Forged Bearded Axe Head, Viking & Slavic Type - Outlet

Forged Bearded Axe Head, Viking & Slavic Type

A Blacksmith's Work with Soul

This axe head is an honest piece of craftsmanship. It has been hand-forged from high-carbon steel, ensuring excellent toughness and the ability to hold a sharp edge once hafted. The rustic, dark surface bears the hammer marks that testify to its origin, while the blade itself is prepared for final sharpening according to your needs.

The 'Bradatica' Bearded Design

This type of axe is easily recognizable by its distinctly elongated lower part of the blade, which forms the "beard". This element had a practical application: it allowed for a firm grip just behind the cutting edge for precise work, such as hewing or carving. In combat, the elongated beard could serve as a hook to catch the edge of a shield or an opponent's weapon, turning a simple axe into a tactical tool.

From the Forest to the Battlefield

Thanks to its versatility, this axe head is ideal for a wide range of projects and applications:

• Build Your Own Axe: Mount it on an ash or oak haft and create your own replica weapon that perfectly matches your vision.
• A Reliable Tool: Once hafted, it becomes an excellent companion for bushcraft, historical camping, wood preparation, and other outdoor activities.
• Reenactment and LARP: A finished axe is an indispensable accessory for the costume of a Viking, a Slavic warrior, or any other early medieval combatant.
• A Collector's Artifact: Even on its own, this forged head is a beautiful example of craftsmanship and a great piece for any collection.

A Glimpse into History: The Axe of the North and East

The 'bearded axe' is an archaeologically well-documented tool and weapon whose popularity peaked in the early Middle Ages, from about the 6th to the 11th century. Although most often associated with the Vikings, its use was widespread throughout Northern and Eastern Europe. It was a common part of the equipment not only of Scandinavians but also of the Kievan Rus' and various Slavic and Baltic tribes. Its design was a perfect blend of a tool for everyday woodwork and an effective weapon for both defence and raiding.

Interesting Fact: Carpenter or Warrior?

For many archaeological finds of these axes, it is difficult for historians to determine definitively whether they belonged to a carpenter or a warrior. The truth is often that they belonged to both at the same time. In early medieval societies, the line between a tool and a weapon was very blurred. The axe a man used during the day to build his house or fell trees was the same weapon he would hang next to his bed at night to defend his family. Versatility was the key to survival.

Safety First: Handling and Hafting

Remember, this is a sharp tool made of hard steel. Even without a haft, it must be handled with care.

• The axe head is delivered with a sharpened edge. Handle it carefully to prevent injury.
• When fitting it to a haft, proceed with care. Ensure the head is seated firmly and properly secured (e.g., with a wedge). A loose axe head is extremely dangerous.
• When using the finished axe, always follow standard safety rules for axe handling.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Caring for Your Forged Steel

This head is made of high-carbon steel, which is not stainless and requires basic care.

• Keep the axe head dry and clean.
• After use, or if it has been exposed to moisture, always wipe it dry.
• Regularly conserve it with a thin layer of oil (e.g., Ballistol, mineral, or gun oil) to prevent rust.
• Store it in a dry place.

Technical Specifications

• Material: High-Carbon Steel (not rust-proof)
• Process: Hand-Forged
• Overall Length: approx. 16 cm / 6.3 in.
• Width (at widest point): approx. 12 cm / 4.7 in.
• Weight: approx. 500 g / 1.1 lbs
• Eye (Haft Opening): approx. 3.5 x 2.5 cm / 1.4 x 1 in.
• Edge Thickness: approx. 1 mm
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®