What Did the Vikings Use as Weapons?
The Vikings, a seafaring group of Norse warriors, are known for their bravery, skill, and ferocity in battle. Their weapon choices were often a reflection of their culture, technology, and fighting style. In this article, we’ll delve into the weapons used by the Vikings and explore their effectiveness in battle.
Early Weapons
During the Early Viking Age (8th-9th centuries), the Vikings used simple, primitive weapons. These included:
- Swords: Short, single-edged swords with a length of around 60-70 cm (24-28 inches).
- Spears: Long, heavy spears with a pointed tip and a length of around 2-3 meters (6-10 feet).
- Axes: Heavy, single-handed axes with a sharp blade and a wooden or metal handle.
- Shields: Wooden or metal shields used for protection and defense.
- Daggers: Short, double-edged daggers used for close combat.
Combat-Ready Weapons
As the Viking Age progressed, their weapons became more advanced and sophisticated. The following weapons were used during this period:
- Ulfberht Swords: High-carbon steel swords with a length of around 80-90 cm (32-36 inches), known for their strength and durability.
- Frankish Swords: Swords with a length of around 70-80 cm (28-32 inches), characterized by their long, slender blades and elaborate hilts.
- Bows and Arrows: Longbows and recurve bows with arrows tipped with iron or bronze points.
- Hammers: Heavy, one-handed hammers used for crushing and smashing.
- Throwing Spears: Lightweight, throwing spears with a pointed tip and a length of around 1-2 meters (3-6 feet).
Specialized Weapons
The Vikings also used specialized weapons for specific purposes:
- Pilum: A heavy javelin used for throwing and piercing armor.
- Scorpion: A multi-barreled crossbow used for ranged combat.
- Bardiche: A long-handled battle-axe used for chopping and hacking.
- Kusurik: A short, curved sword used for close combat and slashing.
Table: Viking Weaponry
| Weapon | Length | Material | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ulfberht Sword | 80-90 cm | High-carbon steel | Strong and durable |
| Frankish Sword | 70-80 cm | Steel or iron | Long, slender blade |
| Bow | – | Wood or sinew | Longbow or recurve |
| Throwing Spear | 1-2 meters | Wood or metal | Lightweight and pointed |
| Pilum | 1-2 meters | Iron or steel | Heavy and piercing |
Conclusion
The Vikings used a wide range of weapons, each designed for specific purposes and combat scenarios. From the early, primitive weapons to the advanced, specialized weapons of later periods, the Vikings’ weapon choices were shaped by their culture, technology, and fighting style. The Vikings’ ability to adapt and innovate in their weapon choices allowed them to be successful warriors and explorers, leaving a lasting impact on European history.
