What Did The Vikings Use As Weapons? Guide

Vikings, the Norse seafarers and warriors, dominated much of Northern Europe from the late 8th to the early 11th century; their military successes depended heavily on a variety of armaments. The Norse Sagas provide detailed accounts of Viking raids and battles, illustrating the era’s emphasis on martial prowess and detailing what did the Vikings use as weapons. The iconic Viking sword, often crafted with a pattern-welded blade, represented not only a tool for combat but also a symbol of status, reflecting the warrior's wealth and skill. Archaeological findings at sites such as Birka in Sweden reveal that axes, spears, and shields were also common among Viking warriors, indicating a diverse range of weaponry employed in their conquests and defenses.

The Edge of the North: Understanding Viking Warfare

The Viking Age, a period spanning roughly from the late 8th to the mid-11th century, witnessed a surge of Norse seafarers venturing from Scandinavia to raid, trade, and settle across vast territories. At the heart of their endeavors lay a culture steeped in warfare, a brutal reality that shaped their society and left an indelible mark on history. This was an age where the clash of steel echoed across coastlines and battlefields, defining the rise and influence of the Vikings.

The Primacy of Warfare in Viking Society

Warfare was not merely an occupation for the Vikings; it was a way of life. Raids provided resources, trade routes offered opportunities for expansion, and conquests established settlements. A warrior's prowess directly influenced their social standing and personal wealth. Successful campaigns translated into land ownership, accumulated riches, and elevated positions within the Viking hierarchy.

The Strategic Significance of Weaponry and Armor

Weaponry and armor were pivotal to the Viking military strategies. Battles were often decided by the effectiveness of weapons in close-quarters combat, where axes, swords, and spears were wielded with lethal precision. Armor, though sometimes limited, provided essential protection, allowing warriors to withstand attacks and maintain their fighting capacity.

Effective arms and armor allowed small bands of Viking warriors to project power far beyond their homelands, instilling fear in their enemies and securing dominance on land and sea. Their understanding of naval combat, combined with well-crafted weaponry, allowed them to control coastal regions and navigate waterways, further amplifying their impact.

Weapons as Indicators of Status and Wealth

In Viking society, the quality and craftsmanship of one's weapons and armor were visual declarations of status and wealth. A simple axe might suffice for a common farmer turned warrior, but a finely crafted sword, adorned with intricate designs, signified a man of high social standing, such as a chieftain or a seasoned warrior.

Elaborate helmets, sturdy shields, and chainmail were symbols of affluence, often passed down through generations as treasured heirlooms. Possessing superior weaponry not only enhanced a warrior's combat effectiveness but also reflected their ability to afford the best tools of war, underscoring their position within the social hierarchy.

The sagas are filled with references to named swords and axes, each imbued with its own history and significance, further highlighting the cultural importance placed on these instruments of war. These prized possessions were not just tools; they were extensions of the warrior's identity, symbols of honor, and testaments to their lineage.

Forged for Battle: A Deep Dive into Viking Weaponry

This section provides an in-depth exploration of the diverse arsenal used by Viking warriors. Each weapon will be examined in detail, covering its construction, types, tactical use, and significance within Viking culture.

The Sword: Symbol of Power and Prestige

The sword held a position of unique importance in Viking society, extending beyond its function as a weapon of war. It was a potent symbol of status, wealth, and lineage. The quality, craftsmanship, and ornamentation of a sword served as a clear indicator of a warrior's social standing.

Construction of Viking Swords

Viking swords were typically constructed using a sophisticated pattern-welding technique. This involved forging together strips of iron and steel, creating a blade that was both strong and flexible.

The process demanded considerable skill and expertise from the smith, reflecting the high value placed on these weapons. Hilts and pommels were often adorned with precious metals and intricate designs, further enhancing their status.

Types and Uses of Viking Swords

While variations existed, the typical Viking sword was a single-handed weapon with a double-edged blade, designed for cutting and thrusting. Different types of swords, such as the Ulfberht swords renowned for their superior steel quality, existed.

These superior weapons were symbols of immense prestige. Swords were employed in a variety of combat scenarios, from open battlefields to shipboard raids.

Social and Symbolic Meaning

Beyond its practical applications, the sword held deep social and symbolic meaning in Viking culture. Swords were often given names and passed down through generations as treasured heirlooms, embodying the honor and history of a family.

