Early Medieval Two-Handed Dane Axe
Are you looking for a massive, awe-inspiring weapon to visually dominate any early medieval battlefield? We have prepared this forged Dane axe for you, which absolutely perfectly embodies the relentless power of Norse warriors and Anglo-Saxon housecarls. With an impressive overall length of 85.5 cm (33.66 inches) and a solid weight of 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs), you receive a true piece of blacksmithing history in your hands. Its broad blade, crafted from high-quality carbon steel, bears the raw marks of manual forging, while the long wooden shaft is decorated with magical Norse runes and woven cowhide leather, guaranteeing an absolutely firm grip. Whether you are a passionate collector, building the ultimate Viking costume, or seeking the perfect decoration for your study, this piece will add the true Norse spark to your gear. Further product information ...
Forged Early Medieval Two-Handed Dane Axe with Carved Runes
History and Usage of the Two-Handed Axe
The Dane axe was one of the most feared weapons in Europe during the 10th and 11th centuries. While common warriors carried smaller one-handed axes in combination with a shield, the long Dane axe was the weapon of elite fighters. It required a two-handed grip and, thanks to the long shaft, offered tremendous kinetic energy that could effortlessly pierce chainmail armor, split a shield, or knock a rider off a horse. Historical originals featured a very thin blade cross-section to make the weapon as light and fast as possible—and this replica honors exactly that detail, as the thickness of its edge is a mere 0.6 mm (0.02 inches).
Construction and Crucial Safety Warning
The axe head is honestly forged from carbon steel, and its surface is intentionally left in a dark, raw state. The upper part of the wooden shaft is protected by a criss-cross wrapping made of genuine cowhide, while the lower grip section is solidly wrapped in leather for maximum security. At the very bottom, you will find a carved runic inscription. For safety reasons, however, we must issue a very strong warning: due to the thin edge measuring approx. 0.6 mm, this axe is under no circumstances intended for contact Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA, buhurt), stage battles, or LARP! The steel edge would cause fatal injuries in a clash with a partner, and upon impact with another weapon, the thin blade would immediately chip. The axe is designed primarily as a premium decoration, a costume accessory, or a tool for non-contact solo technique practice.
Technical Specifications of the Dane Axe
| Blade / Head Material | Carbon steel |
| Shaft Material | Natural wood |
| Wrapping and Binding | Genuine cowhide leather |
| Decoration | Carved runic inscription |
| Edge Thickness | approx. 0.6 mm / 0.02 inches (sharpened) |
| Overall Length | 85.5 cm (33.66 inches) |
| Weapon Weight | 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs) |
Care for Steel, Wood, and Leather
To ensure your weapon retains its gorgeous historical appearance, basic care is essential. Carbon steel is highly susceptible to atmospheric moisture and rust. After every touch or outdoor use, carefully wipe the blade completely dry and preserve it with a thin layer of gun or natural oil. We highly recommend occasionally treating the wooden shaft with the carved runes using pure linseed oil, which nourishes the wood and prevents it from cracking. The extensive leather wrapping is best maintained with a high-quality beeswax leather balm, which will keep the leather firm yet supple and prevent it from crumbling over time.
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