Viking weapons

Viking weapons represent one of the most fascinating weapon cultures of the early Middle Ages — from hand-forged axes and elegant swords to versatile saxes, which had their place in both everyday life and combat. Here you’ll find a wide selection of historically inspired replicas for re-enactment, exhibition combat and collectors — over 160 items from brands such as Battle Merchant, Lord of Battles and Hanwei, complemented by our own pieces.

Viking Weapons: An Overview

What weapons did the Norse peoples use? The range was broader than many assume: swords, axes, saxes, spears and bows made up the arsenal of a Viking-era warrior — though not every warrior possessed all these weapons. Which weapon one carried depended heavily on social rank and wealth. The sword was regarded as a status symbol and heirloom, passed down from generation to generation. Ordinary warriors often fought with spears and axes, which were cheaper to make and served a dual purpose in everyday life.

The basic materials for these weapons were iron and steel, and in exceptional cases damask steel — a complex process involving the folding and welding of different types of steel, which gave the blade both hardness and flexibility. Archaeological finds from Norway, Sweden, Denmark and the British Isles continue to provide the models for modern replicas to this day. Grave finds reveal not only the weapon itself, but also scabbards, fittings and decorations made of silver or brass — evidence that Viking-era armourers mastered their craft to the highest standard.

Viking axes: From the beard axe to the Danish axe

The Viking axe is arguably the most iconic image from the Viking Age — and indeed, it was the most widespread weapon of that era. Two types stand out in particular: the bar axe and the Danish axe.

The bar axe got its name from the characteristic, downward-curving axe beard, which gave it a sickle-shaped cutting edge. This shape made it possible to hook opponents, tear away shields or deliver precise blows — a versatile close-combat weapon. The Danish axe, on the other hand, was a two-handed weapon with a broad, crescent-shaped blade, which was particularly widespread in the 10th and 11th centuries. Warriors armed with it — often referred to as berserkers — were considered particularly dangerous in the heat of battle.

The range also includes the Franziska throwing axe, a historical replica from the Early Middle Ages, originally used by Frankish warriors and later incorporated into Viking weaponry. The Mammen axe is regarded as the archaeological model for particularly elaborate axes; a Danish find from the 10th century, it was inlaid with silver wire and is today considered one of the finest examples of Viking-era craftsmanship.

In our range, you’ll find medieval axes in a price range from approx. €17 to €60, from simple hatchet-style designs to intricately crafted throwing axe replicas with leather sheaths.

Viking Sax and Sax knife: The all-purpose tool

The Viking sax was far more than a weapon — it was the most important tool of everyday life in the Viking Age. Whether carving, eating, hunting or fighting: the sax accompanied its bearer everywhere. There were clearly distinct types.

The short sax, with a blade length of around 15–30 cm, served primarily as an all-purpose tool and kitchen implement. The scrama sax — also known as the scramaseax — falls into the mid-range with a blade length of 30–50 cm and was the classic weapon of ordinary warriors. The long sax, with a blade of up to 60 cm, was similar to a sword and could completely replace it in battle.

Typical handle materials from the Viking Age were bone, horn and wood, often decorated with brass rivets or fittings. Archaeological examples include the Sax of Beagnoth, an Anglo-Saxon find from the 9th century featuring one of the longest known runic inscriptions, as well as numerous sax finds from Gotland, which are notable for their brass-fitted scabbards. In our range, the price for saxes is approximately €50 to €85, often including a matching leather scabbard.

Which weapon for which purpose? Re-enactment, exhibition combat and collectors

For beginners, we recommend starting with a throwing axe or a simple sax — both weapon types are affordable, historically accurate and approved for many event formats. Those specifically equipping themselves for exhibition combat should look for the designated SK-B or SK-A marking, which is indicated directly on the product within the range.

Viking weapons by price range

Complete Viking equipment: What does it include?

What is typical of Vikings — beyond the weapon? The equipment of a Viking-era warrior consisted of far more than just a sword and an axe. For protection, warriors wore, depending on their rank and wealth, a Viking helmet, a chainmail shirt made of riveted iron rings, and a round wooden shield with an iron boss.

Typical Viking clothing consisted of a woollen or linen tunic, long trousers — often made of woollen fabric — and a woollen cloak fastened with a brooch. Leather shoes with simple soles completed the look. Everyday accessories included a Viking belt, a belt pouch for personal items and a Viking knife on the belt — which served equally well for eating, craftsmanship and self-defence.

Additions such as a drinking horn for mead or beer and an axe holder for securely fastening the axe to the belt round off the kit. Those wishing to complete their overall look will find suitable combinations in the Viking outfit section.

Viking swords: types and historical models

The Viking-era sword is one of the best-documented weapons of the early Middle Ages. In the 1920s, archaeologist Jan Petersen developed a classification system — the so-called Petersen typology — which divides Viking swords into over 20 types based on their hilt shapes. These types differ in the design of the pommel, crossguard and grip and reflect regional and temporal variations.

The most famous sword of the Viking Age is the Ulfberht sword, recognisable by the engraved inscription “+VLFBERHT+”. These blades were forged from exceptionally pure steel — a crucible steel whose quality was virtually unattainable in Europe at the time. Ulfberht swords were considered luxury items and were accessible only to wealthy warriors.

When purchasing from our range, suitability for display combat is the most important criterion: SK-B denotes weapons for light display combat with controlled strikes, whilst SK-A stands for more intensive display combat use with higher demands on material strength and workmanship. Early medieval and Viking swords in the range vary from entry-level models starting at around €50 up to Tinker swords with a scabbard for around €655. The matching leather scabbard is included in the delivery for many models.

Those wishing to use their sword as part of a complete Viking armour set with a shield will also find a wide selection here.

Care and storage of Viking weapons

Steel is more delicate than many buyers expect: after each use, the blade should be wiped with a clean cloth and rubbed lightly with a neutral oil — such as camellia oil or weapon oil. This prevents rust spots, which form quickly when stored in a damp environment. Leather scabbards should be stored in a dry place away from direct light; dry leather can be treated with a suitable leather grease to prevent cracking. Wooden handles tend to shrink in dry heat — rubbing them occasionally with linseed oil keeps the wood supple and prevents cracks in the grip area.

Conclusion: Whether you’re looking for your first throwing axe for the next medieval festival or a sword suitable for stage combat for re-enactment use — our range features over 160 Viking weapon items to suit every need and budget.

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