Hand-Forged Viking Axe | 9th Century Bearded Hand Axe

Hand-Forged Viking Axe | 9th Century Bearded Hand Axe

The Rugged Beauty of the North: Appearance and Construction

The first thing you'll notice is the hand-forged head, crafted from robust mild steel. Its surface bears the intentional marks of the hammer, giving it a raw, battle-worn look. The shape of the head, with its extended lower portion known as the "beard" (Skeggox), is typical of Viking axes. This design wasn't just for show; it offered better hand protection and was useful for hooking an opponent's shield. The surface is further adorned with simple yet elegant stamped triangular patterns, a testament to the smith's skill.

The head is firmly and reliably mounted on a haft made from high-quality, hard ash wood. Due to its flexibility and strength, ash was the most popular choice for hafts throughout Europe. The haft has an ergonomic oval cross-section, ensuring it fits perfectly in the hand and provides a secure grip.

A Versatile Companion: How Can You Use It?

This axe is more than just a weapon. You can use it as:

• A Costume Component: An essential accessory for any Viking at living history events, LARP, or historical festivals.
• A Collector's Item: Expand your collection with a beautiful example of Norse craftsmanship.
• A Stylish Decoration: Hang it on the wall in your study, workshop, or den to add a touch of character.
• A Light Camping Tool: It's perfectly suited for preparing kindling and chopping smaller firewood.

A Glimpse into History: The Viking's Best Friend

While swords were an expensive status symbol, the axe was a universal tool and weapon available to everyone – from farmer to jarl. It was indispensable for building ships, homes, and for everyday life. In battle, the one-handed axe was a feared and versatile weapon. In its form, this replica corresponds to Petersen's Type A or B typology, commonly used in the 9th and 10th centuries.

An Interesting Historical Fact

Did you know that in archaeological finds from Viking graves, axes are found far more frequently than swords? This proves their immense prevalence and importance in Viking society. It wasn't just a weapon; it was a symbol of identity and self-reliance.

Technical Specifications

How to Care for Your Axe

To ensure your axe serves you for a long time and retains its beauty, give it a little care. The carbon steel head is not stainless. Always clean and dry it after use. Regularly coat it with a thin layer of oil (e.g., Ballistol, WD-40) to prevent rust. You can occasionally treat the ash wood haft with linseed oil to prevent it from drying out.

Principles of Safe Use

Although this is a replica, it is a fully functional tool. Always handle it with respect and caution.

• Before use, always check that the axe head is firmly seated on the haft.
• When chopping, ensure you have a safe space and a firm stance. Never chop towards your legs.
• The edge is functional. Be careful during handling and cleaning to avoid cuts.
• Do not store the axe in a damp place and keep it out of the reach of children.
• Disclaimer: We sell this product as a weapon and tool replica. It is not intended for combat or heavy-duty work (splitting large logs), and such use is not covered by the warranty.