Danish Hand Axe

In the ranks of the Huscarls, the bodyguard of Scandinavian nobles and kings, axes of various sizes were a very popular weapon. The Huscarls often used the Danish axe with their left hand to attack the side of the enemy not protected by a shield. Pictures of the Danish axe can be found, for example, on the Bayeux Tapestry and date to the second half of the 11th century.

Smaller beard axes such as this Danish hand axe had evolved from Francisca and served the Huscarls primarily as devastating throwing axes, but were also used in close combat. A distinctive feature is the relatively long blade cutting, which tapers sharply towards the shaft. The blade encloses the shaft made of wood and is riveted to it. The shaft is largely straight but is widened at the lower end towards the blade, which improves the handling discreetly.

Length: 53cm
Weight: 680g

All dimensions are approximate and may vary from piece to piece.

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