The Viking Age, which lasted from the 8th to the 11th centuries, is known for its seafaring and trading skills, but also for its legendary warriors. Among the various weapons they used, the Viking axe was one of the most important. The Viking axe was a versatile tool, primarily used for chopping trees and wood for constructing their boats and buildings, but also as a weapon in battles. In this article, we will explore the different types of Viking axes and their purposes.
The Bearded Axe
The bearded axe, also known as the Dane axe, was one of the most commonly used Viking axes. It typically had a long blade that curved downwards at the end, creating a “beard-like” design. The bearded axe could be used for both chopping and thrusting, making it a versatile weapon on the battlefield. Due to its size, it was also used as a tool for felling trees and chopping wood.
The Broad Axe
The broad axe, as the name suggests, had a broad blade that was perfect for chopping and splitting wood. It was one of the primary tools used for building Viking ships and houses. The blade of the broad axe would be attached to a long wooden handle, which allowed for greater force to be applied while chopping.
The Greate Axe
The greate axe was a massive two-handed axe that was primarily used by the elite Viking warriors. As it was much larger than the other axes, it required both hands to wield it effectively. Due to its size and weight, it was used as an intimidating weapon on the battlefield, allowing Viking warriors to overpower their opponents. It was also used for executions, as it could easily cut through flesh and bone.
The Short Axe
The short axe, also known as the hand axe, was a small but deadly Viking axe. It had a short handle and a small blade, making it perfect for close combat. The short axe could be thrown or wielded in one hand, allowing Viking warriors to take down their opponents quickly and efficiently. Due to its size, the short axe was also commonly used as a tool on hunts and in everyday life.
The Thrusting Axe
The thrusting axe, also known as the spear axe, had a long, narrow blade that was perfect for thrusting into the opponent. It was primarily used for thrusting rather than chopping, making it a great weapon for close combat. In some cases, the thrusting axe had a hook on the back of the blade, allowing Viking warriors to grab and pull their opponents towards them.
Conclusion
Viking axes were an essential part of Viking culture, both as tools and weapons. Each type of Viking axe was designed for specific purposes, whether it be chopping wood, thrusting in battle, or executing prisoners. The Viking axe was not only a symbol of Viking strength and power but also a testament to their innovation and creativity when it came to weapon design. Dive into the subject matter using this recommended external content. Examine this detailed analysis.
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