Rhenen Francisca: 5th Century Merovingian Throwing Axe

Rhenen Francisca: 5th Century Merovingian Throwing Axe

The Dreaded Weapon of the Franks

The Francisca is characterized by its typical S-shaped top edge and a distinctly curved blade that widens towards the cutting edge. This design was not accidental. When thrown, the axe rotates, and due to its shape, it had a tendency to bounce in unpredictable directions even if the handle hit first, causing chaos in enemy lines before the melee even began. Today, you can use it primarily for recreational target throwing or as a stylish accessory for an Early Middle Ages costume.

We offer two versions for you to choose from. If you are looking only for a wall decoration or a costume accessory that will not be thrown, choose the version made of mild steel. For active throwing and practical use, it is essential to select the version made of hardened spring steel (54SiCr6), which withstands impact much better.

Maintenance and Care

To ensure the Francisca serves you well for a long time, it requires regular care. The steel parts must be protected from corrosion. Wipe the axe dry after each use and oil it (WD-40 or gun oil works well). The wooden handle deserves treatment with linseed oil or beeswax, which will extend its lifespan and highlight the wood grain. Store it in a dry place.

Safety and Warnings

This axe has a sharp edge! Exercise extreme caution when handling it. If you decide to use the axe for throwing, always ensure that no people or animals are in the target area or its surroundings. This is a weapon, not a toy. Throwing should only be performed on designated ranges or safe private property into soft wooden targets.

Important Warranty Disclaimer: Axe throwing places extreme stress on the material. The critical moment is the abrupt stop of the axe in the target. Despite the use of high-quality steel and hardening, breakage cannot be ruled out in the event of a bad throw or hitting a hard spot (knots, other axes in the target). For this reason, this axe is sold exclusively without warranty on steel breakage and handle breakage. The warranty covers only demonstrable material defects (visible flaws in the fracture structure). A broken handle is considered a consumable item for throwing axes – replacement shafts made of ash or beech can be easily purchased at hardware stores and fitted yourself.

Technical Specifications

For a complete Frankish warrior kit, we recommend adding a high-quality leather belt frog for the axe.