Dane Axe
The Viking two-handed battle axe
The Dane axe is a large two-handed battle-axe of the Viking age, featuring a broad crescent-shaped blade on a long shaft of 120-150cm. The blade width reaches up to 30cm, and its thin, wide design delivers cutting power rivaling swords. A weapon of the most valiant Viking elite warriors, it is famously depicted at the Battle of Hastings (1066), where Harold Godwinson's huscarls wielded Dane axes against Norman cavalry. The Bayeux Tapestry preserves images of warriors swinging these formidable weapons.
Origin
Developed in 9th-11th century Scandinavian Viking culture. Famous for its use by Anglo-Saxon huscarls against Norman cavalry at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Features
- Crescent-shaped broad blade — up to 30cm wide
- Long shaft 120-150cm — two-handed weapon
- Thin, wide blade for deep cutting power
- Iconic weapon of elite Viking warriors
- Depicted in the Bayeux Tapestry
- Blade weight approximately 1-2kg
Usage
The wide, sharp blade could split shields in half or sever horses' legs. Characterized by powerful two-handed sweeping cuts.
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