If you are a history buff or simply a Viking axe fan of Viking culture, you might be interested in finding one of the many viking throwing axes for sale on the market. The most common Viking throwing axe is the 'Norse' or 'Ugric' axe, and these have a reputation for being highly accurate. The manufacturer of this Viking axe is Windlass Steelcrafts. It features an engraved knotwork dragon carved into the darkened steel head and an American hickory shaft.
Medieval Francisca Battle Axe
The Medieval Francisca Battle Axe is an impressively designed short axe. Measuring 17 inches, this axe is based on the historical Viking version. Its hefty, thick head with double-edged, curved edges is highly effective in close-quarters combat. The swelled-end hardwood shaft offers secure head retention, and the rounded back sweep makes it a natural fit for the hands.
The first known use of the term "francisca" appears in the book Ethymologiarum sive originum, libri XVIII by Isidore of Seville (c.560-636). He referred to this axe as "francisca" because it was used by Franks. Later, Gregory of Tours used two Latin terms for this weapon: bipennis and securis. A double-headed francisque appeared in the iconography of Vichy France, which became the capital of the Roman Empire.
Unlike the other Medieval axes, the Francisca was unique in that it bounced unpredictably when struck the ground. Its unusually shaped head and slight curvature of the haft provided a great amount of flexibility. It also reacted to a variety of targets, including shields, legs, and even through enemy ranks. During battles, Franks threw the Francisca volleys, confusing enemy lines and intimidating their enemies.
The ax has been used for battle for over 6000 years. This weapon was a backup for the sword in battle and continued to be used in combat throughout the late Stone Age and early Bronze Age. In the late Stone Age, battle-axe cultures spanned much of northern Europe. Initially, the ax had a stone head, but as time passed, the haft was made of wood to make wielding easier. The head was often sharpened on both sides and double-beveled.
While the axe is commonly associated with Vikings, it was actually used by many Scandinavian maritime marauders and foot soldiers in combat. It had several variations, including one with a trailing lower edge, which increased cleaving power and was also useful for catching an opponent's shield, leaving the shield-bearer vulnerable to a follow-up blow. Like the sword, the battle axe may have been wielded with one or both hands.
The Medieval Francisca Battle Axe is a rare and important weapon. Its design and use make it a highly effective tool in battle. Its curved blade and saber-like head were ideal for delivering a fatal blow to a foe. The blade of this axe is called a misericorde, or mercy giver, and comes from the Latin word misericordia, meaning "mercy".
Cold Steel Viking Bearded Axe
The Cold Steel Bearded Viking Hand Axe is a collector's item as well as a functional tool. A collaborative design by Lynn C. Thompson and custom blade-smiths Dave Baker and Rich McDonald, this viking-style hand axe is an impressive tool. A true masterpiece of American blade-smithing, this axe is both beautiful and functional. With the Viking style in mind, it's sure to make a strong impact on any collector's collection.
The Cold Steel Viking Bearded Axe features a 6 1/4" carbon steel head with a hook-and-thrust configuration. The axe weighs 17.6 ounces and comes with a CS-SC90WVBA sheath. The Cold Steel Viking Bearded Axe is a true collector's item, and will add a bit of a medieval flavor to any collection.
These authentically-styled Viking axes are crafted from high carbon steel. They feature authentic designs and are fully functional. They can even be used to haul themselves up walls. If you're in need of a bearded axe, you can buy one at the Cold Steel Viking Bearded Axe for sale online. While you're browsing, you'll find many great deals on Viking axes from Cold Steel.
Axes were the standard battle weapons of Vikings. In Old Norse, the word axe meant "ox," which is why the Vikings called their axes Skeggox. Viking axes served several purposes, ranging from woodcutting to fighting. The Dane Axe is heavy-duty and can hack through wood easily. And because it is historically accurate, it is a great addition to any collection.
