Vendel Sword “VALSGÄRDE” – Scandinavian Reconstruction with Damascus Blade
The Vendel sword “VALSGÄRDE” is an elaborate reconstruction of a richly decorated boat-grave find from a ship burial site near Uppsala, Sweden. The historical original dates from the 7th to 8th century and therefore belongs to the Vendel Period, the era of Swedish history between the Migration Period and the Viking Age.
Due to its magnificent and sophisticated decoration, the original sword is believed to have served as a prestige or ceremonial weapon belonging to a Swedish tribal leader, nobleman or elite warrior. Numerous archaeological finds from the Vendel Period demonstrate the remarkably high standard of craftsmanship achieved during this era.
Unsharpened Damascus Blade with Broad Fuller
In its overall form, “VALSGÄRDE” is a classic example of a Nordic one-handed sword. Its double-edged blade is forged from Damascus steel and features a broad fuller. The cutting edges are unsharpened and measure approximately 1 mm in thickness.
The blade tang extends through the entire grip and is peened at the pommel, complementing the historically inspired construction of the sword.
Elaborately Decorated Brass Hilt
One of the most distinctive features of this Vendel sword is its richly decorated hilt. 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 are designed to reproduce the decoration of the original artefact as closely as possible. Tin accents create an attractive contrast against the brass and further emphasise the elaborate character of the hilt.
As with many historical Vendel-period examples, the pommel consists of several components riveted together. Its upper cap features a red enamel inlay designed to resemble genuine garnet stones.
The grip itself has a wooden core wrapped in brown leather.
Leather-Covered Wooden Scabbard with Brass Fittings
A matching brown scabbard with a wooden core and genuine leather covering is included. Its throat and chape are made from antique-finished brass, visually complementing the sword's hilt.
A wooden belt passage allows the scabbard to be attached to a belt and is suitable for belts up to approximately 5 cm wide.
Collector's Piece and Historical Prop
“VALSGÄRDE” is designed as a collector's piece and decorative object. Its elaborate Vendel-period appearance also makes it suitable as a prop or accessory for an appropriate historical costume, portrayal, photography, theatre or film production.
Although the blade edges are unsharpened, no reenactment combat classification is specified for this model. It is therefore not intended for reenactment combat or direct blade-to-blade contact.
About the Damascus Blade
Damascus steel is a composite material produced by combining two or more different types of steel. Traditionally, harder high-carbon steels and softer lower-carbon steels can be joined through repeated forge welding and folding.
Historically, this technique allowed different material properties to be combined within a single blade. Higher-carbon steels could contribute hardness, hardenability and edge retention, while softer components could provide additional flexibility and resistance to breakage.
The different steel layers also create the characteristic pattern associated with Damascus steel. Depending on the forging process, a variety of patterns can emerge. The exact pattern can therefore vary from blade to blade, giving each example an individual appearance. The striking patterns of such blades also contributed to Damascus swords sometimes being attributed special or even magical qualities during the Middle Ages.
Details
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Type: Scandinavian Vendel sword / one-handed sword
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Model: VALSGÄRDE
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Historical model: Decorated boat-grave find from a ship burial site near Uppsala, Sweden
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Date: 7th to 8th century
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Blade material: Damascus steel / carbon steel, not stainless
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Blade: Double-edged and unsharpened
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Blade profile: Broad fuller
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Tang: Full tang, peened at the pommel
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Guard: Antique-finished brass, approx. 9 cm long and 1.5 cm thick
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Pommel: Multi-part riveted brass construction with antique finish
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Decoration: Engraved motifs, tin accents and red enamel inlay
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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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Maximum blade width: approx. 5 cm
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Hilt length: approx. 16.5 cm
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Grip section: approx. 11 cm
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Point of balance: approx. 13 cm in front of the guard
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Weight without scabbard: approx. 1.55 kg
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Weight with scabbard: approx. 1.9 kg
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Scabbard: Wooden core covered in genuine brown leather
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Scabbard fittings: Antique-finished brass throat and chape
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Belt passage: Wood, suitable for belts up to approx. 5 cm wide
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Scope of delivery: Vendel sword including scabbard
The stated dimensions, weights and other specifications may vary slightly from piece to piece.
Care Instructions
The Damascus and carbon steel used for the blade is not stainless and may occasionally show minor traces of corrosion. The blade and scabbard should therefore be maintained regularly and protected from moisture. Clean and thoroughly dry the blade after handling or use and apply a thin coat of suitable weapon or general-purpose maintenance oil.
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
Despite its unsharpened construction, this product may have sharp or potentially hazardous edges. Improper or careless use may result in injury.
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