Elk Seax

I forged this blade for myself to carry while vending at festivals. What better way to advertise than by hanging your products right on your belt?

The broken backed seax is indigenous to the British Isles in the latter stages of the Viking Age. These blades would be suitable as a sidearm or primary weapon. While langseaxes were a ubiquitous weapon through Europe during this time period, this particular shape, with its sudden change in angle along the spine, is an entirely British phenomenon.

The blade of this piece is perfectly within the bounds of historical accuracy in terms of size. It has a thick spine of almost 1/4 inch and very little distal taper. In spite of that, it is quite nimble and light. The natural, yet comfortable, elk antler grip counterbalances it nicely. The blade widens ever so slightly from the base until reaching the break in the back, from whence it tapers severely to an excellent point for thrusting. As most originals were forged from iron or lower carbon steels, the 5160 steel used in forging this blade is actually much more durable than is accurate for history.

The hilt on this piece is historically inspired, if not perfectly accurate. Pommel plates as are featured on this piece are exceedingly rare, though not unheard of. The single brass cross pin, which is almost invisible, is an outright inaccuracy; but was added as an extra assurance of durability.

The sheath is made from heavy vegetable tanned leather and held together with bronzed rivets. The belt loops, which suspend the blade horizontally, are attached via bronze rings and rivets. The Thornfire rune is carved on both sides of the sheath, along with some serpent scale motifs.