Viking Sword “HEBRIDES” – Petersen Type D Based on the Isle of Eigg Find
The Viking sword “HEBRIDES” is based on an exceptionally ornate sword hilt excavated in 1830 on the Isle of Eigg in Scotland's Inner Hebrides. Dating to the 9th to early 10th century, the archaeological find is classified as Petersen Type D according to the Petersen typology of Viking swords. The historical original is now preserved at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
Alongside the silver-inlaid bronze hilt, several fragments of the original blade were also discovered. Unfortunately, these fragments could not be preserved. Since no complete original blade survives as a model, a classic Nordic blade shape appropriate to the early medieval character of the sword was selected for this reconstruction.
Archaeological Model from the Inner Hebrides
The exceptionally detailed hilt is the defining feature of the historical find. The original features a silver-inlaid bronze hilt and demonstrates the elaborate craftsmanship associated with a high-quality Viking sword of this period.
On this reconstruction, the engraved motifs and patterns of the surviving artefact have been reproduced as closely as possible. The hilt itself is made from cast bronze and incorporates additional decorative details.
Hardened EN45 Spring Steel Blade
The straight, double-edged blade is made from hardened EN45 spring steel. It features a broad fuller and is supplied with unsharpened edges.
As the blade of the historical find has not survived, the blade shape is not an exact reconstruction of the original. Instead, a classic Nordic form was chosen to reproduce the characteristic appearance of an early medieval one-handed sword.
Richly Decorated Bronze Hilt
The hilt consists of a short oval guard, a grip section covered in brown leather and a generously proportioned pommel. Both guard and pommel are cast in bronze and richly decorated with engraved motifs.
The decoration follows the surviving patterns of the historical artefact as closely as possible. The guard measures approximately 10 cm in length and around 2 cm in thickness.
Two-Part Pommel with Copper Inlays
As seen on many surviving swords from this period, the pommel has a two-part construction. The full-length blade tang is screwed into the lower, flat section of the pommel, while the upper pommel cap is secured to the base with two rivets.
Twisted copper wire inlays add further visual detail and highlight the intricate decoration of the pommel.
Wooden and Leather Scabbard with Bronze Fittings
A brown sword scabbard with a wooden core and genuine leather covering is included. The throat, chape and belt passage are made from bronze, complementing the material used for the hilt.
The belt passage accommodates belts up to approximately 6 cm wide.
For Collecting, Decoration and Prop Use
The Viking sword “HEBRIDES” is designed as a collector's and decorative piece. Its elaborate historical appearance also makes it suitable as a prop or as an addition to an appropriate Viking 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: Viking sword / early medieval one-handed sword
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Model: HEBRIDES
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Historical model: Sword hilt from the Isle of Eigg, Inner Hebrides, Scotland
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Year discovered: 1830
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Date: 9th to early 10th century
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Typology: Petersen Type D
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Original: National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
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Historical hilt: Silver-inlaid bronze
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Blade material: Hardened EN45 spring steel / carbon steel, not stainless
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Blade: Straight, double-edged and unsharpened
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Blade form: Classic Nordic form, as the original blade has not survived
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Blade profile: Broad fuller
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Hilt: Cast bronze
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Guard: Oval and richly decorated
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Grip: Covered in brown leather
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Pommel: Two-part bronze construction
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Decoration: Engraved patterns and twisted copper wire inlays
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Overall length: approx. 97 cm
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Blade length: approx. 79 cm
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Blade thickness: approx. 4.5 mm
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Edge thickness: approx. 1 mm
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Hilt length: approx. 18 cm
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Grip section: approx. 10 cm
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Guard: approx. 10 cm long and 2 cm thick
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Maximum blade width: approx. 4.5 cm
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Point of balance: approx. 12 cm in front of the guard
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Weight without scabbard: approx. 1.7 kg
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Weight with scabbard: approx. 2.2 kg
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Scabbard: Wooden core covered in genuine leather
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Scabbard fittings: Bronze
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Maximum belt width: approx. 6 cm
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Intended use: Collecting, decoration and prop use
The stated dimensions, weights and other specifications may vary slightly from one item to another.
Scope of Delivery
- Viking sword “HEBRIDES”
- Brown wooden and leather scabbard with bronze throat, chape 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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