Viking axe
The Viking axe is one of the most characteristic weapons of the early Middle Ages – serving equally as a weapon, a tool and a status symbol. Our range includes hand-forged replicas, from compact throwing axes to long Danish axes, crafted from carbon steel with wooden handles, for re-enactors, collectors and anyone who wants to bring history to life.
What axes did the Vikings use? An overview of the types
The Vikings did not use a single type of axe – the tool varied considerably depending on the task and social status. The typological classification by Petersen and Wheeler divides early medieval axes into several groups based on blade shape, size and find context. Archaeological finds such as the famous Mammen axe (10th century, Denmark) attest not only to the craftsmanship of the smiths but also to the high cultural significance of these weapons.
Beard axe (Skeggøx)
Characteristic downward-curving blade beard, light weight with a large cutting edge – suitable for combat, carpentry and boarding manoeuvres.
Danish axe (Langaxt)
Long shaft up to 150 cm, broad crescent-shaped blade, two-handed wielding. A feared weapon on the battlefield, prominently depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry.
Throwing axe / Fransiska
Curved blade for rotational throwing – originally Frankish, widespread in the Early Middle Ages. Popular today in re-enactment and throwing sports.
The beard axe (Skeggøx) – form, function and name
The name ‘beard axe’ is derived from the Old Norse word ‘skegg’ – meaning ‘beard’. It describes the downward extension of the blade, which visually resembles a beard. This design was not merely aesthetic: the extended blade ‘beard’ significantly increases the cutting edge without adding to the axe’s overall weight. This saves material during forging and keeps the axe manageable. In combat, the beard allowed the axe to hook behind shields and limbs – a tactical feature that was particularly valued in naval combat when boarding ships. On land, the same shape was suitable for carpentry and woodworking in camp. Today, the bearded axe is one of the most popular models in re-enactment – it sits well in the hand, can be worn on a belt and looks harmonious as part of the overall outfit. It is also widely used as a display combat axe, provided it meets the relevant safety requirements of the event.
The Danish axe – the feared long axe of the Northmen
The Danish axe is a further development of the Viking-era axe, which emerged in the late 10th and early 11th centuries. Its most striking feature is the long shaft – historical examples measured up to 150 cm – combined with a broad, crescent-shaped blade. Due to its weight and length, it was wielded with both hands and rarely carried at the belt. This weapon spread from Scandinavia through England to the Rus and left a clear mark on historical tradition: the Bayeux Tapestry depicts Anglo-Saxon huscarls wielding precisely this axe. The range extends from the rustic Viking long axe from approx. €59 to the forged version with an antique finish – a surface treatment that gives the blade a naturally aged appearance and creates authentic-looking collector’s items.
Throwing axe and Franziska – for long-range throwing and historical replicas
The Franziska is originally a Frankish throwing axe that was used by various peoples in the Early Middle Ages – including the Vikings. The characteristically curved axe head generates a smooth rotation when thrown, which increases accuracy and penetrating power. As a throwing axe, it was hurled with a short run-up before close combat began. Today, Franziska replicas are equally popular with re-enactment groups and in the sport of axe throwing. In our range, you’ll find throwing axes from around €42 to €75, some with a matching leather sheath for safe transport. The variants differ in blade size (13 cm or 18 cm blade) and material – the Valhalla Throwing Axe by Condor, made from 1060 carbon steel, is considered a robust premium option for active use.
Comparison: Bar axe vs. Danish axe vs. throwing axe
- Medium blade size, pronounced beak
- Handle 60–90 cm, can be wielded with one hand
- Combat, woodworking, boarding manoeuvres
- Very well suited for re-enactment and exhibition fighting
- Approx. €42–100 in the shop
- Wide crescent-shaped blade
- Handle up to 150 cm, two-handed
- Battlefield, prestigious collector’s items
- Good for living history, less so for close-quarters display combat
- Approx. €59–143 in the shop
- Compact curved blade
- Short shaft for throwing motion
- Long-range combat, throwing sports, early medieval re-enactment
- Ideal for throwing practice and market displays
- Approx. €17–75 in the shop
- Narrow, compact blade
- Short handle, one-handed
- Wood splitting, camp work, accessory
- Entry-level option and everyday tool
- From approx. €17 in the shop
Materials and quality grades: What goes into a Viking axe?
