Viking Sword Ketill, 10th cen., Jutland, Class B

Viking Sword "Ketill" – Museum Replica of a Jutland Find (Petersen Type Z)

Sword class B

Key Specifications of the "Ketill" Viking Sword

• Overall Length: 83 cm (approx. 32.7 in)
• Blade Length: 66.4 cm (approx. 26.1 in)
• Guard Length: 9 cm (approx. 3.5 in)
• Grip Length (actual grip area): 11 cm (approx. 4.3 in)
• Fuller Length: 42 cm (approx. 16.5 in)
• Blade Width at Guard: 46 mm (approx. 1.8 in)
• Blade Width 10 cm from Tip: 32.5 mm (approx. 1.28 in)
• Point of Balance (blunt version, measured from the guard): 10 cm (approx. 3.9 in)
• Weight: 1480 g (approx. 3.26 lbs)

Appearance and Construction: Detail-Rich Craftsmanship by Pavel Leier

The sword has an overall length of 83 cm, with a blade length of 66.4 cm. The blade is straight, double-edged, typically broad, and features a distinct 42 cm long fuller. It is crafted from ČSN 14260 spring steel and oil-hardened to approximately 47 HRC – a proven process by Pavel Leier that guarantees quality and durability. The hilt is faithful to its Viking Age original: the short, straight brass guard, 9 cm in length, is decorated. The 11 cm long grip, designed for single-handed use, consists of a wooden core over the tang, covered with high-quality dark brown cowhide leather, and reinforced with a striking spiral wrap of twisted brass wire. The most characteristic element is the richly decorated brass pommel of Petersen Type Z. It consists of an arc-shaped lower part (base) and an upper, three- or five-lobed part, which is also decorated, completing the luxurious appearance of a weapon fit for a distinguished warrior. The sword's weight is 1480 g. Every detail, from the forging of the blade to the final decoration of the hilt, reflects the meticulous work and years of experience of blacksmith Pavel Leier.

Historical Classification: A 10th Century Viking Age Sword

As mentioned, this is a replica of a 10th-century Viking sword, classified as Petersen Type Z. This type is characterized by its complex, multi-part, and often richly decorated pommel, frequently using precious metals or their alloys for inlays and wrappings. These swords, as evidenced by the quality of replicas from Pavel Leier's workshop, were among the pinnacle products of swordsmithing in their era.

Variants and Usage: From Collector's Piece to Re-enactment Sword

You can order the "Ketill" sword in two variants:

• Sharp Variant: Perfect for collectors, as part of "living history" displays, for museum exhibitions, or as a highly authentic decorative piece.
• Blunt Variant (Class B): With an edge thickness of 2-3 mm and a rounded tip, this version is suitable for contact combat within Viking re-enactment, for practicing period combat techniques, or for use in film and theatre. The point of balance is located approximately 10 cm from the guard for good handling.

Safety Guidelines and Care for Your Viking Sword

Remember the following when using and maintaining your sword:

• Any use of the sword, especially in combat, is entirely at your own risk.
• Store the sword safely, out of reach of children.
• The blade, made of ČSN 14260 carbon steel, is not stainless. After each use, especially after contact with bare hands or moisture, clean it thoroughly, dry it, and apply a protective oil. Decorated brass parts of the hilt may require specific care depending on the materials used.
• When engaging in combat, parry blows with the flat of the blade, not edge-on-edge, to minimize wear.
• Regularly inspect the condition of the sword, particularly the tightness of all hilt components and the integrity of the blade.

The Viking sword "Ketill" from the workshop of master blacksmith Pavel Leier is more than just a weapon – it is a piece of history that allows you to touch the age of legendary Norse warriors. Its faithful reproduction based on a museum original, high-quality materials, and honest Czech craftsmanship, backed by decades of experience, make it an excellent choice for any enthusiast of the Viking Age.

Please also read our: Guide to Using Edged Weapons.

Please read our: Directions for the use of bladed weapons.