The Vikings decorated their weapons with intricate metalwork. This decoration typically featured elements that included engraved, stamped, or cast images and symbols associated with their culture. These symbols included animals, mythical creatures, geometric shapes, abstract designs, and symbols that conveyed strength or protection.
To create these metal designs, Vikings used a variety of intricate techniques such as inlay and chiselling. Silver and copper were the most commonly used metals, although some Vikings used gold or bronze if they could afford it.
The decorations would sometimes be overlaid with artistic gems, inlays of coloured glass, animal teeth, ivory, or deer antlers. Oftentimes, weapons were decorated with far more than just metalwork. The grip and hilt of swords, axes, and spears often had intricate paintings, carvings, and ornamental additions to create a truly beautiful and powerful weapon.
What did Vikings call their axes?
Vikings usually referred to their axes as either ‘bearded’ or ‘felling’ axes, due to the distinguishing feature of their blades having a downturned, curved shape at the end which was known as the ‘beard’.
Felling axes had a thin, sharp blade for cutting down trees, whereas bearded axes had a broader, more curved shape that was used for cutting through rope, leather, and other materials. Both types of axe were commonly used by the Vikings for a variety of tasks.
The Vikings also called their axes ‘grafs’, which was derived from the Old Norse words for ‘brain’ or ‘intelligence’, likely reflecting how Vikings viewed the axe as a tool of great strength and intelligence.
Vikings also had names for their axe heads depending on the shape and intended use, such as ‘fehx’, ‘vextr’, ‘stav’, and ‘ryxi’.
Why are Viking axes curved?
Viking axes were curved for two main reasons. The first was that the blades were cast from iron, which was not as strong as steel, so the curved shape helped to distribute the weight of the weapon more evenly and make it stronger.
The second reason was that the curved design made it easier to cut through branches and other vegetation that the Vikings might have encountered while raiding and exploring. The curve also gave more control to the warrior in battle and made it easier to parry or deflect an opponent’s sword strike.
The shape created a false edge which was exceptionally effective in combat, as it made it easier to cause significant damage with a glancing blow.
Did the Vikings invent any weapons?
Yes, the Vikings were well-known for their ability to craft unique weapons. Some of their most popular inventions included spears, swords, axes, and bows and arrows. Spearheads were made from wood, bone, and iron, and were often decorated with intricate Nordic designs.
Defensive weapons, like shields, were built using wood, leather, and metal. The most iconic Viking weapon of all is the curved Viking sword, which could be as long as two meters. While Vikings were also effective fighting with their bare hands, they were especially known for their skill in battle, and they used their weapons to great effect against their enemies.
Why do people use axes instead of swords?
People use axes instead of swords for a variety of reasons. Axes are typically more versatile weapons than swords, which make them a great choice for battle or self-defense. For example, an axe is better at cutting through branches or chopping wood, while a sword is a purely slashing weapon.
Furthermore, an axe is more durable than a sword, meaning it doesn’t need to be replaced as often. This makes an axe a more cost-effective option. Additionally, an axe is easier to wield due to its shorter blade, meaning it can be used in tight spaces.
Furthermore, axes usually have a blunt side which can be used to strike and push an enemy away if they get too close. Lastly, axes are typically more affordable than swords, making them a great option for anyone on a budget.
Overall, the versatility, durability, affordability and weight of an axe make it a great choice for many people.
What do you coat an axe head with?
The most common method of coating an axe head is with paint or varnish. Priming the axe head with a metal primer before painting is a good idea to ensure the paint adheres to the metal. For extra protection, a metal varnish can be applied which will provide a more durable protective layer.
If you will be using the axe outside, a good quality metal wax or an oil-based protective finish is also a good option. It helps lubricate the blade and protect it against corrosion. It’s also important to touch up any coating regularly to ensure it remains in good condition.
How do you refurbish an old axe head?
Refurbishing an old axe head can be a challenging but rewarding experience. To start, the head should be taken off the handle and thoroughly scrubbed with a wire brush. After brushing, the head should be submerged in a hot bath of water and rust remover for 24 hours, being sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the chemicals.