The sagas are replete with references to famous swords, each imbued with its own unique story and significance. The sword was more than just a weapon; it was an extension of the warrior's identity.

The Axe: Versatile Tool of War and Peace

The axe was a ubiquitous tool in Viking society, serving both practical and martial purposes. Its versatility made it an indispensable item for everyday tasks.

Axes were used for woodworking and construction, as well as a readily available weapon in times of conflict. This dual functionality ensured its widespread adoption across all social classes.

Types of Viking Axes

Vikings employed a variety of axes, each designed for specific tasks and combat roles. Hand axes, characterized by their compact size and ease of handling, were common sidearms.

The fearsome Dane axe, with its long haft and heavy head, was a devastating weapon capable of cleaving through shields and armor. Other specialized axes existed for woodworking and shipbuilding.

Tactical Applications in Battle

In battle, the axe was a formidable weapon, capable of delivering powerful blows. The Dane axe, wielded by skilled warriors, could break enemy formations and inflict serious injuries.

Hand axes were useful for close-quarters combat, offering a balance of speed and power. The axe's versatility made it a valuable asset in a variety of combat situations.

The Spear: A Thrust of Deadly Efficiency

The spear was a common and highly effective weapon in the Viking arsenal. Simpler and more affordable than swords, spears were accessible to a wider range of warriors.

Its versatility allowed for both thrusting and throwing, making it a valuable weapon in a variety of combat situations. The spear was often used in conjunction with shields, forming a formidable defensive and offensive combination.

Design and Construction

Viking spears typically consisted of a wooden shaft topped with an iron or steel spearhead. The spearheads varied in shape and size, depending on their intended use.

Some spearheads were designed for thrusting, with long, narrow points, while others were designed for throwing, with broader, heavier heads. The construction of a spear was relatively simple.

Tactical Usage

Spears were used in a variety of tactical formations, including the shield wall. In this formation, warriors stood shoulder-to-shoulder, using their shields to protect themselves while thrusting with their spears.

Spears were also used as missile weapons, thrown at the enemy to disrupt their formations or inflict casualties. The spear's versatility made it a valuable asset on the battlefield.

The Seax (Sax): The Viking's Utility Blade

The seax, or sax, was a single-edged knife or short sword common among Vikings. It served as both a tool and a weapon, making it a versatile and practical item for everyday use.

Prevalence and Social Class

Unlike the sword, which was primarily a symbol of wealth and status, the seax was prevalent among Vikings of all social classes. Its affordability and utility made it an accessible weapon for farmers, merchants, and warriors alike.

The seax was often carried as a sidearm, providing a readily available means of self-defense. It was also used for a variety of everyday tasks, such as cutting food, preparing materials, and crafting tools.

Variations in Size and Design

Seaxes varied in size and design, ranging from small knives to larger blades approaching the length of a short sword. The shape of the blade also varied, with some seaxes featuring straight edges.

Others had curved or angled blades. These variations reflected the diverse uses to which the seax was put, as well as regional preferences and individual styles.

Bows and Arrows: Ranged Assault from Afar

Bows and arrows were used by Vikings for both hunting and warfare. While not as prominent as other weapons like swords and axes, bows provided a crucial ranged attack capability.

Materials and Construction

Viking bows were typically made of wood, such as yew, ash, or elm. The construction involved carefully shaping and seasoning the wood to create a bow that was both strong and flexible.

Bowstrings were typically made of linen, hemp, or animal sinew. Arrows consisted of a wooden shaft, a stone or metal arrowhead, and feathers for fletching.

Effective Range and Power

The effective range and power of Viking bows varied depending on the materials and construction techniques used. However, skilled archers could accurately hit targets at a considerable distance.

Arrows could be used to harass enemy formations, pick off individual targets, or deliver volleys of fire. While not as decisive as close-quarters combat weapons, bows and arrows played an important role in Viking warfare.

Slings: A Simple but Potent Projectile

The sling was a simple yet effective projectile weapon used by Vikings. Despite its simplicity, the sling could deliver stones or other projectiles with considerable force and accuracy.

Materials and Construction

Viking slings were typically made of leather or woven fabric. The construction involved creating a pouch to hold the projectile.

The pouch was attached to two cords, which were used to swing the sling and release the projectile. Stones were the most common type of ammunition used with slings.

