Hand forged viking battle axe

Types of Hand-Forged Viking Battle Axes

Viking battle axes were not solely used for warfare, as many people think. These tools can be classified into different categories, and each was used on various occasions. These occasions could range from fights, chopping wood, or even building houses. The axes were not only effective weapons but also durable because, many times, they were simply one blow away from being broken. Some of the common types include:

• Fracture Axes

  These axes were called fracture axes because their heads did not have cutting edges. Instead, they had blunt surfaces forcing the axe into a fracture shape. These axes were mainly used for deadly strikes and breaking bones. In modern interpretations, these axes are primarily designed for collection and display, showcasing the lethal beauty of Viking craftsmanship.

• Felling Axes

  Felling axes were designed to have a sharp edge and a wedge-shaped blade, which made them ideal for cutting down trees. Even though many battle axes had dual purposes, fewer axe types were as effective in combat and had great utility like felling axes. In addition to their importance in warfare, felling axes proved to be of great help during the times of peace.

• Cleaving Axes

  These axes are also called 'beheading axes.' They are characterized by thin blades that offer great cutting ability and double-sided edges for maximal impact. Clearly, as the name suggests, cleaving axes were primarily used for beheadings and other bloody activities. Today, they serve primarily as historical replicas.

• havi and Peasant Axes

  These last two axes were primarily owned by peasants and serfs. A haidring axe is more like a working tool with a sharper and thinner bit for cutting tasks. In contrast, the peasant battle axe had a heavier head with a thicker bit, which was ideal for defense yet still useful for work.

Design of Hand-Forged Viking Battle Axes

Although battle axes are used as weapons, they have also served other important functions that have helped evolve their design. The various designs of axes were more of a reflection of the needs of the users at that time and the destinations where they were going. Some of the designs include:

• Single-headed Axes

  This type was characterized by a single blade on one side of the shaft and was primarily used for throwing and melee combat. They were simpler to forge and lighter to handle, making them ideal for quick, agile fighting. The majority of the Viking population used single-headed axes, from shields and spears to these single-headed axes, which they employed in any wars or conquests across Europe.

• Double-headed Axes

  Also known as 'g Cleavers,' these axes had two opposing blades. Such an axe is very dangerous to the ax-wielder enemy and allows for more impactful strikes. The design became popular in later periods when warfare required more brutal and decisive quick-cutting actions. These axes are considered more of a status symbol, with one being a practical tool or weapon used in battle.

• Pick-headed Axes

  This battle axe type is fitted with a sharp pick on the opposite side of the blade. It was mainly used to penetrate armor during the battles of the later medieval period. The pick head could seriously injure the enemy even without striking a killing blow. Pickheaded axes are ideal for collectors who are interested in the evolution of weaponry.

• Hammer-headed Axes

  These types of axes had a hammer-like end opposite the blade. They were primarily used to crush and stun the enemy. This was an effective killing weapon and allowed the user to incapacitate the opponent without necessarily beheading him. Many of these were extremely handy in situations where the fighting was closer and had to be done with brute force.

International Shipping and Regulations

When selecting a supplier, it is important to consider the kind of international shipping they use and the regulations they conform to. Most of these axes are classified as weapons, and one must know continents or countries with strict weapon policies. Some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a supplier for hand-forged battle axes include:

• Shipping Methods

  Different suppliers use different shipping methods to transport their goods. Knowing the options can help make a more informed choice. Some of the most popular carriers are:

  • FedEx: It is one of the fastest ways to ship any goods internationally. However, they are a bit expensive than the rest. They offer various international services to accommodate the time zone of different countries. They are ideal for sending small packages.
  • UPS: They offer a late delivery service with guaranteed pick-up, but as mentioned, it is not cheap. They also provide various international delivery services according to acceptable times for different countries.
  • USPS: It is less expensive than FedEx and UPS, but it does not have long borders with effective shipping services. Such a carrier might work well for small, light packages or axe letters.
  • DHL: DHL is best known for its excellent and efficient international shipping services. They are capable of getting shipments across borders quickly and safely, making them an ideal choice for any business that relies on timely deliveries to countries around the world.

