Overview and Specifications
The Danish War Axe by Arms and Armor is priced at $350 USD and available through Arms and Armor's website or Cult of Athena. Based on a 10th-11th century artifact recovered from the River Thames and housed in the British Museum, this reproduction features a thin, light blade optimized for combat rather than wood processing.
Blade Design and Construction
The reproduction employs a simple convex grind toward the edge, diverging from the original's pronounced taper and ridge visible near the cutting edge. The thin blade profile prioritizes maneuverability and cutting efficiency against flesh and bone over splitting capability.
Assembly and Shaft Design
The axe head is secured through traditional friction-based joinery: the shaft features a cutout where the head is placed, a wedge is driven into the gap to expand the wood, and excess material is trimmed at dual angles. The rectangular shaft with rounded corners provides both comfort and tactile feedback for edge alignment.
Handling and Versatility
Despite its impressive size, the weapon remains remarkably light and agile, enabling hand position variation for either maximum nimbleness or cutting power. This versatility allows rapid directional changes and recovery between strikes without the clumsiness typical of heavier one-handed axes.
Cutting Performance Testing
Testing demonstrated exceptional cutting capability: the axe delivered clean, precise cuts through water bottles and cornstarch-filled vessels, and successfully penetrated heavy leather that resisted dedicated swords. Against mail armor, the weapon cleaved through riveted rings with considerable force.
Armor Penetration and Combat Effectiveness
Testing on riveted mail revealed the axe's devastating potential against historical battlefield armor, inflicting major structural damage and creating wounds that would likely prove fatal. The weapon's reputation as a fearsome martial implement is substantiated by its ability to bypass protective equipment while remaining user-friendly.
Edge Quality and Grinding
The reproduction arrives with an adequate but not exceptional edge; re-sharpening improves initial performance. The convex grind is even and well-executed, generating minimal friction and enabling the blade to penetrate effectively when edge alignment is maintained.
Market Position and Alternatives
The Arms and Armor Danish War Axe represents the most readily available and competitively priced production option on the market. While custom axe makers offer superior execution, their significantly higher costs and extended lead times make this reproduction the practical choice for most practitioners.
Review: Danish War Axe by Arms & Armor - Cuts like a polesword (technical term :p)
Key Takeaways
- •Overview and Specifications
- •Blade Design and Construction
- •Assembly and Shaft Design
- •Handling and Versatility
*** Specifications *** Overall length: 133 cm / 52.25'' Blade length (edge): 27 cm / 10.6'' Blade width (shaft to edge): 19.5 cm / 7.6'' Blade thickness: 3 mm Weight: 1200 g / 2.6 lbs Blade material: Unknown high carbon steel Handle material: Ash wood Price: 360 USD *** Pros / Cons *** + Currently the highest quality production dane axe + Cuts remarkably well + Great handling - Eye of the axe head not completely filled - Standard edge could be sharper *** Where to get it *** https://www.kultofathena.com/product/arms-armor-danish-war-axe/?koa=259 ******************************************************************************** My favorite online store for buying swords (worldwide shipping): http://ww4.aitsafe.com/go.htm?go=kultofathena.com&afid=28632&tm=14&im=1 Channel-related shirts and stuff: http://skallagrim.spreadshirt.com/ Some recommended knife makers on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1qjwMNL Want to help fund future videos? http://www.patreon.com/skallagrim My Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SkallagrimYT
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard javelin technique?
This video covers overview and specifications, blade design and construction, assembly and shaft design. It provides detailed instruction from Skallagrim.
How long does it take to learn standard javelin technique?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard javelin technique?
The reproduction arrives with an adequate but not exceptional edge; re-sharpening improves initial performance. The convex grind is even and well-executed, generating minimal friction and enabling the blade to penetrate effectively when edge alignment is maintained.
