A Viking sword is an early medieval Norse blade, broad, double-edged, and single-handed, carried across Scandinavia and Northern Europe from about the 8th to the 11th century. Blades run roughly 70 to 90 cm (28 to 35 in) and the sword weighs around 1 to 1.5 kg (2.2 to 3.3 lb), with a wide fuller down the centre to keep it light and fast. Its short guard, thick grip, and distinctive lobed pommel make it instantly recognisable and one of the most treasured weapons of the Viking Age.
What defines a Viking sword
Archaeologists classify these blades using the Petersen typology, a system built by Jan Petersen in 1919 that sorts Viking swords by the shape of the hilt and pommel. A few features unite them all:
- Blade: broad and double-edged, 70 to 90 cm (28 to 35 in), with a deep fuller for lightness.
- Pommel: often lobed into three or five sections, the signature Norse look.
- Guard: short and thick, since the Viking sword was paired with a round shield rather than used for fencing.
Ulfberht and pattern-welding
The finest Viking swords were the Ulfberht blades, a group of around 170 surviving swords inlaid with the name +VLFBERH+T. Many were forged from remarkably pure crucible steel, centuries ahead of their time. Earlier Norse smiths also used pattern-welding, twisting and folding rods of iron and steel to create strong blades with a rippling surface, a technique echoed today in our folded and Damascus options.
How our Viking swords are forged
Every Viking sword here is hand-forged, heat-treated, and built full tang, so the steel runs unbroken from tip through the pommel. That construction is what separates a sword you can cut with from a decorative replica.
| Steel | Best for | Character |
|---|---|---|
| 1095 high-carbon | Cutting and reenactment | Tough, keeps a keen edge, needs oiling |
| Folded / pattern-welded | Collecting and display | Rippling historic surface, one of a kind |
| Stainless | Display and costume | Low upkeep, ideal for wall pieces |
Viking sword vs medieval sword
The Viking sword is the ancestor of the later medieval sword. As mail gave way to plate and knights adopted longer weapons, the short-guarded Norse blade evolved into the cruciform arming sword and eventually the two-handed longsword. Collectors often pair a Viking sword with a longsword to mark the opening and closing chapters of the European blade.
Caring for your Viking sword
A carbon-steel Viking blade needs only a thin film of oil after handling and dry storage to stay rust-free. Wipe off fingerprints promptly, since skin oils are acidic. For reenactment or cutting, see our battle-ready swords. Every Viking sword ships free worldwide with duties covered and a 30-day return window.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Viking sword?
A Viking sword is an early medieval Norse blade, broad, double-edged, and single-handed, used from about the 8th to the 11th century. Blades run 70 to 90 cm (28 to 35 in) and weigh around 1 to 1.5 kg (2.2 to 3.3 lb), with a wide fuller and a lobed pommel.
What was an Ulfberht sword?
Ulfberht swords are a group of about 170 surviving Viking blades inlaid with the name +VLFBERH+T. Many were made from unusually pure crucible steel, making them the premium blades of the Viking Age.
How heavy is a Viking sword?
A typical Viking sword weighs 1 to 1.5 kg (2.2 to 3.3 lb). The deep central fuller keeps it light and quick in one hand, since it was designed to be used alongside a round shield.
Are your Viking swords battle-ready?
Yes. Each Viking sword is hand-forged from high-carbon steel, heat-treated, and built full tang for cutting and reenactment. Pattern-welded and stainless versions are offered for display and collecting.
What is pattern-welding?
Pattern-welding is an early forging method where rods of iron and steel are twisted and folded together, creating a strong blade with a rippling surface pattern. Norse smiths used it before high-quality crucible steel became available.
Do you ship Viking swords worldwide?
Yes. All Viking swords ship free worldwide with import duties and taxes covered, backed by a 30-day return window and a lifetime craftsmanship guarantee.