loader used as the chassis. In the film's universe, CAT manufactures the power-loader machinery, making this a perfect brand sponsorship alignment.
• Smarter AlloyscoreTechnology or IntegrationProvided shape memory alloy technology for Wolverine's self-healing claws, enabling the claws to repair themselves after damage when heat is applied.
• ASUS / ROGmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerASUS creates industry-leading technologies and computer hardware that keeps Hacksmith at the cutting edge. ROG line powers the entire team and critical programs. Featured as major partner case study.
• Warner Bros DiscoverycoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSponsored Batcave project and gave full permission to recreate iconic Bat-world content. Major entertainment studio partner for DC properties.
• Lionsgate FilmscoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerStudio behind John Wick franchise. Stepped in at the last minute to boost and approve the bulletproof suit project video collaboration.
• Paramount PicturescoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerMajor movie studio partner for various content collaborations.
• Marvel StudioscoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFeatured brand partner enabling content recreating Marvel technologies including Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, and Wolverine.
• DigiKeycoreTechnology or IntegrationSupplies electronics parts for projects including switches, sensors, lights, wires, and much more.
• AVID CNCcoreTechnology or IntegrationMakes CNC routers from small to enormous sizes. Their 5X10 pro model enables building huge and complex parts out of wood and metal for custom manufacturing operations.
• SolidworkscoreTechnology or Integration3D modeling program of choice used for literally decades. Foundation of over 1000 amazing Hacksmith projects.
• Bambu LabcoreTechnology or Integration3D printers run 24/7 at Hacksmith, helping make everything from small prototype pieces to giant production models with incredible speed and accuracy.
• Red BullcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner supporting content creation.
• OnePluscoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner for technology collaborations.
• ToyotacoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner for automotive-related content.
• SamsungcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner for consumer electronics collaborations.
• ShopifycoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner for e-commerce platform collaborations.
• Gravity IndustriescoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartnered with Gravity Industries to test multiple versions of their jet suits. Exploring electric jet propulsion for Iron Man flying suit capabilities.
• Eight SleepmajorGTM or Marketing PartnerSponsored Secret Apartment project featuring tech-packed ceiling apartment with Eight Sleep Pod Cover bed system capable of heating, cooling, and sleep monitoring.
• WarframemajorGTM or Marketing PartnerCreated two Battlebot Orbitron copies for Las Vegas competition through Warframe partnership. Game collaboration generating 2.2M+ views and 100k+ likes.
• The Container GuycoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerYouTube container experts who delivered perfect containers for Batcave project, spec'd to perfection including all elements needed.
• PsyoniccoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerBionic limb company partnered to build a YouTuber a new bionic hand as part of 2023 projects.
• Mr. BeastmajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaborated to build the world's largest Thor's Hammer as a major 2022 project collaboration.
• FlexispotcoreTechnology or IntegrationProvided standing desk prototypes including 86-inch wide desk for Iron Man Desk project.
• DellcoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for computing technology.
• xToolcoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for laser cutting and fabrication technology.
• ElegoocoreTechnology or IntegrationMakes SLA and FDM 3D printers. Hacksmith prints huge models on Orangestorm Gigas.
• University of WaterloocoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFeatured educational institution partner.
• Bosch ToolscoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for power tools and workshop equipment.
• HexArmorcoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for safety and protection equipment.
• Altium DesignercoreTechnology or IntegrationProvides world-class PCB design tools for building electronics and controllers that power projects.
• JLCPCBcoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured partner for PCB manufacturing services.
• iFixitcoreTechnology or IntegrationMakes favorite toolkits for small assembly/electronics work and provides teardown guides for fixing electronics.
• ThangscoreTechnology or IntegrationPlatform for sharing 3D models with fans and enabling discovery of 3D printable and manufacturable models, plans, and files.
• Capital OnecoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner.
• AuracoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner.
• NordVPNcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner.
• AudiblecoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner.
• GooglecoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for various technology integrations.
• LG ElectronicscoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner.
• TektronixcoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for testing and measurement equipment.
• Keysight TechnologiescoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for electronic testing equipment.
• Wazer Water JetcoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for waterjet cutting technology.
• Medieval DepotcoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for medieval-themed tools and materials.
• Kairos MediacoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured marketing partner.
• The Outloud GroupcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured influencer marketing partner.
• Farfar Away Corp (ultrapillar)coreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured brand partner.
• DroneblockscoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured partner for drone technology.
• Elite Metal ToolscoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for metalworking tools.
• 20th Century FoxcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFeatured movie studio partner.
• AdobecoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for creative software.
• MammotioncoreTechnology or IntegrationRobotic lawnmowers keep Hacksmith's lawn looking fresh with Luba II and Luba Mini.
• RoborockcoreTechnology or IntegrationSaros Z70 robot patrols HERC hallways with multi-stage cleaning and intelligent robot arm system.
• Insta360coreTechnology or IntegrationMakes incredible portable cameras and 360 cameras enabling capture of action on challenging video shoots.
• CanCam CNCcoreTechnology or IntegrationIndustrial quality CNC lasers, vertical machining centers and CNC routers. Hacksmith uses Cancam Z540 for advanced machining needs.
• MitutoyocoreTechnology or IntegrationInnovative precision measurement solutions such as calipers and gauges offering highest level of quality and precision.
• PCBWaycoreTechnology or IntegrationHelps with industrial 3D printing, PCB manufacturing, and production challenges.
• OdoocoreTechnology or IntegrationBroad suite of business software for CRM, eCommerce, accounting, inventory, projects. Hacksmith manages all work in their Projects app.
• Oransi Air FilterscoreTechnology or IntegrationStylish and powerful air filters keep air clean at Hacksmith HQ - one in practically every room.
• ArcdroidcoreTechnology or IntegrationMakes powerful, portable, and affordable plasma CNC cutters enabling access to cutting technology for tough metals in desktop or small shop environments.
• VoxelPLAcoreTechnology or IntegrationCreates strong reliable filaments and accessories for 3D printers, including filter add-ons for Bambu printers at Hacksmith HQ.
• Createx ColorscoreTechnology or IntegrationHigh quality airbrush paints and coatings for delivering cinema-grade finish to custom models, 3D prints, and parts.
• Princess AutocoreTechnology or IntegrationFeatured brand partner for tools and equipment.
• Kingsman The Golden CirclecoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured entertainment brand partner.
• The Walking Dead No Man's LandcoreGTM or Marketing PartnerFeatured gaming/entertainment brand partner.

