Forged Viking Sword Hvati for Stage Combat, Class B

Forged Viking Sword Hvati for Stage Combat, Spring Steel

Sword class B

Historical Context and Typology

The shape of the Hvati sword corresponds to weapons used by Viking warriors from Northern Europe during the turbulent period from the 9th to the 11th century. An interesting fact from early medieval history is that the blades themselves were very often forged in Frankish or Germanic territories and were only imported to the harsh North as highly valued commodities. Only then did skilled local craftsmen fit them with typical massive hilts. The pommel of this sword, with its distinctive lobes, visually refers to the Petersen typology (approaching Type O), which was popular in the 10th century. The stamped crescent moon decoration on the crossguard and the base of the pommel gives the weapon an authentic hallmark of period craftsmanship.

Weapon Construction and Materials

The entire weapon is designed with maximum resilience in mind. The blade is forged and ground from excellent ČSN 14260 spring steel, which is subsequently hardened and tempered to a hardness of 52-54 HRC. A wide fuller runs almost the entire length of the blade, significantly reducing weight and improving flexibility. The massive crossguard and the lobed pommel are made of cast or forged steel. The hilt consists of the sturdy blade tang, which is firmly encased in wood and precisely wrapped in robust brown leather with transverse ribbing, guaranteeing you a firm, non-slip grip even while wearing a leather glove.

Safe Fencing Principles and Maintenance

The weapon falls into Class B for stage combat. For safety reasons, its striking edges are 2-3 mm (approx. 0.08 - 0.12 in) thick, and the tip of the blade is safely rounded. The sword is fully suitable for contact stage fencing and historical reenactment battles. However, for it to serve you as long as possible, remember proper fencing technique: try to parry all of your opponent's strikes with the flat side of the blade and strictly avoid hard edge-on-edge impacts. Deliver cuts with control and without excessive force. Any steel sword can be destroyed by unreasonable handling.

Nicks on the edge are a natural symptom of wear and tear. Before every training session or battle, inspect the blade carefully and smooth out any sharp burrs with a diamond file or sandpaper so as not to endanger yourself or your opponent. During active use, the crossguard may loosen due to heavy impacts. This is a common occurrence with historically accurate weapons. In such a case, the pommel must be re-peened. As a quick temporary solution, many fencers have found success filling the gap with strong fishing line.

The blade is not made of stainless steel. After every use, wipe it dry and protect it with a suitable gun oil or Renaissance Wax. Treat the leather handle occasionally with a beeswax-based leather balm.

Recommended Accessories

With this sword, we highly recommend purchasing a quality leather scabbard for safe transport, a sturdy leather belt with Viking brass fittings, and, of course, thick padded or leather fencing gloves to protect your hands.

Technical Parameters of the Hvati Sword

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