How the Vikings Transformed Simple Iron into Powerful Axes Through Fire Skill and Tradition
How Viking Axes Were Made in the Viking Age The making of Viking axes was a process that combined raw material mastery, blacksmithing skill,and cultural expression. From harvesting bog iron to forging deadly yet artistic weapons, Viking blacksmiths elevated axe-making to a craft deeply embedded in Norse society. 1. Selection and Preparation of Materials Bog Iron and Steel: Vikings relied on bog iron; a renewable ore collected from peat bogs. This iron was first roasted and smelted in bloomery furnaces to extract usable metal. With time, they also used steel (iron with more carbon) for cutting edges to enhance sharpness and durability. 2. Smelting and Forging Process Blade Forging: The extracted iron was heated in charcoal forges until pliable. Blacksmiths folded and hammered the metal repeatedly to remove impurities and increase strength. For better axes, a steel cutting edge was forge-welded onto the iron head. Welding and Shaping: The axe head was made by folding ir...
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