Viking One-Handed Axe With Perforated Blade

Lightweight Viking One-Handed Axe With Perforated Blade (8th-11th Century)

Historical Context And The Secret Of The Perforated Blade

Axes with a pronounced beard (so-called skeggøx) were among the basic and most popular equipment of Scandinavian warriors from the British Isles to the Kievan Rus between the 8th and 11th centuries. The lower cutout (the beard) allowed the axe to be gripped just behind the edge for precise carpentry work, but in combat, it served the feared purpose of hooking and pulling down opponents' shields or weapons. While originals with large holes directly in the blade are not entirely common, they have immense justification in re-enactment and stage fencing. They significantly reduce the weight of the weapon, which drastically increases speed and agility during lunges and when pulling the weapon back into guard. At the same time, the lightened axe head puts less strain on the wrist. Aesthetically, this solution gives the weapon an unmistakable, almost ritualistic appearance that is guaranteed to draw attention at any historical event.

Underestimated Axe with Admirable History. What Was it Used For?

Technical Parameters Of The Viking Axe

Recommended Accessories

To go with this fast and light one-handed axe, we highly recommend purchasing a traditional round wooden Viking shield with a metal boss and a practical leather axe frog for your belt, so you always have your weapon safely and quickly at hand.