Product description
The huscarl skeggox was a very popular type of axe in the Middle Ages. It likely originated during the Roman Iron Age in Central Europe and, from the seventh century onward, was used throughout Northwest Europe. This axe is based on originals found in Scandinavia, England, Scotland, and Ireland.
This type of axe head is classified as Petersen type C. The blade has an extremely pronounced beard, with a broad flaring section behind the eye, making it one of the most striking forms of bearded axes. It is a further development of bearded axes that had been used since the Late Roman period. Most examples have been found in Sweden, a few in Norway, but none have been discovered in the United Kingdom. This type of axe was likely used primarily as a battle axe, as the connection to the haft is relatively thin compared to a typical wood-cutting axe. Axes of this type may have originally been developed by the Slavic peoples of the Baltic region.
The “beard” — the downward-extending part of the blade — provided a larger cutting surface without making the axe heavier. Thanks to this design, the user could grip the haft just behind the head for woodworking or shaving wood. In combat, the beard also had tactical advantages: it could be used to hook or pull an opponent’s shield or weapon.
This axe comes with a dark wooden haft. The blade is made of carbon steel with a hand-forged appearance, making this axe a beautiful historical reproduction.