  When choosing a shipping method, it is always crucial to balance cost, speed, and reliability according to the *target market's preference.

• Customs Duties and Taxes

  Most countries will charge import fees or taxes on any sharp weapons such as hand-forged battle axes. It is a necessity to know these costs upfront, as they may impact the total cost of buying in bulk. These cost implications will also affect the pricing strategy.

• Warranty and Returns

  Since shipping sharp objects like battle hammers can incur damage to the product or harm the person handling it, it will be good to understand the warranty/return policies of the supplier. Good warranty/return policies are vital in the sense they allow for the easy replacement of damaged goods without incurring extra costs for the buyer.

• Packaging

  It is known that battle axes are shipped with special protective packaging. Read about the packaging plans of the suppliers before picking one. Any information concerning how the items would be wrapped or if there was a special protective layer around sharp edges would be helpful. This can help determine if they offer the kind of protection needed during transportation.

Maintenance and Repair of Hand-Forged Viking Battle Axes

This section will tell the readers about how to maintain and repair their battle axes so that they can last long and effective. It will include daily care tips and when to do any professional repair service. Some maintenance and repair tips include?

• Regular Inspection

  The user should check the axe for any signs of wear and tear. Some signs to look out for are cracks on the handle, rust on the head, or the edge wearing dull. The earlier the problems are detected, the easier they are to fix and the less likely the axe will be rendered useless. Inspections should be done after every use, as this gives the axe time to rest, and one can easily see the damage it has caused or received.

• Sharpening

  The axe should be kept sharp all the time. A dull axe is dangerous since a lot of force will be required to make it chop, and the force that is generated will be ineffective against the enemy, causing injuries. Sharpening will majorly involve using a whetstone to get a fine edge. It is advisable to sharpen the axe based on how often it is used, but sharpening it a little every time it is used is good.

• Cleaning

  After every use, clean the axe and dry it to prevent rust from forming. Debris will be left on the axe after using it, which should be washed off with water and a mild detergent. Do not use a harsh chemical that will damage the metal or wood. Axes are left outside a lot, which means they endure harsh weather conditions. Apply a thin layer of oil on the metal and wooden parts to create a protective barrier against rust.

• Storage

  A storage location for an axe should be dry and cool. Do not leave it in a moist area since this will cause it to rust. Also, do not keep it in an area where the temperature constantly changes, as this can weaken or crack the wood. The best way to store a battle axe is to keep it in a protective covering so that it is not easy to come into contact with the sharp edges.

• Repairs

  Some of the maintenance practices discussed above do require some degree of repair. Any small problems that may occur, such as a minor crack in the handle or the head coming loose, should be fixed as soon as possible. This will typically involve re-tightening or gluing the parts together. However, larger problems may require the assistance of a professional. In such a case, one should go to an experienced smith or someone with great knowledge of axe repair.

Q & A

Q1. Are hand-forged viking battle axe weapons permitted to have any wars or conflicts?

A1. Nope, these axes are classified as historical replicas and are banned in some of the countries by law. Yet, in parts of the world where there are no specific regulations governing weapons, there are still legal restrictions on the usage of such axes.

Q2. What is the importance of having a warranty when purchasing a hand-forged axe?

A2. Yes, warranties are important. The battle axes are handmade products; a warranty is a promise that they will replace or fix the defects that may have been presented during their making.

Q3. Do viking battle axes have any importance in the current era?

A3. Yes, they are used by some modern-day warriors. They are mainly a chosen weapon by re-enactors because of their historical combat value. However, most will use them as collector pieces or for display purposes to appreciate the artwork behind making them.

Q4. What is the best way to preserve a battle axe from rusting?

A4. Keep it dry, apply oil to both the metal and wooden parts, and don't leave it exposed to the elements.

Q5. How do I keep the axe sharp enough?

A5. Use a whetstone to sharpen the edge, and do it regularly to maintain its sharpness.