Viking Swords

While not a direct copy of any particular sword, the Viking sword design was inspired by historical examples from the early 9th Century, most notably finds from the area around Trondheim, Norway, where the circular indentation hilt decoration was popular. The scabbards are provided with suspension points and a period chape, giving the sheathed sword a very attractive appearance. The construction of the Viking "pair" differs from other swords in the Tinker series inasmuch as they are tang-riveted(peened) in period fashion at the pommel, primarily to satisfy Viking re-enactment requirements, and the blunt blade design is very much directed towards re-enactment rather than sparring. However, as with the other swords in the series, replacement blades are available (OH2419, OH2420) and Tinker is offering a blade-replacement and re-peening service for users unable to undertake the task themselves. Again, the handling characteristics of the two swords are virtually identical. CAS has commissioned Michael "Tinker" Pearce to design a line of swords that will satisfy both the sparring and cutting needs of Western Martial Arts practitioners. Matching sharp and blunt versions of each sword in the series offer the same outstanding handling characteristics in both disciplines. The swords meet Tinker`s exacting quality requirements and are built in much the same way as his custom pieces.

Named for the feared 8th century Viking raider, our Godfred Sword is built around a beautifully patterned folded steel blade to replicate the pre-9th century originals. The interwoven leather grip, complemented by a Damascus guard and pommel, is matched by the leather-covered wood scabbard with bronze detailing and integral belt hooks. Superbly balanced, due to the deeply fullered distal tapered blade profile, the Godfred is a true tribute to the legendary Norse smiths.

Hanwei continues to push the envelope with its forging capability in the Trondheim sword, produced as a one piece forging in pattern welded high carbon steel. Patterned after swords that have been discovered in the area around Trodheim, Norway, the sword exhibits early ninth-century styling, a time when the Norwegian Vikings were pillaging Britain and Ireland. The beauty of the blade is matched by the grip and scabbard, both of which are wrapped in top-grain leather, engraved in a classic Viking motif.