Viking cross axes are among the most fascinating ancient weapons. There are many things to learn about these axes, including their shapes, functions, and techniques. Let's begin by exploring the different motifs on these axes. The bird motif is common in viking weapons, but it can also come from other sources. For instance, the rooster viking swords Gullinkambi is often depicted on these axes, and this motif could be from Norse mythology or even Christian mythology.
Objects
The Vikings were a very powerful force in Northern Europe who vanquished many lands and settled in many others. Their success is attributed to their Norse mindset, brutal combat skills, and diverse weaponry. Their most common weapon was the axe, which was light and easy to handle. They also used axes to build their renowned longboats.
The aegishjalmur (Aegishjalmr) was a powerful symbol used by the Vikings. They believed that it would protect them and bring victory. The symbol also evoked fear in the enemies. The symbol was placed on the helmet and armor to ensure protection.
There are several different types of Viking cross axes. Some of them have grooves or crosses in the blade, while others are plain. Examples of these objects include the Birka axe and the Taby axe. The former is a simple axe with a Petersen type M blade, while the latter features a rounded middle piece and a projecting butt. A close relative of these Swedish pieces is the Turaidas Puteli axe from Latvia.
In the northern part of the European continent, the number of axes in graves increases in the 10th century. Earlier, axes had been the weapons of peasants or men with low status. However, after Christianisation, they became the symbol of the warrior's profession. The axes were often used by renowned warriors.
Shapes
Viking cross axes have a wide range of cross-sections, but the majority are asymmetrical. Their heads are single-edged and often have a shield-like shape, with a flat or a thick back. These axes were probably used by the elite of their society.
Viking cross axes were often used for ceremonial purposes. They resembled Frankish throwing axes, which predate the Viking era. Some Frankish axes may have made their way to the Norse lands. The Norse sagas also tell us about some incredibly clever moves that Vikings made with their axes. For example, in one story, the Viking warrior Thrandr jumped up and swung his axe head over the wall of a fortification. He then proceeded to cut Hrafn's arm with it. The Eyrbyggja saga does not describe the details of the fortification, so this is not a definitive proof that a Viking cross axe is Christian.
The shape of the Viking cross axes helped them to be easily wielded. The cross-section was usually wedge-shaped or diamond-shaped, and the curved edge absorbed a great deal of force. This made it a great weapon in combat because it could punch through mail and helmets. Some Viking cross axes even managed to slice down to the shoulders. Aside from being strong, the shape also allowed for several other uses. For instance, it could be used to hook an opponent's ankle or even throw him to the ground.
Functions
Viking cross axes had different functions, including being a weapon of attack and defense. Some Viking axes were small and could be hidden under a cloak. The axes were also used for hooking. Some Vikings used them to drag opponents or to hook the edge of a shield. One legend tells of a man named Askmadr running around his opponent to try to hook the opponent's shield.
The head of a Viking axe was thin, making it ideal for splitting skulls. The steel bit was welded onto an iron head, and the wrap was often symmetrical or asymmetrical. This welded steel bit made the head very powerful. However, metallurgy was not perfect during the Viking Age, so many of these weapons would break after prolonged use.
Some axes were decorated with precious stones. Some axeheads were gilded. This decoration was a way of proving one's status and riches. As a gift, a decorated axe was a sign that the king was pleased with the recipient.
Techniques
A Viking cross axe may have two different construction methods. The first involves shaping the blade. Depending on the material used, the axehead is either round, egg-shaped, or oval. The other technique involves securing the axehead using leather or a metal wedge. Both methods were used in Viking Age Europe.
The axes themselves were not large, but they were very heavy. A small axe could be hidden beneath a cloak. The Vikings used left-handed axes. The heads could be damaged by hard objects, but the axes themselves were useful for self-defense.
The Vikings built boats using simple tools, but their techniques were sophisticated. The main idea was to use the most strength possible for the least weight. They also used sawn timber. Saws are much harder to manufacture than axes, so they would generally cut timber across the grain. Consequently, the sawn timber would be weaker than the axe-cut timber.
The Vikings adapted a variety of different methods to attach the head of their axes. One method is to taper the haft, making it fit firmly on the shaft. Another method is to make the head of the axe curved. This helps transfer power efficiently.
Legends
In the legends of the Vikings, cross axes were used for both offensive and defensive purposes. They were used to slash and chop, and they were also used to hook the head of an opponent. One story tells of the axe's misuse by Gudmundr. In one battle, the axe was thrown, striking the opponent's bald head, and then tearing off his arm.
The head of the axe could easily break if it struck a hard object, but the haft could also be wrapped in metal to reduce the chances of breaking. In one famous instance, Hordur was surrounded by enemies. He struck them with his axe, killing six of them. In another story, a man named Hrappr smashed Asvardr's backbone in two, cutting him in two.
Axes were also used for offensive purposes, and in one legendary story, Thormodr used an axe with a specially hammered edge that could cleave Thord's skull open. The axe's curved edge made it possible for it to penetrate mail and helmets. In addition, the curved head made it possible to perform a wide range of offensive and defensive moves. An example of this is the Mammen axe head, which is decorated with gold and silver inlays.
Valknut
A Viking cross axe with the Valknut symbol is a very rare and valuable piece of Viking art. It represents bravery, courage and destiny. This symbol was used by the Norsemen, who fought the gods in the world. The Valknut also symbolizes life after death in northern mythology.
The Vikings forged their axes in many different sizes. A typical sized axe was one to five feet long. Each type had a different blade thickness. The Dane axes were thinner and had a big, curving cutting edge. This made them good for inflicting serious wounds and cutting leather armor. Bearded axes were thicker and heavier. They were useful for wood-cutting and splitting.
The Viking axe pendant is double-sided and is made of polished steel with an anti-rust finish. It measures 1.35 inches in diameter and comes with a genuine leather neck cord. Its symbolic design symbolizes the power of Odin and progression through the cycles of life. It is believed to protect the wearer from negative energies.
The Vikings believed in the power of symbols. In their ancient beliefs, all things were connected and bound to fate. They did not have a word for religion, but they did believe in cosmic forces and fate. As a result, many of their surviving stories are written in rune stones. They also engraved these symbols into their jewelry and longships.
Norse mythology
Axes, like other weapons of war, were used for offensive and defensive purposes. Axes are wider than a sword or spear point, and the axe haft could be wrapped in metal to prevent breakage. When used in a slashing attack, axes produce vicious wounds.
Axes were used by free men for defending their communities and families, and were used to fight against enemies. The Vikings could not afford to be idle for long, so they would carry a weapon with them at all times. During battle, a Viking would throw a spear over the enemy host, often in imitation of Odin's spear Gungnir. In addition, they would also throw stones and hand-axes to frighten their opponents.
A Viking cross axe resembles the axes of the god Odin. The axe is made of metal, which makes it extremely durable and is resistant to wear and tear. It also features a unique bird motif. In some versions, the axe features a rooster or a phoenix on its head. While these creatures are usually associated with Norse mythology, the bird motif can be considered a pagan symbol.
Norse mythology also features dragons, which were considered to be powerful and destructive. As a result, Viking longships were called 'dragon ships'. The bows of their boats often had dragons carved into them. Dragons were also often thought to be symbolic of a cosmic force. In one story, a giant dragon named Nidhoggr attacked the world's tree of life, Yggdrasil.