Vendel Sword “ULTUNA” – Magnificent Reconstruction of a Swedish Boat-Grave Find
The Vendel sword “ULTUNA” is a reconstruction of a finely crafted and richly decorated sword discovered at a ship burial site near Uppsala in Sweden. Dating to the 7th–8th century, the historical model belongs to the Vendel Period, an era of Swedish history between the Migration Period and the Viking Age.
Because of its elaborate and sophisticated decoration, the original is believed to have served as a prestige or ceremonial weapon belonging to a Swedish tribal prince, nobleman or elite warrior. Numerous archaeological finds from the Vendel Period demonstrate the exceptionally high standard of craftsmanship achieved during this era.
Classic Nordic One-Handed Sword
In its overall form, the sword is a classic example of a Nordic weapon of this period. Its straight, double-edged blade is forged from EN45 spring steel and features a broad fuller.
The edges are explicitly supplied unsharpened. The full-length blade tang extends through the hilt and is peened at the pommel.
Elaborately Decorated Brass Hilt
The richly decorated hilt is one of the defining features of this reconstruction. The guard, measuring approximately 9 cm in length and 1.5 cm in thickness, and the generously proportioned pommel are made from brass with an antique finish.
The highly detailed engraved motifs and patterns have been reproduced as closely as possible from the decoration of the historical artefact. Tin accents provide a striking contrast to the brass and emphasise the prestigious appearance of the hilt.
Multi-Part Pommel with Red Enamel
As seen on many surviving Vendel-period swords, the pommel of this reconstruction consists of several components riveted together. Its upper cap features a red enamel inlay designed to resemble the appearance of genuine garnet stones used in elaborate historical decorative work.
The grip has a wooden core wrapped in brown leather, creating an attractive contrast with the richly decorated brass hilt components.
Wooden and Leather Scabbard with Brass Fittings
A brown scabbard with a wooden core and genuine leather covering is included. The throat and chape are made from antique-finished brass and visually complement the hilt.
A wooden belt passage allows the scabbard to be worn on belts up to approximately 5 cm wide.
Collector's Piece and Historical Prop
The Vendel sword “ULTUNA” is designed as a collector's and decorative piece. Its elaborate historical appearance also makes it well suited as a prop or as an addition to a Vendel-period or early medieval costume.
No reenactment or stage-combat classification is specified for this model. Its unsharpened edges should therefore not be interpreted as approval for reenactment combat or direct blade contact.
Details
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Type: Vendel sword / early medieval one-handed sword
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Model: ULTUNA
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Historical model: Boat-grave find from a ship burial site near Uppsala, Sweden
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Date: 7th–8th century
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Period: Vendel Period
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Blade material: EN45 spring steel / carbon steel, not stainless
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Blade: Straight, double-edged and unsharpened
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Blade profile: Broad fuller
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Construction: Full-length tang peened at the pommel
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Guard: Antique-finished brass with tin accents
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Pommel: Antique-finished brass, multi-part and riveted
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Pommel decoration: Red enamel inlay with garnet-like appearance
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Grip: Wooden core wrapped in brown leather
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Overall length: approx. 89.5 cm
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Blade length: approx. 73 cm
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Blade thickness: approx. 4 mm
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Edge thickness: approx. 1 mm
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Hilt length: approx. 16.5 cm
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Grip section: approx. 11 cm
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Guard: approx. 9 cm long and 1.5 cm thick
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Maximum blade width: approx. 5 cm
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Point of balance: approx. 11.5 cm in front of the guard
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Weight without scabbard: approx. 1.4 kg
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Weight with scabbard: approx. 1.8 kg
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Scabbard: Wooden core covered in genuine leather
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Scabbard fittings: Antique-finished brass
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Belt passage: Wood, suitable for belts up to approx. 5 cm wide
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Intended use: Collecting, decoration, prop and costume use
The stated dimensions, weights and other specifications may vary slightly from one item to another.
Scope of Delivery
- Vendel sword “ULTUNA”
- Brown wooden and leather scabbard with brass fittings and belt passage
Care Instructions
The EN45 spring steel used for the blade is not stainless and may show slight traces of corrosion. Protect the blade from moisture and clean and thoroughly dry it after handling or use. Regularly applying a thin coat of suitable weapon or universal oil such as Ballistol will help protect the steel surface against corrosion. The scabbard should also be cared for regularly and stored in dry conditions.
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
The blade edges are supplied unsharpened. However, the product may still have sharp cutting edges. Improper or careless use may result in injury.
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