The question of what did Viking axes look like has long intrigued historians. They’re both beautiful and functional, and the various details we know today are fascinating. This article takes a closer look at some of the most common features and characteristics of Viking axe s. Learn about the size, blade profile, engravings, and motifs. Then, make your own Viking axe by following these simple steps!
motifs
The motifs of Viking axes are symbolic in nature. The axe handle is typically made of rosewood, a highly durable wood that offers remarkable stability and resistance. Other motifs include a tree or pagan symbol such as Yggdrasil or a rooster, such as the Gullinkambi. This tree symbolizes a symbol of rebirth, and may represent both Christian and pagan symbols.
Another popular motif is the wolf, which may symbolize the rooster Gullinkambi in Norse mythology. Other common motifs of Viking axes include crosses, birds, and the gods. Some axes even feature runes, which are said to possess magical powers. Throughout the centuries, axes underwent many changes in appearance, from simple pole-arms to weapons used in warfare.
The slain warriors would be buried in Valhalla, an underground hall for the gods. They would be joined by the gods in Ragnarok. Nevertheless, their axes would remain as a symbol of death, as the blade was usually decorated with skulls. In addition, motifs often depict the slain warriors’ gods and familiars. Because of their symbolic significance, motifs are also flexible, allowing for many new interpretations today.
size
There are a few variations on the size and shape of Viking axes. A hammered axe head, for example, is called a “tormodr,” and some of them were very thin and elegant. Some of these axes were meant for splitting skulls, so the thickness of the cross-section was much smaller than that of a regular axe. Here are a few examples of Viking axe heads and their dimensions.
Depending on the Viking age, the size of the axe is critical to determining the type. The larger Viking axes were probably 1.4 meters long, while the smaller ones were probably only 60 or 70 centimeters long. A rounded, single-edged axe is the most common shape, and it was held in one hand along with a shield. Almost all Viking axes were single-sided. The double-sided axe is considered a fantasy design, and is generally considered to be less accurate.
Depending on the Viking era, axes were used to work wood, but they also were used as weapons. A wood axe is particularly effective in close combat, and skilled Vikings could use it to splinter the opponent’s shield. A well-crafted axe could be deadly and pierce shields like paper. If you’re looking for a Viking axe for sale, you’ll find plenty of options on the internet.
blade profile
The Viking axe head is usually thick and wedge-shaped with a hole punched out for the haft using drift. Thinner blades wrapped around the eye and a steel bit was welded to it for an edge. Sometimes the wrap was symmetrical, and in other cases, it was asymmetrical and the weld was forward of the eye. The Vikings also forged the haft from horns, making the head symmetrical.
Axes were usually 1.4m or more in length. Smaller axes were smaller and designed to be held with a shield. The Viking axes have single sided blades, and all of those described in historical sources have single-sided blades. While the blades of the modern Viking axe often have a double-sided design, this is not a historically accurate representation. The symmetrical profile of Viking axes is the preferred one.
Viking axes were also remarkably lightweight. Their thin blade profile made them easy to throw, but their edges were incredibly sharp. Some of these axes were specifically designed for close combat, and were often called “bearded” or “Dane” axes. They were used by the Vikings to cut wood and inflict serious wounds. While Dane axes were favored for heavy-duty chores, they also served as great weapons for assassination.
engravings
Viking axes are beautifully crafted with intricate engravings, including patterns and images of the Norse god Thormodr. Some axes have intricate runes etched on their heads, which were thought to have magical properties. The two main methods of decorating axe heads are acid etching and traditional engraving. Today, the process is easier, thanks to modern tools. These axes are often decorated with symbols such as dragons and phoenixes.
The heads of Viking axes are made of high carbon steel, while the handles are made from rosewood, which offers remarkable stability and durability. The carvings on Viking axes represent heritage, inheritance, individuality, and friendship. A typical rune etched on a Viking axe head is Algiz, which represents elk and symbolizes protection and teamwork. The god Tyr, etched on the other head, symbolizes masculinity and leadership. The logical battle is symbolized by Hagalaz.
Engravings are the most common form of decoration on Viking axes. These carvings are often based on myths or legends that surround Viking axes. Generally, Viking axes were seven to fifteen centimeters (3 to 6 inches) in length. The blades grew larger later in the Viking age, becoming between 22 and 45 centimeters (9 to 18 inches) long.
runes
The Runes on Viking axes were not always engraved for a magical purpose. In fact, the Vikings used them for magical purposes, including divination. The Runes on Viking axes are a great example of this, as they are carved into the metal in the shape of a man. They are thought to have brought prosperity to the Vikings, who believed in their meaning.
The runic alphabet was a system of symbols developed by the Germanic people around the first or second century AD. Among other things, it has been suggested that these runes symbolized health, prosperity, victory, and death. They were so potent that carving these symbols on everyday objects could help determine one’s faith. For this reason, Viking axes often carry the runes of their gods.
The runes on Viking axes were also used as symbols. The runes resembled spiked tridents. The Runes on Viking axes were often engraved with the Web of Wyrd symbol, which is derived from the Norse myths. Runes on Viking axes are an excellent way to represent the gods and their powers. A pendant necklace of Viking axes is an excellent choice for everyday wear as well as special occasions.
Mammen axe
A Mammen Axe is a beautifully decorated, historically accurate replica of a real Viking axe. It is now displayed at the Nationalmuseet in Copenhagen, Denmark. While this axe may have been a throwing axe, it is more likely to be a ceremonial status symbol or a decorative tool. Regardless of its true purpose, it is a fascinating piece of Viking art.
In 1868, a farmer accidentally uncovered a Mammen grave near Viborg, Denmark. The discovery was significant because the farmer was able to discover an incredible artifact fortune, including a viking axe and a huge wax candle. The grave was also decorated with expensive clothing made of premium cloth. But the most impressive item found in the grave was the Mammen axe. Despite its beauty, the axe carries a profound and mysterious meaning.
The Mammen axe was discovered in a rich burial mound in Jutland, Denmark. The Mammen axe has a head that is approximately 22cm (9in) long. The axe is decorated with precious metal inlays that accentuate the striking edge. The Mammen axe head is an example of this; its gold and silver inlays make it a truly exquisite piece of Viking relic.
Dane axe
The Dane axe, also known as the Viking broadaxe, first appears during the second half of the 10th century. The development of this weapon signals the growing importance of axes in Viking culture. Despite its relatively small size, the axe is one of the most powerful weapons available to seasoned Viking warriors. The axe is typically very thin and has a thick reinforced edge, and it is hand-finished and hand-shaped.
The Dane axe is mainly handled with two hands, which makes it a two-handed weapon. It is not possible to use the axe while swinging a shield, so the wielder must take cover behind friendly forces. The axe’s long handle also makes it possible to use defensive maneuvers when in combat. A viking could also use it as a sling. The Danish axe has a long handle, which is a great advantage when it comes to slinging it.
Due to its light head and long handle, the Dane axe is not a good choice for cutting wood, and is not very useful for domestic tasks. Unfortunately, this feature makes it difficult to find one on the market. The only way to acquire a Dane axe is to contact a medieval blacksmith or order one from a custom maker. However, even if you don’t want to pay top dollar for your new axe, you can build it yourself.