Dane Axe, Bearded Axe with Perforated Blade, 8-11 cen.

This is a replica of a Viking axe, specifically of a type called a "Dane axe" or "bearded axe". Originals of these axes date back to the Viking expansion period, roughly from the 8th to the 11th century AD. As for the place of origin, Viking axes were used throughout Scandinavia and the areas that the Vikings occupied, including the British Isles, Ireland, Iceland, Greenland, and even North America. More information...

€60,00
€60,00 excl. VAT
In stock 10 pcs
Item physically stored in our Warehouse in Kadan
, dispatch on: Tomorrow 19-Feb-2025
SKU: LB_60702-Ash

Dane Axe, Bearded Axe with Perforated Blade, 8th-11th century

  • Weight approx. 740 g
  • Total length 61 cm
  • Length of shaft 58 cm
  • Blade length 17 cm
  • Thickness of striking edge approx. 2.5 mm
  • Handle made of ash

Dane axes were popular for their versatility. They were used both for combat and for everyday tasks such as felling trees or carpentry. They are characterised by a wide blade with a curved shape, reminiscent of a beard, and a relatively long haft.

Why does the axe have a perforated blade?

There is no clear and universally accepted answer to this. There are several theories and speculations about its purpose, but none of them have been proven with certainty. Here are some of the most common assumptions:

  • Weight reduction: The holes in the blade may have been used to reduce the overall weight of the axe, thus improving its manageability and speed in combat. A lighter axe could be used more easily and for longer.
  • Increasing strength: Paradoxically, the holes in the blade may have increased its resistance and flexural strength. A similar principle is used in modern construction, for example in some bridge designs.
  • Aesthetic element: The holes could have been a purely decorative element that made the axe more attractive and distinguished it from others. The Vikings placed a high value on the decoration of weapons.
  • Symbolic meaning: Some researchers suspect that the holes may have had a symbolic meaning, such as a connection to the gods or mythology. However, this theory is based more on speculation and there is no direct evidence for it.
  • Practical handle: There is also the theory that the holes may have served to provide a better grip on the axe in certain situations, such as when fighting in confined spaces.

It is important to emphasise that these are only theories and the actual purpose of the holes in the blade of the Viking axe remains a mystery. Perhaps they served several functions at once or had a different purpose that we are unaware of today.

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