Once it’s been in the rust remover for 24 hours, rinse it off, dry it off with a rag or paper towel, and then you should treat it with sandpaper until the rust is completely gone. You can also use fine steel wool or abrasive pads to make sure the head is smooth and free of rust.
Once the head is rust-free, it’s time to sharpen it. The best way to do this is with a file or a wet stone. Start with the file to take off most of the blunted parts and then move to your wet stone to get the edge razor-sharp.
A sharpening stone is a good investment as it will last you many years and make your job a lot easier.
Once the head has been sharpened, you can use a metal protector to prevent rust. If the head is made of cast iron, a layer of motor oil, vegetable oil, or olive oil should be applied to the surface. If it’s steel, a thin layer of beeswax or paraffin can be used to keep water out.
You can also use a heat gun to help seal the coating.
Finally, it’s time to reattach the handle. Using a heavy-duty adhesive, secure it to the head and use a mallet or hammer to fully set the handle in place. After you’ve nailed or screwed the handle to the head, the refurbishing process is done and you can use your axe for years to come.
What should I put on my axe handle?
When deciding what to put on your axe handle, you should first consider the type of handle you have. For example, a wooden handle will require a different approach than a metal one.
Once you know the type of material you’re dealing with, it’s time to decide what you’ll put on it. Many people choose to simply rub oil onto the handle for a nice sheen, and this is perfectly fine for either a wooden or a metal handle.
You could also wrap the handle with leather or paracord for a more decorative look and improved grip. This approach is a great way to add a bit of your own style to the axe and make it easier to use.
If you want to get really creative, you could also use specialized treatments to make the handle look more interesting. For example, you could use linseed oil for darker hue and varnish for a stronger and glossier finish.
Finally, you can also add some carving or inscription to the handle to identify it or personalize it. Remember to use a non-metallic tool so you don’t wear down the axe head.
Therefore, when it comes to what to put on your axe handle, there are many options. Select an option that best fits your needs, whether you are looking for a nice sheen, improved grip, or more personalized options.
Can I paint an axe head?
Yes, you can paint an axe head. If you want a glossy finish, you can use several layers of spray paint. Make sure to clean the surface of the axe head before applying the paint, and let each layer dry completely before applying the next one.
For a matte finish, you can use oil-based paints that are specifically made for outdoor use on metal surfaces. Again, make sure to clean the axe head beforehand, and apply several layers of the paint until you have achieved the desired finish.
However, you should also keep in mind that the paint can chip off of the head over time if it’s not done properly.
Should I paint my axe?
Whether or not you should paint your axe is entirely up to you. If you’re looking for protection from corrosion, then paint can certainly help achieve that. Consider a high-quality, rust-proof paint such as those made for outdoor use.
A layer of paint will also keep the metal from becoming too hot to handle in the sun, which can be helpful. Additionally, spray paint can add a bit of character to the axe, making it more visually appealing.
On the other hand, it might also make it more difficult to use and care for the axe. Paint can chip off, and if it is not properly applied or sealed, it can turn into a dirt and dust collector. Keep in mind that adding paint may decrease the re-sell value of the axe, should you choose to part with it at some point.
Ultimately, whether or not you should paint your axe depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Should you oil an axe handle?
Yes, it is recommended that you oil your axe handle. This helps to protect the wood from drying out, cracking, and shrinking over time. Application of wax or oil to the handle will also reduce friction when using the axe and protect the handle from moisture and dirt.
You should choose a food-safe oil or wax, such as mineral oil or beeswax, as these are non-toxic and will not cause any harm to the user. To apply the oil or wax, work it into the handle using a cloth or brush.
Allow the oil to penetrate the wood and be sure to wipe off any excess oil from the surface of the handle. This procedure should be repeated every few weeks, depending on the amount of use and the weather.
Properly cared for, an axe handle can last for many years and make using it much more enjoyable.
Can you use olive oil on an axe?
Using olive oil on an axe is generally not recommended and is not a good idea. Olive oil will not provide the necessary protection to the metal surfaces of an axe head and can actually increase the rate of oxidation, resulting in rusting.
