Viking axes

WHAT ARE THE VIKING AXES LIKE?

Vikings and medieval Europeans used axes as weapons and tools. Viking axes were typically smaller and more versatile than their medieval counterparts, which were larger and used primarily for warfare.

Viking axes had a single pointed head, making them suitable for a variety of tasks including chopping wood, building, and fighting. The heads were usually made of iron and attached to a wooden handle by means of a tie or socket.

THE MEDIEVAL AXES

Medieval axes, on the other hand, were used primarily for warfare and had double-edged heads with a point on the reverse. These axes were larger than Viking axes and the heads were usually made of steel. They were attached to a wooden handle using a socket.

Both Viking and Medieval axes were highly prized possessions and were passed down from generation to generation. They were often decorated with intricate designs and inlaid with precious metals.

It's worth noting that the Vikings also used other types of axes, such as the Danish axe, which was larger and heavier than the typical Viking ax and had a longer handle. It was mainly used for warfare and was wielded with both hands.

WHAT TYPES OF AXES DID THE VIKINGS USE?

Viking axes:

• Bearded Axe: This type of ax had a downward-curving "beard" on the lower edge of the ax head, making it easier to hook and disarm opponents in combat.

• Hand Axe – This was a small, single-edged ax that was easy to carry and could be used for a variety of tasks, including chopping wood and building.

• Danish Axe: This was a larger, heavier ax that had a longer handle and was usually wielded with two hands. It was mainly used for war.

medieval axes:

• Battle Axe: It was a large, double-edged ax that was used primarily for warfare. It had a spike on the reverse side and was used to deliver crushing blows to opponents.

• Pole Axe: This was a battle ax mounted on the end of a long shaft, used to deliver powerful blows to opponents while keeping its wielder at a safe distance.

• Francisca: This was a type of throwing ax used by the Franks during medieval times. It had a distinctively shaped head and was used as a tool as well as a weapon.

It's also worth noting that there were many regional variations and differences in ax design and construction during the Viking and Medieval periods, and the types of axes used would have varied by culture and time period.

THE MOST FAMOUS VIKINGS IN HISTORY

Many Vikings have become famous throughout history for their exploits and achievements. Some of the best known Vikings include:

• Ragnar Lothbrok – A legendary Viking warrior and ruler, said to have been the father of several famous Viking warriors, including Ivar the Boneless and Bjorn Ironside. He was known for his daring raids and was said to be a great leader.

• Leif Erikson: He was a Nordic explorer and one of the first Europeans to set foot in North America, before Christopher Columbus. It is said that he discovered Vinland, which is believed to be located in present-day Newfoundland, Canada.

• Harald Hardrada : He was a Norwegian king and a skilled warrior who fought in the Battle of Stamford Bridge, which was one of the most famous battles of the Viking Age. He died in battle, but his reputation as a fierce warrior lived on.

• Erik the Red: He was a Norwegian explorer best known for discovering and colonizing Greenland. He also founded the first Norse settlement in Iceland.

• Padfoot the Great: He was a Danish king who conquered England at the beginning of the 11th century. He was one of the most powerful kings of his time, and his reign marked the height of the North Sea Empire.

• Bjorn Ironside: He was the son of Ragnar Lothbrok , and a legendary Viking warrior and leader. It is said that he led many successful raids and was known for his fierce fighting style.

It's worth noting that many of these figures are considered legendary and their stories were passed down orally before they were written down, so the accuracy of the stories may vary.