Hand-Forged Viking Spring Scissors with Sheath

Hand-Forged Viking Spring Scissors with Sheath

Design and Construction

The scissors are precisely forged from a single piece of spring steel. Their construction lacks the central pivot screw found on modern scissors. The cutting principle relies on the material's elasticity—you squeeze the blades together to make a cut, and the natural tension of the steel reopens them upon release. This makes using them quick and efficient, especially for snipping threads or light fabrics. The entire surface is treated with a black lacquer, which gives the scissors a period look while also protecting them from corrosion. The included simple yet practical genuine leather sheath protects the sharp blades.

Practical Use and Historical Context

Spring scissors are an indispensable tool for any historical encampment, crafting activity, or as part of your garb. You will find them useful for sewing, embroidery, cutting fabrics, threads, leather cords, or even for gathering herbs. They are an excellent accessory for Viking, Anglo-Saxon, or any early medieval persona in reenactment and LARP.

A Point of History

This type of scissor, often called a shear or snip, is one of the oldest cutting tools, with a design that predates modern pivoted scissors by thousands of years. Archaeological finds confirm their use as far back as the Roman Empire, and they remained common throughout the Viking Age and into the late Middle Ages. They were a standard part of household equipment and are found in both male and female graves. They served a wide range of tasks from personal grooming to textile production and small crafts, attesting to their incredible versatility.

Care Instructions

To ensure your scissors last as long as possible, give them the proper care:

• Scissors: Always wipe them dry after use, especially after cutting damp materials. It's a good practice to occasionally apply a light coat of oil (mineral or cooking oil) to the cutting edges to prevent rust. Never wash the scissors in a dishwasher or leave them in a damp environment.
• Sheath: Keep the leather dry. Remove heavy dirt with a brush. If the leather becomes stiff over time, treat it with a wax or oil-based leather conditioner.

Specifications