Swedish Viking Axe

Historical axes are not in production and unavailable in the US. 

Axes resembling the model we have chosen to call Swedish Viking Axe have been discovered in archaeological finds from the Viking Era. Found in several locations in Sweden, the model was common during the time from approx. 800 to 1100 CE. Besides the shape of the axe head, the upswept handle is a characteristic of a Swedish Viking Axe.

The predecessor for the Gränsfors Swedish Viking Axe developed primarily as a hand weapon for close-quarter combat. The light and well-balanced axe had a relatively large, rounded cutting edge, and was perfect to carry in the belt to be used in combat, assuming one came close enough to their opponent.

Because the predecessor of the Gränsfors Swedish Viking Axe was an essential and feared weapon, it was rarely used for anything but warfare, where a functional axe could be the difference between life and death.

The Gränsfors Swedish Viking Axe is traditionally forged using a coal forge, hammer, and anvil. This is an extremely complex and time-consuming process, and the axe is produced in small series. Each axe is stamped with a series number, year of production and the smith’s touchmark.

The Gränsfors Swedish Viking Axe features a hickory handle treated with linseed oil to develop a fine patina. The axe comes with an extra-thick custom-made sheath sewn of vegetable tanned leather.

The Gränsfors Swedish Viking Axe is forged by Ulrika Stridsberg. Ulrika has a solid education in blacksmithing and has worked as a professional blacksmith for more than 20 years. For many years she has had a close relationship with Gränsfors Bruk, focusing on axes and general blacksmithing.