During the Viking Age from 793 - 1066 AD, Nordic seamen traveled the oceans far and wide to trade, raid, and conquer the various regions and peoples they came across. These Scandinavian adventurers have long been subjects of interest to history and reenactment buffs alike. As with most historical time periods and events, we often learn the most about Vikings from their methods of warfare and styles of weaponry.

A familiar theme throughout history, the wars and conquests of Vikings were often inspired by their religious beliefs and customs. In Norse religion, the most influential god figures in Viking culture were Thor, god of war; and Odin, god of death. And in the name of war and death they did fight.

In battles fueled by the violent commands of their gods (that some historians believe fueled by hallucinogens and alcohol), Norse warriors would rage against their enemy in a chaotic bombardment of flailing weapons and bodies. This reckless and entranced method of waging war, with little to no conscious regard for personal safety, was known as going berserk. Viking warriors - known also as berserks or berserkers - would enter battle wildly erratically, often taking their alarmed and confused opponents entirely off guard.

While there is much to be said for the element of surprise, the ultimate success of going berserk on an enemy had much to do with the quality of Viking weapons. According to Nordic lore, a Viking’s social status was dependent upon both the quality and quantity of weapons he owned and carried. Free Norsemen were sure to always be armed in order to display their wealth and potential combat strength, while maintaining ever vigilant in case of a fight. The more heavily armed the Viking, the higher his social rank.

Having taken place after the historical Germanic Iron Age, the weaponry of the Viking Age relied heavily upon technological developments of that time. Ironworking and casting were the primary modes of forging Viking weapons and armor. When taking part in Viking Age reenactments, make sure you've got the right weapons for the time.

Featured Viking Gear from Armory Replicas include a featured hand-forged German High Carbon Steel Knife - often referred to as “the Viking Knife” - modeled after historical Iron Age replica weapons. This gear is historically accurate, with a razor sharp edge that is as intimidating as it is deadly. You won’t be ready to go berserk without the proper weapons!