Accuracy and Range

The accuracy and range of slings depended on the skill of the slinger and the type of projectile used. Skilled slingers could accurately hit targets at a distance.

Slings were particularly effective as harassment weapons, used to disrupt enemy formations or inflict casualties from afar. The sling's simplicity and availability made it a practical weapon for Viking warriors.

Guardians of Steel: Viking Armor and Defensive Tactics

This section explores the defensive measures employed by Viking warriors, focusing on armor and tactical formations. We will delve into the construction, materials, and application of shields, helmets, chainmail, and padded armor, revealing how these elements contributed to Viking combat effectiveness and survival.

Shields: The Bulwark of the Viking Shield Wall

The shield was arguably the most crucial piece of defensive equipment for a Viking warrior. Its importance extended beyond individual protection, forming the backbone of the renowned shield wall formation.

Construction and Materials

Viking shields were typically round, constructed from overlapping wooden planks, often lime, fir, or pine, chosen for their lightness and workability. These planks were held together by iron bands or staves on the rear of the shield.

The shield's face was often covered in leather or rawhide to enhance durability and prevent splitting. A central hand grip, usually a simple wooden or iron bar, allowed for easy maneuverability.

Some shields featured an iron boss in the center, providing additional protection for the hand. The shield's edge could be reinforced with leather or metal to prevent splintering from blows.

Tactical Usage

The shield wall was a defensive formation where warriors stood shoulder-to-shoulder, overlapping their shields to create a nearly impenetrable barrier. This formation protected against missile attacks and allowed for a coordinated defense against advancing enemies.

In individual combat, the shield was used to deflect blows, create openings for attacks, and even bash opponents off balance. The shield's versatility made it an indispensable tool for both offense and defense.

Helmets: Protecting the Head in the Heat of Battle

While romanticized depictions often show Vikings with horned helmets, archaeological evidence suggests that the most common type of helmet was the nasal helmet. This provided crucial head protection without hindering visibility or mobility.

Design and Construction of Nasal Helmets

Nasal helmets were typically constructed from iron or steel, shaped into a conical or rounded form. The defining feature was a single iron or steel bar extending down the front of the helmet to protect the nose and upper face.

The helmet's construction was relatively simple, consisting of a single piece of metal or multiple plates riveted together. Some helmets may have included cheek guards or a mail aventail (a curtain of chainmail) for added protection.

Level of Protection

Nasal helmets offered significant protection against blows to the head and face. While not as comprehensive as later medieval helmets, they were effective in deflecting many types of attacks.

The nasal bar protected the nose, a vulnerable target, and helped to deflect blows away from the face. The helmet's overall design provided a reasonable degree of protection while allowing for good visibility and maneuverability.

Chainmail (Byrnies): The Mark of a Wealthy Warrior

Chainmail, also known as a byrnie, was a sophisticated and expensive form of armor. Its cost made it accessible only to the wealthiest Viking warriors, such as chieftains and professional soldiers.

Construction of Chainmail Byrnies

Chainmail was constructed from thousands of interlocking iron or steel rings, each individually riveted closed. The process of creating a byrnie was time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring the skills of a master smith.

The rings were arranged in a pattern that allowed for flexibility and movement while providing a dense layer of protection. A typical byrnie could weigh between 15 and 30 pounds.

Protection and Maintenance

Chainmail offered excellent protection against cutting and piercing weapons. The interlocking rings absorbed and dispersed the force of blows, preventing them from penetrating the wearer's body.

However, chainmail was vulnerable to crushing blows and required regular maintenance to prevent rust and damage. Damaged rings had to be replaced to maintain the armor's integrity.

Gambesons (Padded Armor): Comfort and Impact Absorption

A gambeson was a padded jacket or tunic worn underneath chainmail or other armor. While it could be worn alone as a form of light armor, its primary purpose was to provide comfort and absorb impact from blows.

Materials and Construction

Gambesons were typically made from layers of linen, wool, or other fabrics, stitched together to create a thick, padded layer. The padding helped to distribute the force of blows, reducing the risk of injury.

The construction of a gambeson involved carefully layering and stitching the fabric to create a uniform thickness and density. The jacket was often quilted to prevent the padding from shifting or bunching up during combat.

Contribution to Protection and Wearability

Gambesons significantly enhanced the comfort and wearability of chainmail. The padding prevented the mail from rubbing against the skin, reducing chafing and discomfort.