Axe heads are typically made of high-carbon steel which requires a light-weight oil that contains protective additives like corrosion inhibitors and lubricants. Motor oil and penetrating oil are ideal for this purpose and will help to protect the metal from corrosion and rust.
Additionally, using oil to coat an axe handle will help protect it from dirt and moisture, reduce wear, and prolong the handles life.
Can any axe be used for throwing?
No, not all axes can be used for throwing. Throwing an axe requires purpose-built throwing axes with handles designed to fit comfortably in the thrower’s hand and have a suitable balance and weight for extended accuracy and distance.
These axes are typically smaller in size than traditional axes and made from higher grade materials. Throwing axes should also have a sharp, angled blade to maximise the aerodynamics of the throw. Trying to throw a traditional axe, such as a woodcutting axe, would be nearly impossible for an inexperienced person, as the axe is not designed for this purpose, and heavier than what a thrower would need.
Before you attempt to throw an axe, you should always seek guidance from a professional and practice proper safety protocols.
What is a Viking throwing AXE called?
A Viking throwing axe is also known as a francisca, sometimes spelled fransisca. It is a throwing axe assembled from iron and made in the shape of a wing, which gives it its distinctive aerodynamic shape.
It originates from the Franks of Northern Europe, particularly the Vikings. The francisca is usually single-edged, with a tapering, curved edge on the side toward the thrower. It typically has a round or octagonal hilt, often reinforced with metal and a wooden shaft.
This axe was most commonly used for warfare, although it was often used for hunting and sport-throwing as well. The axe was popular throughout Northern Europe, reaching its peak popularity in the 8th to 11th centuries.
How heavy was a Viking axe?
The weight of Viking axes vary greatly depending on their size, construction and the material used to make them. Smaller hand axes may have weighed as little as 1-1.5 lbs, while larger battle axes may have weighed up to 8 lbs.
Generally, the larger Viking axes tended to be heavier because they were made of heavier materials such as iron, steel or bronze, while smaller hand axes may have been made of lighter materials such as ash or maple.
Almost all Viking axes also had a long handle which could have added an additional few pounds to the overall weight of the axe. Despite the fact that the heavier axes may have been more effective in battle, the lighter axes were more versatile and could be used for a variety of tasks including woodcutting, chopping meat, and self-defense.
What would a real Viking axe look like?
A real Viking axe would typically be made out of iron and steel. It would have a long cutting edge and a short shaft making it highly maneuverable and particularly effective in close quarters combat.
The head of the axe would generally be composed of a wide cutting edge with a ‘bearded’ or ‘hanged’ shape near the bottom to aid in cutting and slicing. The shaft would generally be composed of wood, though occasionally a small metal shaft was also used for added strength, and often decorated with ornate carvings.
The Viking axe was a formidable weapon and it’s design allowed it to be used in a variety of situations both in combat and in everyday activities. Many examples of historical Viking axes still exist and they are featured in museums and archaeological sites around the world.
How much does a battle AXE weigh?
A battle axe typically weighs between 1.5 lbs and 6 lbs, depending on the size and material used to make the axe. Generally, a battle axe has a larger head and heavier overall weight compared to a regular axe.
Most battle axes are typically made out of iron or steel and have wooden hafts, making them even heavier. The weight of a battle axe can also vary depending on the age of the axe and its condition.
How long was Ragnar’s axe?
Ragnar’s axe was 55 inches long, with a curved handle and two-foot blade crafted from iron. It was said to weigh five pounds, and its wide curved top served as a perch for ravens and other birds of prey.
Ragnar crafted the axe himself, and the story goes that he chose the design after a vision he had involving an eagle. The axe’s handle was made from hickory, and it had a leather binding to protect Ragnar’s hands from the heat of the axehead.
The axehead itself was a mixture of fire and iron, and it had a sharp edge that could cut through tough materials with ease. Ragnar also made sure his axe was decorated with his own unifying symbol. He opted for an eagle with wings spread wide and talons spread out, an image that has now become iconic.