Product description
This axe head is a replica of a 10th-century example found in England. Axes like this were used by both Norwegian and Danish Vikings and continued to be used on the British Isles well beyond the early medieval period. Today, the original is part of the Royal Armouries collection in Leeds.
This type of axe head is classified as Petersen Type M, better known as the famous “Daneaxe.” The blade features a wide, thinly forged, wedge-shaped cutting edge, often with yoke-like projections (spurs) on either side of the eye. The head is relatively light due to the thin steel but has a large surface area.
This is the classic Dane-axe, which appeared in larger numbers from around 950 AD. It was used by elite warriors, such as huscarls, and was especially effective for attacking cavalry and breaking shield walls. Type M heads have been found throughout much of Europe, from Scandinavia to England and Eastern Europe. Axes like this remained in use even into the 12th century and were used as sparth axes by the Gaelic peoples of the Irish Sea region during the Middle Ages.
This axe head is semi-sharp, made of carbon steel, measures 16 cm in length, up to 110 mm in width, and weighs approximately 1,250 grams.