More importantly, gambesons absorbed and dispersed the energy of impacts, reducing the risk of blunt force trauma. By combining chainmail with a gambeson, Viking warriors could achieve a balance of protection, comfort, and mobility.

The Smith's Art: Metallurgy and Forging in the Viking Age

Viking weaponry and armor were not merely products of brute force, but rather the result of sophisticated metallurgical knowledge and skillful forging techniques. The creation of these tools of war was a highly specialized craft, demanding both technical expertise and artistic vision. This section explores the crucial role of metallurgy and forging in the Viking Age, detailing the processes involved in transforming raw materials into formidable implements of combat.

Metallurgy: The Foundation of Viking Arms

Metallurgy, the science of working with metals, formed the bedrock of Viking weapon and armor production. It was through the understanding of metal properties and processing techniques that Viking smiths were able to create tools that were both strong and durable.

The general process involved extracting metals from ores, refining them to remove impurities, and then alloying them to achieve desired characteristics. This process was both complex and demanding, requiring a deep understanding of chemical reactions and material science.

The Importance of Metallurgy

Metallurgy was crucial for several reasons. First, it enabled the production of weapons and armor that were far superior to those made from stone or bronze. Iron and steel, the primary metals used by Vikings, were significantly stronger and more durable, allowing for the creation of sharper blades and more resilient armor.

Second, metallurgy allowed for the customization of metal properties. By alloying iron with other elements, such as carbon, Viking smiths could create steel with varying degrees of hardness and flexibility, optimizing it for specific applications.

Finally, metallurgy was essential for the repair and maintenance of weapons and armor. Viking smiths were skilled at repairing damaged items, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for costly replacements.

Metals Used by Viking Smiths

The most common metal used by Viking smiths was iron, readily available in various forms throughout Scandinavia. Bog iron, a type of iron ore found in wetlands, was a particularly important source. However, iron alone was not sufficient for creating high-quality weapons.

Steel, an alloy of iron and carbon, was highly prized for its superior strength and hardness. Viking smiths used various techniques to carburize iron, increasing its carbon content and transforming it into steel.

Other metals, such as copper, tin, and silver, were used for decorative purposes, adding aesthetic value to weapons and armor. These metals were often inlaid into the surface of iron or steel, creating intricate patterns and designs.

Forging: Shaping Steel with Fire and Hammer

Forging was the process of shaping metal using heat and hammering. It was a physically demanding and highly skilled craft, requiring years of training and experience. Viking smiths used a variety of tools and techniques to transform raw metal into functional and aesthetically pleasing objects.

Techniques of Viking Forging

The process began with heating the metal in a forge, a specialized furnace that could reach high temperatures. The smith would use bellows to force air into the forge, increasing the intensity of the fire.

Once the metal was sufficiently heated, it was placed on an anvil, a heavy iron block used as a working surface. The smith would then use a variety of hammers, tongs, and other tools to shape the metal.

Hammering was used to flatten, bend, and stretch the metal. Punching and drifting were used to create holes. Welding was used to join separate pieces of metal together.

Viking smiths were particularly skilled at pattern welding, a technique used to create intricate patterns in sword blades. This involved layering different types of steel together and then twisting and folding the metal to create a visually striking effect.

Skills and Knowledge of a Viking Smith

Becoming a Viking smith required years of apprenticeship and the acquisition of specialized knowledge. Smiths needed to understand the properties of different metals, the principles of heat treatment, and the techniques of forging and welding.

They also needed to be skilled at using a variety of tools, including hammers, tongs, chisels, and files. In addition to technical skills, Viking smiths needed to be creative and artistic. They were responsible for designing and decorating weapons and armor, adding personal touches that reflected their skill and craftsmanship.

Tempering and Finishing

Once a weapon or piece of armor was forged into shape, it needed to be tempered to achieve the desired hardness and flexibility. Tempering involved reheating the metal to a specific temperature and then cooling it rapidly, often by quenching it in water or oil.

This process altered the internal structure of the metal, making it harder and more resistant to wear. However, tempering could also make the metal more brittle, so it was important to carefully control the temperature and cooling rate.

The final step in the process was finishing. This involved grinding and polishing the metal to remove imperfections and create a smooth, shiny surface. Decorative elements, such as inlaid metal or carved designs, were also added at this stage.

