Hanwei Viking Sword “HARALD” – Sharpened Version Inspired by the 9th Century
The Viking sword “HARALD” was designed by Michael “Tinker” Pearce for Hanwei and forms part of a sword series developed to combine historical inspiration, functionality, performance and balanced handling. The blades in this series are made from 5160 spring steel, a material favoured by Tinker for these designs.
The Tinker series was developed with the differing requirements of Western sword practitioners and reenactors in mind. The swords were designed in both sharpened and blunt versions, with particular attention paid to keeping the weight, balance and handling characteristics of the corresponding versions as similar as possible. As a result, the sharpened and blunt versions of this early Viking sword offer nearly identical handling.
“HARALD” is the sharpened version. Rather than being a direct reproduction of one particular surviving sword or archaeological find, its design draws inspiration from various historical examples dating to the 9th century.
Sword finds from the Trondheim region of Norway provided particular inspiration for the hilt design. Examples discovered in this area show a preference for circular recesses as decorative elements on the hilts. This distinctive feature was incorporated into the design and contributes to the sword's characteristic Viking Age appearance.
The sharpened blade is made from 5160 spring steel and receives careful heat treatment using a marquenching process. This results in a Rockwell hardness of approximately 50–52 HRC and provides a balanced combination of strength and flexibility. On the sharpened version, the treatment also contributes to improved edge stability.
The grip is constructed around a wooden core and covered in leather. A peened pommel securely completes the construction, while the overall hilt combines functional handling with decorative features inspired by 9th-century swords.
A matching scabbard completes the sword. It features attachment points and a period-style chape, adding further historical character to the overall appearance.
The Viking swords within the Tinker series differ in certain construction details from the other swords in the range. In particular, the tang peening and blade of the blunt version were designed more specifically with reenactment combat in mind. Despite these differences, the sharpened and blunt versions were developed to provide very similar handling characteristics.
The construction of the series also allows suitably experienced users to replace peened blades. However, as “HARALD” is the sharpened version, this particular sword is not intended for reenactment or stage combat.
The sword is particularly suitable for collectors of historically inspired edged weapons and as an impressive display piece. It can also complement historical portrayals, reenactment and living history as well as photography, film and stage productions. Due to its sharpened blade, it must not be used for stage or reenactment combat.
Details
-
Type: Early Viking sword
-
Manufacturer: Hanwei
-
Design: Michael “Tinker” Pearce
-
Historical inspiration: 9th-century Viking swords, including finds from the Trondheim region
-
Blade: Sharpened
-
Blade material: 5160 spring steel / carbon steel, not stainless
-
Heat treatment: Marquenching
-
Blade hardness: approx. 50–52 HRC
-
Overall length: approx. 95 cm
-
Blade length: approx. 78.5 cm
-
Grip length: approx. 16.5 cm
-
Grip material: Wood with leather covering
-
Point of balance: approx. 12 cm in front of the guard
-
Blade vibration point: approx. 51.5 cm
-
Blade width at guard: approx. 5.5 cm
-
Blade width at tip: approx. 3.8 cm
-
Blade thickness at guard: approx. 5 mm
-
Blade thickness at tip: approx. 2.2 mm
-
Pommel: Peened
-
Scabbard: With attachment points and period-style chape
-
Weight: approx. 1250 g
The stated dimensions, weight and other specifications may vary slightly from piece to piece.
Version Notice
This model has a sharpened blade. Although the sharpened and blunt versions of the Tinker series were designed to offer very similar weight, balance and handling, the sharpened version offered here is not intended for stage or reenactment combat.
Care Instructions
The 5160 spring steel used for the blade is not stainless and may develop signs of corrosion when exposed to moisture. Keep the blade clean and dry after use and regularly apply a thin coat of suitable maintenance oil to protect the steel.
Age Restriction
This item is sold only to persons aged 18 years or older. Please provide your date of birth during the ordering process. Suitable proof of age is also required.
Safety Notice
This product has a sharpened blade and may have sharp cutting edges. Improper or careless use may result in injury.
German