| Material | Suitability | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon steel (C-steel, 1060 grade) | Historically accurate | Axe head, throwing axes, forged variants |
| Ash / Hickory | Historical | Shaft – durable, lightweight, resilient |
| Leather (vegetably tanned) | LARP / Reenactment | Sheath, grip wrapping, axe holder |
| Antique finish (surface treatment) | Collector’s item | Authentic aged appearance, no functional limitations |
| Polyurethane foam | LARP-safe | Foam variants for events where metal weapons are prohibited |
The price difference between approx. €17 and €143 is primarily due to manufacturing processes and materials: machine-formed axe heads made from plain steel are cheaper to produce, whilst hand-forged heads made from carbon steel require more labour and have a more distinctive finish. Antique finish variants undergo additional finishing, which is reflected in the price – but is also clearly visible.
Viking axe in reenactment: accessories, how to carry it and outfit
Anyone carrying a Viking axe at a reenactment site or medieval market needs practical accessories: an axe holder for the belt made of black-dyed leather is available from around €11 and keeps the axe securely fastened to the body without getting in the way when walking. The result is a cohesive overall look that goes well with a Viking outfit comprising a tunic, trousers and cloak. Complemented by a Viking helmet and a Viking shield, this creates a complete warrior look from the Viking Age. For more discerning re-enactors who value historical accuracy, the Mammen axe (based on an original find from the 10th century) and the Viking cross-axe from Gotland are particularly interesting options – both are detailed replicas based on documented originals.
Legal information: Is an axe prohibited?
Axes are generally not covered by the Weapons Act in Germany – they are considered tools and may be legally purchased and owned. The decisive factor is the intended use: carrying an axe concealed in public spaces without a reasonable justification may nevertheless be considered a breach of administrative law. Sharp replicas are legal as collector’s items or for use on private property, but are not intended for attacks. For LARP events where metal weapons are prohibited, the foam variants made from 100% polyurethane in our range offer a safe alternative. If you are unsure, we recommend checking the relevant local legal situation and the event’s rules in advance.
Whether it’s a hand-forged battle axe for your next re-enactment, a Danish axe with an antique finish as a collector’s item, or a Franziska for throwing sports – browse through our range and find the Viking axe that suits your needs.
Frequently asked questions
The best-known Viking axes are the bearded axe (Old Norse: Skeggøx), the Danish axe (also known as the long axe) and smaller axes for everyday use. The Vikings also used throwing axes. The scientific classification system developed by Petersen and Wheeler divides these finds into different groups based on blade shape and the context in which they were found.
The term ‘beard axe’ is derived from the Old Norse word ‘skegg’, meaning ‘beard’. It describes the characteristic downward extension of the blade, which visually resembles a beard. This shape increases the cutting edge with minimal use of material, makes the axe lighter and enables tactical applications such as hooking it behind shields.
Yes, archaeological finds and written sources confirm the use of axes in combat. The Danish axe, in particular, was a feared weapon on the battlefield, prominently featured in the Bayeux Tapestry. However, axes were not merely weapons – they also served as tools in everyday life and, as decorated objects such as the Mammen axe, had a ceremonial function.
The Franziska is a throwing axe that originated in the Frankish cultural sphere but was widespread in the early Middle Ages. Its curved blade generates a steady rotation when thrown, ensuring greater accuracy. Viking axes, on the other hand, were primarily used in direct combat, although throwing axes were certainly known during the Viking Age.
Yes, axes can be legally purchased and owned in Germany – they are classified as tools and are not covered by the Weapons Act. However, carrying them concealed in public spaces without a valid reason may raise regulatory issues. Foam versions are recommended for LARP events, as metal weapons are often not permitted there.