Elite Warriors: The Mindset and Styles of Viking Combat

Viking warfare was not solely a matter of weaponry and armor; it was also deeply intertwined with the mindset and fighting styles of its warriors. Within Viking society, certain individuals stood out as elite combatants, embodying unique roles and contributing significantly to the success of Viking warbands. This section delves into the world of these elite warriors, focusing on the Berserkers and Húskarlls, their distinctive combat styles, and the psychological dimensions of Viking warfare.

Berserkers: Warriors in a Battle Trance

The Berserkers represent perhaps the most iconic and fearsome image of the Viking warrior. These individuals were renowned for entering a trance-like state during battle, exhibiting unparalleled ferocity and disregard for personal safety.

The origin of the term "Berserker" is often attributed to the Old Norse words "berr" (bare) and "serkr" (shirt), suggesting they may have fought without armor, clad only in animal skins. However, alternative theories propose the term refers to being "bear-shirted", alluding to a spiritual connection with the bear, embodying its strength and aggression.

The Berserker State

The Berserkergang, or battle trance, was a defining characteristic. Accounts describe them foaming at the mouth, howling like animals, and becoming impervious to pain. The exact nature of this state remains a subject of debate, with theories ranging from drug-induced frenzy to psychological conditioning and spiritual beliefs. Regardless of its cause, the Berserkergang transformed these warriors into terrifying forces on the battlefield, capable of inspiring both fear in their enemies and awe in their allies.

Role and Impact on the Battlefield

Berserkers were often deployed as shock troops, leading the charge and breaking enemy lines. Their unpredictable behavior and raw power made them difficult to counter, creating opportunities for the rest of the Viking warband to exploit. While their effectiveness in battle was undeniable, their uncontrollable rage could also be a liability, making them difficult to command and potentially dangerous to their own comrades.

Húskarlls: The Professional Warriors

In contrast to the frenzied Berserkers, the Húskarlls represented a more disciplined and professional class of Viking warrior. "Húskarll" literally translates to "house man" or "member of the household," indicating their role as the personal retinue and bodyguards of powerful chieftains and kings.

These warriors were typically drawn from the ranks of experienced and loyal fighters, often bound to their lord by oaths of fealty and service.

Training and Equipment

Húskarlls underwent rigorous training in various combat techniques, mastering the use of swords, axes, spears, and shields. They were generally better equipped than the average Viking warrior, often possessing superior armor, including chainmail, and high-quality weapons. Their equipment reflected their status and the resources of their lord.

Tactical Role and Importance

The Húskarlls served as a crucial component of Viking armies. They formed the core of the warband, providing a stable and disciplined fighting force around which other warriors could rally.

They were responsible for protecting their leader, maintaining order on the battlefield, and executing complex tactical maneuvers. Their loyalty, training, and superior equipment made them highly effective soldiers, playing a vital role in Viking military successes.

Tactics and Formations

Viking warfare was not solely reliant on individual prowess; it also involved the use of tactics and formations to maximize their effectiveness in battle. While accounts vary and tactical nuances likely existed, some common strategies can be discerned.

The Shield Wall: A Defensive Bulwark

The shield wall was a common defensive formation, where warriors stood shoulder to shoulder, overlapping their shields to create an impenetrable barrier. This formation provided protection against missile attacks and allowed the Vikings to present a united front to the enemy.

Wedge Formation: Breaking the Lines

The wedge formation was designed to break through enemy lines. Warriors arranged themselves in a triangular shape, with the strongest and most experienced fighters at the front. This formation aimed to penetrate the enemy ranks, disrupting their formation and creating chaos.

Use of Terrain and Surprise

Viking warriors were adept at utilizing terrain to their advantage, employing ambushes and flanking maneuvers to surprise their opponents. Their knowledge of the landscape and their ability to navigate difficult terrain allowed them to dictate the terms of engagement and gain a tactical edge.

The Psychology of Viking Warfare

Beyond the physical aspects of combat, Viking warfare was deeply influenced by psychological factors. The Vikings understood the power of fear and intimidation, using it to demoralize their enemies and gain an advantage in battle.

The War Cry: Inspiring Fear

The war cry was a common tactic used to instill fear in the enemy. Viking warriors would unleash a deafening roar before engaging in battle, designed to unnerve their opponents and project an image of overwhelming aggression.

