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Ashdown Viking Sword, 9th cen.
Imagine the roar of battle, the clash of shield walls, and the courage of a young prince standing against ruthless invaders. The early medieval Ashdown Viking Sword transports you straight back to the turbulent 9th century. We recommend this finely crafted replica of a single-handed Viking Age sword, featuring an extra-wide fuller, an ergonomically ribbed leather grip, and a lavishly decorated crossguard with raised knotwork relief. Complete with a period wooden scabbard wrapped in genuine leather with an integrated belt, this piece is the ultimate centerpiece for your collection or living history ensemble. Further product information ...
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Early Medieval Ashdown Viking Sword with Scabbard and Belt
History and Construction of the 9th Century Sword
This sword represents a classic early medieval sidearm from the 9th century, forming the backbone of weaponry during the Viking Age. Based on historical Carolingian and Nordic designs (Petersen typology), the blade is forged from high carbon steel. It features a distinctive, extra-wide fuller running down its center, which significantly reduces overall weight while maintaining bending rigidity for swift and powerful cutting strikes.
The grip features a solid wood core wrapped in soft brown leather with raised ridges for a comfortable, positive hold. The crossguard and five-lobed pommel are adorned with raised knotwork relief patterns typical of Insular and Norse art styles. Both guard and pommel feature a darkened forge finish. At the end of the pommel, the peened tang of the blade is clearly visible, reflecting authentic historical construction techniques.
Origin of the Name Ashdown and Historical Context
The name Ashdown commemorates the famous Battle of Ashdown in 871 AD. In this pivotal engagement, young Prince Alfred (later known as Alfred the Great) and his brother, King Æthelred of Wessex, led West Saxon forces to a decisive victory against a massive invading Danish Viking army. This sword is named in honor of that crucial victory that helped preserve the Kingdom of Wessex.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value (Metric / Imperial) |
|---|---|
| Weapon Type | Early Medieval Single-Handed Viking Sword |
| Overall Length | approx. 93.2 cm (36.69 in) |
| Blade Length | approx. 78.2 cm (30.79 in) |
| Grip Length (Guard to Pommel) | approx. 10.4 cm (4.09 in) |
| Blade Material | 1080 / 1065 High Carbon Steel |
| Pommel Dimensions | approx. 3.45 cm L x 2.17 cm T x 5.37 cm W (1.36 x 0.85 x 2.11 in) |
| Guard Dimensions | approx. 8.79 cm L x 1.30 cm T x 2.44 cm W (3.46 x 0.51 x 0.96 in) |
| Blade Profile at Guard | approx. 47.5 mm W x 4.34 mm T (1.87 x 0.17 in) |
| Blade Profile 10 cm from Tip | approx. 32.35 mm W x 4.10 mm T (1.27 x 0.16 in) |
| Edge Thickness | approx. 1.5 mm (0.06 in) |
| Point of Balance (POB) | approx. 18.0 cm (7.09 in) from guard |
| Scabbard Material | Wood core wrapped in leather with metal chape and belt |
| Sword Weight | approx. 1200 g (2.65 lbs / 42.33 oz) |
| Scabbard Weight | approx. 580 g (1.28 lbs / 20.46 oz) |
Please note that individual measurements may vary slightly due to handcrafted finishing processes.
Care Instructions and Safety Guidelines
The high carbon steel blade requires regular care to prevent rust. After handling, wipe the blade clean with a soft dry cloth and apply a thin layer of protective mineral oil or gun oil. The leather grip and scabbard wrap should be treated periodically with high-quality leather balm.
Safety Warning: For safety reasons, this sword is sold as a decorative item and collector's replica. Although forged from tempered carbon steel with an unsharpened 1.5 mm edge, it is not intended for HEMA contact fencing, staged combat, or re-enactment battle sparring. Never use this weapon for human-against-human combat to avoid personal injury or damage to the blade.
Recommended Accessories
To build an authentic 9th-century warrior outfit, we recommend pairing this sword with the following accessories:
- Round Viking Shield with Steel Boss: The iconic defensive companion for any 9th-century warrior.
- Padded Gambeson: Essential protective undergarment for chainmail armour.
- Viking Spectacle or Conical Helmet: To complete your early medieval living history kit.
- Protective Oil & Leather Care Kit: To keep carbon steel and leather scabbard in prime condition.
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