8th-11th century
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Viking Sword
A double-edged straight sword and the most expensive, high-status weapon of the Viking Age, carried by wealthier raiders aboard longships that struck coastal Europe from the 8th to 11th centuries. Some blades, such as those bearing the Ulfberht inscription, were made from unusually pure, high-quality steel for the period. Its cost meant it was far…
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Seax
A single-edged utility knife carried by virtually every Viking, from farmers to warlords, and used as both an everyday tool and a close-combat backup weapon. Its universal presence made it one of the most common weapons on any Viking raiding party. Blade lengths varied widely, from small utility knives to substantial fighting seaxes.
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Dane Axe
A long-hafted, single-bladed axe wielded two-handed, among the primary weapons of Viking Age warfare alongside the spear. Unlike swords, axes were affordable and common across Norse society, making them a mainstay of raiding parties that struck coastal monasteries and towns throughout Europe. Its heavy blade could cleave through shields and armor alike.
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Viking Spear
An iron, leaf-shaped spearhead mounted on a long wooden shaft, the single most common weapon of the Viking Age and cheap enough for nearly any raider to own. Its reach made it well suited to the narrow decks of a longship, where there was little room to swing a sword or axe. It could be…