Reputation and Legend

The Vikings placed great value on reputation and valor. Warriors sought to establish a fearsome reputation through their deeds in battle, inspiring both respect and terror in those they encountered. The sagas and Eddas are filled with tales of legendary warriors whose exploits served to further enhance the mystique and fear associated with Viking combat.

Cult of the Warrior

Viking society fostered a cult of the warrior, where martial prowess was highly valued and glorified. Warriors who died in battle were believed to be transported to Valhalla, Odin's hall, where they would feast and fight for eternity. This belief system encouraged warriors to embrace death in combat, further enhancing their ferocity and willingness to take risks.

Legacy of Steel: Viking Weaponry in History and Legend

The preceding sections have detailed the diverse and sophisticated nature of Viking weaponry and armor. It is now crucial to consider the enduring legacy of these tools of war, both in terms of their direct impact on historical events and their continuing influence on our imagination. Viking arms were not merely instruments of destruction; they were integral to the rise and expansion of Viking society, and their echoes resonate even today.

A Summary of Viking Arms

Before delving into the legacy, a concise recap is warranted. Viking weaponry was characterized by its practicality, versatility, and effectiveness.

Swords, axes, spears, seaxes, bows, and slings each served distinct roles on the battlefield and in daily life.

Armor, ranging from simple shields to elaborate chainmail, provided crucial protection, though its availability varied according to wealth and status. The skills of Viking smiths, their knowledge of metallurgy, and their forging techniques were essential to creating these formidable tools.

The Impact on Viking Military Success

Viking weaponry played a decisive role in their military successes. The combination of effective weaponry, skilled warriors, and innovative tactics allowed them to raid, conquer, and colonize vast territories across Europe and beyond.

The axe, in particular, became synonymous with Viking warriors, its fearsome reputation amplified by its versatility in both close-quarters combat and siege warfare. The shield wall, a testament to their tactical acumen, maximized the defensive capabilities of their shields, creating a near-impenetrable barrier against enemy attacks.

The mobility afforded by their longships, coupled with the martial prowess of their warriors, enabled them to strike quickly and decisively, often overwhelming their opponents. Viking arms were therefore instrumental in shaping the political and social landscape of the Viking Age.

The Enduring Legacy

The legacy of Viking weaponry extends far beyond the battlefield.

Their impact can be observed across various domains, including historical accounts, archaeological findings, and popular culture.

Historical Accounts and Archaeological Evidence

Historical sources, such as the Norse sagas and chronicles written by contemporary observers, provide invaluable insights into the types of weapons used by Vikings, their tactical deployment, and their cultural significance.

Archaeological discoveries, including weapon burials, battlefield sites, and settlement excavations, offer tangible evidence of Viking arms and armor. The unearthing of the Gokstad and Oseberg ships, for example, revealed elaborate weaponry and equipment that underscored the high status afforded to Viking warriors and their tools of war.

These artifacts not only corroborate the historical narratives but also provide detailed information about the craftsmanship, materials, and technologies employed by Viking smiths.

Viking Arms in Modern Popular Culture

The imagery of Viking warriors and their weaponry continues to captivate the modern imagination. From historical fiction to video games, the figure of the Viking warrior, armed with sword and axe, is a recurring motif.

These depictions, while often romanticized, reflect the enduring appeal of Viking culture and the mystique surrounding their weapons of war. Movies and TV shows frequently showcase Viking arms, contributing to a broader public awareness, albeit sometimes embellished, of their historical significance.

However, these fictional portrayals also risk perpetuating inaccuracies, emphasizing the importance of consulting reliable historical sources when exploring Viking weaponry.

The Significance of Viking Warfare

Viking warfare was a defining aspect of the Viking Age. The weapons they wielded were more than mere tools.

They were symbols of power, status, and cultural identity.

Their military successes reshaped the political map of Europe, leaving a lasting impact on the social and cultural development of many regions.

The legacy of Viking warfare extends beyond its historical consequences. It continues to inspire awe and fascination, serving as a reminder of the complex interplay between technology, culture, and conflict in shaping the course of human history.

So, next time you're imagining a Viking raid, you can picture the scene a little more accurately. From the iconic sword to the humble axe and even the occasional rock, what did the Vikings use as weapons was a diverse arsenal born of necessity and ingenuity. It's a brutal but fascinating glimpse into their world, isn't it?