Functional axes

FUNCTIONAL MEDIEVAL AXES

Functional axes from the Medieval and Viking periods were designed for specific tasks and were used for both practical and military purposes.

WHAT THE VIKING FUNCTIONAL AXES WERE LIKE

Viking axes used to be smaller and more versatile than their medieval counterparts. They typically had a single-bite 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. Viking axes were balanced and light, allowing for easy handling and control.

THE USE OF 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. The double-bit design allowed for greater cutting power and penetration, and the tine at the rear was used for nailing and hooking. They were heavier than Viking axes, making them harder to wield, but also more devastating in battle.

Both Viking and medieval axes were designed to be durable and withstand heavy use. They were made from high-quality materials and were often decorated with intricate designs, showing the craftsmanship and skill of the blacksmiths who made them.

It is worth noting that many modern reproductions of historical axes are also available for those who want to use them for practical purposes such as recreation, LARP, camping, or bushcraft. These modern reproductions are made with contemporary techniques and materials that make them more durable and safer to use than the originals.