Axes were the primary weapons for Vikings, even in close combat. Their sharp axe head could hook an opponent’s weapon or shield, disarming them and leaving them open for a strike. The axe was also a daily tool for hunting, wood splitting and other chores. This familiarity made the axe reliable and trusted in battle.

Blade

The blade of a Viking axe was designed for use in both everyday tasks and deadly combat. It was hammered out with little or no obstructions, which resulted in an extremely sharp blade. The axe was also less expensive and easier to produce than swords, which contributed to its popularity among Viking warriors. The axe is a formidable weapon in hand-to-hand combat, capable of splitting skulls or striking deep wounds. It could also be used as a throwing weapon to damage an enemy's shield.

The axe is an important symbol of the Viking Age. It represents the spirit of exploration, adventure, and the desire to challenge boundaries. It continues to serve as a powerful symbol of strength and courage in the modern world. Viking axes are often used in history and heritage sites, as well as for historical reenactments. In addition, they are popular with outdoor enthusiasts and campers. The axe is an iconic weapon that will never go out of style.

Handle

The handle of a Viking axe is made from wood and carved with decorative runes. It is also coated with oil to protect the wood from shrinking and cracking. In addition, the coating helps the axe to grip wood better and provides a smoother cut. The axe head is attached to the handle using a wedge. This method is more secure than other methods, and the axe is less likely to lose its head. The axe head is also symmetrical and has little curvature, so it can be used for both fighting and work.

Above the end knob of the handle, the haft curves back slightly, creating the “Throat”. This is where you would grip the axe while swinging it. It’s a good spot to hold the axe for power, but not accuracy. The rest of the haft is rounded and forms the “Belly”. This part of the handle allows you to control the axe more effectively.

Axe Head

Designed to strike deep into an opponent’s skull, the curved edge of an axe concentrates all the force of the blow into a small section of the head, making it powerful enough to break or crack helmets and mail. The sagas mention many axe blows that cleaved an opponent’s head down to his shoulders. The axe head, also called the eye, has a slight asymmetrical bias towards the toe, and is tapered so it will fit tightly onto the shaft. This prevents the axe head from flying off the end of the shaft and striking an unprotected bystander in the face, which would cut major blood vessels in the brain and result in rapid exsanguination and death.

Our axes are hand-forged from high-quality, hardened 52100 steel and feature intricate head designs that celebrate the Viking culture and artistry. They’re a perfect blend of functionality and historical allure, ideal for campers, historical reenactors and anyone who appreciates the beauty of traditional craftsmanship.

Sheath

Axe sheaths were made of leather, and they protected the axe from damage. They also prevented accidental damage to belts and fittings by a sharp blade. Sheaths could be pinned to the haft or sewn to it. They were designed to hold the axe head in place while allowing it some movement, such as when aiming at an opponent. The curved edge of an axe concentrated the force of blows into a small area, making them powerful enough to punch through helmets and mail. Axes were often used for stab attacks and to hook over other body parts, such as the neck, to draw an opponent away. A speculative reconstruction of this move is shown in this Viking combat demonstration video.

Two axe sheaths have been found in Norway, one from Voll and the other from Horstad (Hilberg 2022: 107; Saggau 2006: 264; Abb. 44: 14). The sheath from Voll has a 235 mm long slit that corresponds to Petersen type M axes, and Hilberg and Kainov interpret it as a sheath for a two handed axe.

Conclusion

Few Viking weapons are as evocative or feared as the axe. The axe was the tool of choice in battle and on raids. It was used to cleave heads and armor, but also to hammer and pound. It was a symbol of power and honor. Warriors would wear it with the Valknut symbol, seeking Odin's strength and protection in both everyday life and battle.