The Huskarl

(Petersen Type S, Geibig Type 3 Blade)

The hilt of this sword is an example of a form that falls a bit outside the Petersen typology. It follows most closely Petersen type S, but has slightly curved upper and lower guard, instead of being straight and flaring that otherwise define the type. The curving guards might mark it as a type L, but those hilts are also recognized by the narrow width of the guards. Once in a while one can encounter these type S(?) hilts with sightly curved guards in Swedish and English museums. Petersen observed none of these in Norwegian contex at the time he wrote his work on Norwegian Viking Swords. As the type L is recognized as an Anglo-Saxon style, it seems that this version of type S hilts might show Anglo-Saxon influences. The hilt components are investment cast in mild steel from original waxes carved by Peter Johnsson, based on Peter’s first-hand examination and documentation of period originals of this type. The upper guard and pommel are made as separate peices riveted together, just as were the originals. Between these is an encircling band of twisted sterling silver wire. The three lobes are also separated by two pairs of thin clockwise and counterclockwise twisted sterling silver wire, producing a herringbone effect. The blade of Geibig type 3 (which might also be considered a sub-classification of the Oakeshott Type X) is defined by a moderate taper in width and a fuller that taper in width towards the point. This type can be dated to the period between second half of the 8th C to the second half of the 10th C. Many of the famous Ulfberht swords are forged to this form. The Huskarl is a sword that celebrates these splendid viking swords that seem to emanate an aura of self confidence and bravado. Having a hilt that is bold in volume and a blade of acute shape and sharpness, it could be the sword of an experienced warrior serving a Viking lord. It has a powerful feel and handles with gracefull smoothness. The wide upper guard helps in the delivering of great cleaving blows when grasped so that the heel of the hand rests snugly at the base of the pommel. The blades are hand-ground from high-carbon steel to a fine satin finish, heat-treated by hand for maximum flexibility and to take a fine edge. These swords are sold sharp, unless otherwise requested by the customer.

Specifications
Overall length: 36.9″ (94 cm)
Blade length: 31″ (79 cm)
Blade width: 2.2″ (6 cm)
CoG: 5.5″ (14 cm)
CoP: 20″ (50 cm)
Weight: 2 lbs 11 oz (1.22 kilos)
This sword is offered in a limited edition of only 500 collectible swords worldwide.