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The backbone of Viking armies: Understanding the role of huscarls
Huscarls, elite warriors from Anglo-Saxon and Viking societies, showed steadfast loyalty and skill in protecting their nobles, often to the death. Their formidable reputation is thought to have inspired the formation of the Byzantine Empire's Varangian Guard.1 month ago — Viking warfare -
Viking bows and arrows: The silent killers of the North
Whilst many a Hollywood depiction of a Viking has them brandishing a sword or an axe, these fierce early medieval warriors were skillful in the use of a bow and arrow. A weapon of choice both on the battlefield and in the woods, a bow and arrow were a valuable part of any Viking arsenal.1 month ago — Viking warfare -
Why did Vikings use slings in combat?
Whilst popular images of Vikings often portray them brandishing a mighty sword or deadly axe, this was not everything they wielded.3 months ago — Viking warfare -
What you need to know about Viking armor
Whilst one of the most famous symbols of the Viking Age is the famous Gjermundbu helmet, surprisingly little is known more broadly about Viking-era armor.7 months ago — Viking warfare -
A complete guide to Viking weaponry
Despite the bloody and fearsome reputation that Vikings have been attributed with, we know surprisingly little about much of their weaponry.7 months ago — Viking warfare -
Early Medieval Scotsmen used Viking swords. Here’s why
Scottish swords come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, each of them having its own history.9 months ago — Viking warfare -
Everything you need to know about Viking shields
Most people in Viking societies were steeped in a martial culture. Annual raids for treasure, slaves, and other loot saw (mostly) young men engage foreign communities who were less than happy to give away their silver or women.10 months ago — Viking warfare -
Did Vikings use war hammers?
A Viking warrior brandishing a war hammer is one of the most popular images, thanks to fantasy books, Hollywood movies, and television series. Yet there appears to be negligible evidence of the Vikings ever using hammers to wage war, pillage, or plunder.11 months ago — Viking warfare -
These swords were so deadly that a Frankish emperor banned their export to Viking societies
The early medieval period was often a time of political insecurity, violence, and warfare. One of the most important and pricey weapons that any free Viking warrior could get his (or her) hands on was a sword.1 year ago — Viking warfare
