The Skeggøx: Meet the Viking’s Beloved and Ferocious Bearded Axe

The Viking Age took place from the years 793 to 1066. In that time, a variety of weaponry was developed, but none as notable as the bearded axe known to Norse as the Skeggøx.

In Old Norse, skegg translated to “beard” and øx to “axe”. Thus, the aptly named Skeggøx is known for its bearded blade that was creatively useful in combat and daily life alike.

Skeggøx’s Origins

We go to the year 600, before the Viking Age began, to find the first instances of the bearded axe that would become the go-to Scandinavian tool. It has been found that the bearded design was used in tools for agriculture, forestry, and woodworking. By the years 700-800 CE, the evolution into a weapon began as shown through grave finds in Denmark and Norway. It appears natural that as the Viking Age began and raiding expanded, the crafting of weaponry extended as well.

Axe Design

Look to the blade to identify a Skeggøx. They were designed to be lightweight and versatile, weighing only 1-4 lbs (0.5-2 kgs) with a 6-inch (15-cm) blade, though they were designed as small as 3-inch (7.5-cm) to 9-inch (22.5-cm) depending on the origin, time period, and use. The “beard” is the inner edge of the blade under the neck. In a Skeggøx, it has a drastic curve that gives it its distinct appearance.

The longer blades, 6-9 inches (15-22.5 cm) allowed for different use. The larger, heavier blade with a narrow edge enabled deeper cuts through armor in combat. The beard itself allowed for creative tactical use, hooking onto shields for control of an enemy’s main defense, or even disarming them entirely. In woodworking and shipbuilding, it would allow for easier shaping of timber.

Differences Between Bearded Axe and Other Axes of the Era

Bearded Axe	Dane Axe	Francisca Axe	Mammen Axe

Dane Axe

While there are reports of large Skeggøx blades up to 12-inches or 30-cm, these are likely Dane axes or broad axes. The Dane axe is designed to be two-handed with a larger blade, up to one foot in length, and used specifically for battle. They were heavier, around 2.2-4.4 lbs (1-2 kg), remaining lightweight but enhancing its power in combat. The long haft of  3-5 ft (90-150 cm) provided further leverage for devastating blows on the battlefield.

Francisca Axe

The francisca or francesca throwing axe was a weapon of the Franks. It was commonly used during the reign of Charlemagne (768-814 CE), overlapping with the start of the Viking Age. It also featured a beard, though shorter and less pronounced than the Skeggøx.

Mammen Axe

The Mammen Axe isn’t a type of axe, but an axe identified by its artistic styling. Named after a burial find from 970-71 CE in the village of Mammen in Denmark. An axe found here was made of iron with an intricate silver inlay. The style was prominent in the years 900-1000. Mammen Axes are the perfect Viking culture depiction, combining both art and war.

 

The Skeggøx Use in Combat

The Skeggøx was a tactical tool on the battlefield. Its style allowed versatility. The lightweight versions may have been used for throwing. 

Tactical Advantages

While not as deliberate as the Frank’s francisca axe, the size and weight allowed for this as a creative or last-ditch move. More commonly, the Skeggøx’s beard would hook onto shields or rip weapons out of their opponent’s hands. This could throw the opponent off-balance while exposing them without protection. That’s where the precision of a cut from the Skeggøx’s balanced weight and sharpened blade could land finishing blows. Held closer to the head of the axe, the Skeggøx becomes a dangerous weapon in close-quarters. It is truly a versatile tool for the Viking warrior.

Use in Daily Life

The Norse are well-known for their shipbuilding and woodworking, which the Skeggøx was used for extensively. The beard allowed for precise cuts and shaping of wood, whether for building a ship or home. Additionally, they were used in hunting to kill and process animals, including both butchering and skinning. And on the farm, the Skeggøx could help clear forests, chop down trees, and split logs for fire. It was a multifaceted tool at home, too.

A Significant Item for Every Viking

Axes were an important part of the Viking’s arsenal, and the Skeggøx was one of the most prominent axes of the time. Mentioned in the book of Viking poems, the Hávamál, axes were suggested to also be held close. It was common in burials to place an axe with the fallen warriors. From burials and archaeological digs, we’ve discovered that axes outnumbered swords three-to-one.

The Skeggøx remains a meaningful element in Viking culture, recognized by its distinct shape, and known for its versatility. While not the only axe used by Vikings, it’s worth being part of any Viking’s armory.