Viking Axes for Combat
Vikings carried sturdy axes for throwing or melee combat. The Mammen Axe suited both. Axes had iron heads with steel edges, making them affordable weapons. Vikings used axes alongside swords, spears, bows, and shields. Some chieftains wore mail coats. Most relied on shields. Viking axes were one to five feet long. Some had engraved designs. Axes underscored Vikings’ versatile combat tactics.
Throwing Axes for Ranged Attacks
Throwing axes, like the Frankish francisca, were used. Their wide, curved blades and short handles made them good for throwing. Secondary weapons like these provided versatile ranged options, especially effective in naval battles and surprise attacks. Skill was needed to throw them accurately before close combat.
Revival of Viking Weapons
Viking ships were often burned in funerals. Vikings forged single-headed axes. The Mammen Axe head had precious metal decorations. Most axe heads were wedge-shaped with some ornamentation. Though Vikings fought for survival, they probably didn’t throw axes for sport. Modern axe-throwing revives Viking weapons.