The Vikings are always remembered as one of the most ferocious warriors. All Vikings were nomadic warriors and considered it mandatory to carry weapons with them – not only for conducting wars but also to protect their families. So what were the important weapons for Viking warriors?
Sword
The sword was the most highly valued weapon of the Vikings. However, the sophistication of swords made them an expensive item and possibly the most valuable possession a Viking owned. Therefore, only those with money could afford to own a sword (which was rarely). Viking swords were often passed down from generation to generation or gifted to those of high status.
Viking swords typically had two edges, about 90cm in length and 4-6cm wide. When forging a sword, the blacksmith had to ensure the sword was both light and fast. To achieve this, a skilled craftsman would employ techniques akin to a form of welding, using soft iron and mild steel to create the blade. A specific hallmark of Viking sword craftsmanship was the legendary Ulfberht swords – swords that were both powerful, flexible and razor sharp.
The incredible quality of the Ulfberht swords baffled scientists. They thought techniques to produce such perfect swords were only possible with technology from the Industrial Revolution around 800 years later.
Axes
Axes were a common tool used daily by Vikings. Axes Vikings used for woodcutting were typically simpler than those for combat. The handles of battle axes were longer, helping warriors use them more conveniently, lightly and balanced for high combat effectiveness.
Spears
Spears were the most common Viking weapon. Spears were generally cheaper than other weapons as they required less iron in production. However, they were also very versatile and effective as they could be thrown or used for stabbing enemies.
There were many spear types, typically 3-10 feet in length, with spearheads shaped in various forms.
Bows
Initially used for hunting, bows and arrows gradually became important in Viking battles. In combat, Vikings used archers at a distance, aiming to take down the enemy vanguard first.
Woods from yew and elm trees with strong bending properties were believed to help Norse archers fight better. On average, a bow from Northern Europe could shoot 200 meters.
Arrowheads were typically made of iron and came in various shapes and sizes, depending on their function – some designed for hunting while others, like trefoil and bodkin heads, could pierce armor.
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