During the Viking age, axes played an important role in everyday life. They were used for cutting and splitting wood, processing food, and even building houses.
They were also used as weapons Viking shields during wars. As a result, there was an enormous variety in the size of viking axes.
The shaft
The shaft of a Viking axe was typically long, with the head positioned just above the hand. During the Viking Age, this was the preferred form of a weapon because it was less expensive than a sword and also served as a useful tool to help with digging and cutting wood.
The most common shaft length for the axes of this period was between 60 and 90 cm (mainly 70-80 cm), but there are several examples of shafts that are longer than that. The longest example is a two-handed type from Behren-Lubchin, Lednica, which measures 94 cm.
Axe shafts were made from a variety of different types of wood. The most common species was maple, but birch, linden, alder and elm were also used.
In some cases, the axe shaft was decorated with a ferrule or wedges. These were sometimes secured with metal fittings. However, wooden wedges are much more common; for instance, three axes from Lough Corrib have a wedge nailed to the end of the shaft, while one axe from Hallingby has a wooden wedge as well.
During the Viking Age, there were many different ways to decorate the shaft of an axe. Some of them were decorative in a more ornate manner, while others were simply functional and acted as a means to hold the axe head on the shaft.
One of the most popular types of axe decorations was the "Fri" decoration. This style of decoration was very popular in Sweden during the Viking Age, and it has been found on a large number of axes from the region.
Another type of axe decoration is the "Danes" style. This style of axe was very popular among the Danish Vikings, and it features a thinner blade than the typical Scandinavian axe. It was forged very thin, and it often had a reinforced bit near the edge to facilitate a sharper and harder cutting surface.
These axes were quite a large weapon, with an average weight of 1 to 2 kg. They were heavy enough to wield with both hands, and they had a strong cutting ability.
The head
Vikings often used axes for combat, but they also used them for farming and daily tasks. A good axe made life easier and safer, as it could cut through branches without bending or breaking them. A good axe also protected the user’s hands, and it was not easy for an opponent to get hold of the haft.
Axes were forged from iron, usually with a flat back (hammer head), and a blade that was thicker than the hammer head. They were heat treated and tempered, which improves their hardness and reduces their brittleness.
There were many different types of axes during the Viking Age, and they all had their own distinct features. Some axes were shaped like an eagle or a ram, while others had horns at the head and one or more spurs on each side. They were sometimes carved with elaborate designs and were often decorated with runes.
The size of the head of an axe can range from 7 to 15cm (3-6in) in length, but there were also some axes that were much larger than this. These were called breid-ox axes, and they had crescent-shaped edges that ranged from 22 to 45cm (9-18in) long.
These axes were mainly used for warfare, as they had large blades that could hack at an enemy from a safe distance. They were normally three to five feet long and were more maneuverable than hand axes, which could be held in both hands.
They were also more difficult to disarm, as they were designed to hook the edge of a shield or weapon, giving them an advantage in battle. This technique was described in the Sturlu saga (ch. 22), where Thorsteinn hooked one of his opponents and pulled him over to a better position where he could be stabbed.
Axes were also used for other tasks, as they could be gripped directly behind the head, making it easier to plan or shave wood with a single hand. Some axes were even fitted with sheaths, which helped protect the axe from damage when not in use.
The handle
Viking axes were a key part of everyday life for the people of Scandinavia. In addition to being a weapon, they were also essential tools for chopping wood and farming. They were sturdy, dependable, and easy to transport. They were also a great choice for warriors who wanted a large and sharp battle-ready axe.
The handle of a viking axe was usually made of wood. However, it could be made of metal as well. The handle was important because it helped the axe hold its shape and prevent it from breaking. It also allowed for better gripping and control of the blade. It was often curved or rounded, so it was easier to pick up and use.
A curved axe handle helps the axe to be controlled by the hand and can make it more effective for fighting. It also allows for the axe to be carried in a more natural position, reducing strain on the wrist and arm.
Some Viking axes were designed with a curved haft. This can help the axe be used as a hook to pull the edge of a shield away or to disarm an opponent. A curved haft can also minimize the risk of breaking when it is used to deflect blows from an edged weapon like a sword.
Another common way to add a decorative touch to a Viking axe was through engravings. These were done either through acid etching or by traditional engraving methods. Using these methods, it was possible to create intricate designs and patterns on the axe head and handle.
In addition to adding decorative touches, a lot of Viking axes were also decorated with runes and other symbols. These runes were believed to have magical properties and were added to the axes as a form of protection against harm.
These axes were used for many different tasks, but they all had one thing in common: they were very powerful weapons that could cut, slash, and chop with deadly force. They were a must-have for Vikings because they helped them survive in the forests and snowy regions of their homelands.
The grip
The axe was a common weapon of the Vikings. From small throwing axes to the mighty Danish axe, they were versatile and capable of cleaving helms or armour.
They were also a formidable weapon, able to cut through bones and skulls with ease and could also disarm an opponent. The axe had a curved edge that concentrated the force of blows, allowing it to cleave through armour and helmets.
It was a very effective weapon that allowed the Vikings to strike fear into their enemies. The axe was used in every aspect of Viking warfare, from hunting to battle to raids and sieges.
A typical viking axe was forged thin and used a higher carbon steel near the blade for a hard, sharp edge. This made it lighter and more agile than a wood axe, while retaining a high level of cutting power.
Many axes had a curved haft that helped maximize the transfer of energy from the wielder to the edge. This curve was also used for defense, to deflect blows from the opponent. This sometimes caused the haft to break, but it was less likely if it was covered with metal.
These axes were made by blacksmiths, and it took them a long time to make them. It was a very hard and demanding job that required a lot of time and effort.
However, if you are looking for a replica viking axe without the hassle of making it yourself, we offer custom made axes in a variety of styles and designs. You can find them in our Viking weapons section, where they are available as a medieval weapon or a prop for your next viking cosplay costume.
They were a dangerous weapon and a lot of people lost their lives fighting with them. That is why they were considered to be a "battle ready" weapon, and it is important that they are properly maintained.
It is a good idea to use a lubricant on the axe's haft and head. This will help them to last longer and be more durable.