Product description
In 2011, while constructing a new road in the Langeid area of southern Norway's Setesdal Valley, workers discovered an ancient Viking cemetery. In addition to coins and a broad axe, archaeologists have unearthed a striking, unique sword. Windlass Steelcrafts have replicated this amazing weapon and created a fully functional sword with a carbon steel blade that is just as combative as the original. Whether the sword originated in Norway or is possibly an Anglo-Saxon weapon found elsewhere obtained is a matter of speculation. But there is no doubt that this was an expensive example of deadly art highly prized by the Viking warrior. The pommel and descending crossguard are decorated in gold and copper, displaying a mix of Latin characters, Christian and runic symbols, the exact meanings of which have been lost to time. Some characters are apparently inverted for symmetry. The Latin letters are among the most difficult to interpret, but can be meaningful abbreviations for Christian messages. They can be anything from Bible verses to worship of Christ in Greek or Latin, somewhat equivalent to Christograms. A cross or "X" can represent Xristos (Christ). "R" appears in several places and can stand for Rex (king). "H" appears once and its meaning is quite uncertain. The "E" sign appears in various orientations, but its meaning is also mysterious. A mark resembling a rune could be a stylized "S". On top of the pommel is a hand holding a cross, possibly representing the hand of Jesus or God. The cross in the hand combined with the "S" sign, if loosely interpreted, could be read as Xristos Salvator (Christ the Redeemer), but would then represent a mixture of Greek and Latin.</p >Interestingly, the grip of this sword has one of the shortest known lengths, only just over 3.1 inches. Short handles are very common on Viking swords with steeply sloped guards like this one. The owner had to rest his little finger on the pommel or possibly have his index finger and thumb clasp the crossguard (Viking warriors often slipped the pommel into their palms during a swing to increase the effectiveness of a blow).</p > This faithful replica is a fully functional sword. The pommel and crossguard are silver-plated steel, and the markings are reproduced in real gold and copper. We have widened the handle for comfort, but the wire wrapping is twisted in the same patterns as a prominent Viking hand used centuries ago.The remarkably well-preserved find can now be admired in the Cultural History Museum in Oslo. The original scabbard had long since decayed, so we made one from high-quality leather and engraved it with a pattern made from the pommel image. The scabbard comes with its own belt.
Details:
Total length: 101 cm
Blade length: 81.28 cm
Max. blade width: 5.17 cm
Max. blade thickness: 0.56 cm
Edge: semi-sharp
Material: 1080 carbon steel 50 HRC.
Weight: 1.36 kg
Delivery includes scabbard.
Including scabbard
Based on a historical original
Shipment weight (g): 2000 *
We do not sell this product to customers under the age of 18. Click here for more information on the European arms acts.
This item is produced in limited quantities only. This means that every piece is unique. Sizes & finish may vary lightly from piece to piece.
Prevent rust and corrosion by oiling your weapons regularly. Remove rust easily with black sandpaper. Remove burrs with a whetstone. Make sure you have removed all burrs before using a battle-ready weapon, as they can cause wounds.
Tip: How to adjust the finish of your armour and weaponry
Luxurious (polished)- polish the steel with metal polish or toothpaste. You can even give the item a mirror-like polish. Test on a small surface first!
Handmade (matte)- soak the steel in cola for 40 minutes to 20 hours. Check regularly and treat with black sandpaper.
Antique (patinated) leave the steel to rust for some time in a damp environment, preferably outside. Remove the red layer of rust, to reveal the corroded top layer.
Please note. After finishing the product yourself, the warranty and return right expire. Celtic WebMerchant is not responsible for the obtained result."
When packaging this item, we exclusively use 100% recycled plastic and recycled paper/cardboard from FSC certified forests. We reuse a large part of the material directly without the intervention of a recycling process.
Recycle the material by separating your waste:
1. Cardboard: separate or reuse your paper.
2. Plastic cushions, clothing bags and plastic tape: separate or reuse your plastic. If possible, pierce the cushions with a volume reduction needle.
3. Paper packaging for jewelry and small items: these have a plastic inner layer. Remove these, then separate your paper and plastic.
Read here about how we are committed to sustainability.
