Viking Axes: History, Design, and Modern Use

Viking axes were far more than simple tools; they were integral to survival, warfare, and culture in the Nordic world. Every Viking household owned at least one axe, since it was a necessity for daily tasks such as chopping firewood, building homes, and crafting ships. But in times of conflict, these same tools transformed into deadly weapons. Unlike swords, which required costly iron and skilled smithing, axes were accessible to all classes of society, giving even the poorest Viking the ability to arm himself.

History and Development of Viking Axes

On the battlefield, Viking warriors wielded battle axes that were lightweight yet devastating. Their sharp, wide blades and long handles provided reach and striking power that could cut through shields, armor, and bone. Some warriors even mastered the use of throwing axes, small and quick weapons that could disrupt enemy lines or strike from a distance. This versatility made axes indispensable in combat, ensuring that they became the defining weapon of the Viking Age.

Beyond war, axes played a central role in Norse identity. They were symbols of self-reliance, craftsmanship, and power – tools that represented both the harsh realities of survival and the fierce independence of the Viking spirit.

Viking axes were more than just tools; they were essential weapons, instruments of daily life, and symbols of status. Unlike swords, which were expensive and often reserved for the wealthy, axes were accessible to every Viking, making them a primary weapon in battle.

Design and Features of Viking Axes

The genius of Viking axe design lay in its balance of simplicity and efficiency. Blades were typically wide and thin, designed to deliver deep, clean cuts rather than brute force. A well-forged axe could split wood one day and strike down an enemy the next. Long handles provided leverage for powerful swings, while shorter handles allowed for precision and speed.

Materials were carefully chosen for durability. Blades were made of iron or steel, with higher-quality versions featuring hardened steel edges for superior sharpness. Handles were crafted from strong, flexible hardwoods such as ash and oak, chosen for their ability to absorb shock without breaking.

Aesthetics were equally important. Many Viking axes were decorated with engravings, runes, and Norse symbols, turning each piece into a personal statement. These carvings often had spiritual or protective meanings, reflecting the warrior’s beliefs in fate, gods, and ancestry. An engraved axe was not only a weapon – it was an extension of the Viking’s soul and heritage.

Different types of axes emerged over time, including:

Bearded axes (Skeggøx) – with an extended lower blade, perfect for hooking and pulling in combat or precise woodwork.
Broad axes – wide cutting surfaces designed for battle or carpentry.
Throwing axes – smaller and lighter, carried as secondary weapons.

This variety showed how deeply axes were embedded into every aspect of Viking life.

Modern Uses of Viking Axes

Though they are no longer weapons of war, Viking axes continue to thrive in the modern world. Today, they are appreciated not only as tools but as cultural icons.

Historical reenactors use Viking axes to recreate epic battles and ceremonies, keeping traditions alive for audiences worldwide.
Axe throwing competitions have surged in popularity, and Viking-inspired axes are often favored for their balance, precision, and heritage.
Bushcraft and survivalists rely on hand-forged axes for tasks such as chopping wood, clearing brush, and building shelters. Their reliability makes them essential for outdoor adventures.
Collectors and enthusiasts value Viking axes as functional works of art, admiring the craftsmanship, engravings, and historical symbolism behind each piece.

Hand-forged Viking axes bridge the gap between past and present. They embody a thousand years of tradition while serving practical roles in modern life – whether that means preparing firewood in the wilderness, competing in a throwing league, or displaying a striking piece of craftsmanship at home.

The Enduring Legacy

The legacy of the Viking axe lives on because it represents more than steel and wood. It tells the story of resilience, resourcefulness, and cultural pride. To own a Viking axe today is to hold a piece of history in your hands – a reminder of an era when survival depended on skill, strength, and craftsmanship.

The legacy of the Viking axe lives on, combining historical craftsmanship with modern utility, making it as relevant today as it was a thousand years ago.

Standard axe

Hand forged axe “OTHALA” with leather cover

$252.00

Hand-forged hardened bearded viking axe "Fenrisulfr" with carved handle

$248.00

Viking axe handmade Ulfhednar Warriors

$291.00

Hand forged hatchet “Vill Gustus”

$203.00

View all

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Viking axe called?

Viking axes had different names, but one of the most common types was the Dane axe, a long-handled battle axe. Another popular design was the bearded axe, named for its extended lower blade, which allowed for better grip and utility.

How did Vikings secure axe heads?

Vikings secured axe heads using a simple friction fit. The handle was tapered so that the axe head would slide on tightly and hold firm with use. Some were additionally secured with wooden wedges or bindings for extra stability.

Can a bearded axe chop wood?

Yes, a bearded axe can chop wood effectively. Its extended lower blade provides a better grip for precision cuts, making it useful for woodworking, carving, and splitting smaller logs. However, larger axes are better suited for heavy-duty chopping.

What did real Viking axes look like?

Real Viking axes were lightweight, sharp, and well-balanced. They had thin, broad blades designed for both combat and utility. Some were small for one-handed use, while others, like the Dane axe, had long handles for powerful swings.

Can you throw a Viking axe?

Yes, some Viking axes, especially smaller hand axes, were light and well-balanced enough for throwing. Vikings likely used them in battle and hunting, but larger battle axes were primarily meant for melee combat.

Did Vikings prefer axes or swords?

Vikings preferred axes because they were cheaper and more versatile than swords. Axes were easy to craft, maintain, and use in both combat and daily life, while swords were expensive and mainly used by wealthier warriors.

What did Vikings use to sharpen their axes?

Vikings sharpened their axes using whetstones, often made from fine-grained sandstone. These stones were carried as personal tools and used with water or oil to maintain a sharp edge.

What is the best-preserved Viking axe?

One of the best-preserved Viking axes is the Mammen Axe, found in a 10th-century burial in Denmark. It features intricate silver inlays and is believed to have belonged to a high-status individual, possibly a chieftain.