Scale indicators20 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Mark Rober: Engineer-turned-YouTube creator producing large-scale science/engineering builds with comparable brand sponsorship model and multimillion subscriber audience. Closest peer by combination of maker identity, audience scale, and corporate partnership monetization.
• Adam Savage / Tested: Mythbusters personality turned creator/maker company with subscription memberships, premium content, event tours (SAVAGEwasmythbusters MythBusters-branded shows), sponsorships, and merchandise — analogous combination of fabrication, IP, and fan-driven monetization.
• Colin Furze: UK-based YouTube maker/inventor building extreme real-world inventions in a home workshop. Closely comparable creator identity, fictional-inspired prototyping output, and audience demographic (engineering/maker fans).
• Veritasium (Derek Muller): High-quality science/engineering YouTube channel with similar audience demographic and brand-sponsorship-driven revenue, though with lower fabrication focus.
• James Bruton: Robotics-focused YouTube maker with extensive 3D-printing/electronics builds. Overlaps directly in fabrication method, STEM audience, and sponsored-brand engagement.
• Stuff Made Here (James Turner): YouTube creator focused on fabricating real, functional versions of fictional/engineering concepts. Very comparable product (sci-fi-inspired prototype fabrication videos), audience (engineering enthusiasts), and business model (YouTube ad + sponsorship).
• William Osman: YouTube maker focused on wild engineering builds with similar maker personality and YouTube-first business model. Comparable in output style (chaotic engineering builds) and creator-led structure.
• Simone Giertz: YouTube maker/builder famous for deliberately imperfect-but-real inventions and later for hardware products. Shares the YouTube-makemover-into-prototype play and similar mid-tier audience scale.
• SmarterEveryDay (Destin Sandlin): Engineering/science YouTube creator with comparable scale of subscribers and brand-sponsorship-driven revenue, plus deep technical builds; broader science remit but overlapping audience and monetization model.

Broad incumbents

• MrBeast (Beast Industries): Larger creator-led company with packaged physical builds, massive sponsorships, consumer products, and global YouTube audience — comparable business-model layer (content → sponsor + product → team-scale media co), though at materially larger scale.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks7 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/c/TheHacksmith
• Facebookfacebook.com/thehacksmith
• TikToktiktok.com/channel/hacksmith
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/hacksmith-entertainment-ltd

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles6 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about HACKSMITH MANUFACTURING LTD.