How to Make a Viking Bearded Axe: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to historical weaponry, few pieces are as iconic as the Viking bearded axe. Known for its distinct shape and brutal efficiency, this weapon was an essential tool and battle weapon for Norse warriors. The bearded axe head allows for better control during woodworking or combat, making it a versatile and powerful tool in Viking history. If you’re interested in learning how to make your own Viking bearded axe, this guide will walk you through the process.
Materials and Tools Needed to Craft a Viking Axe
Before starting the project, gather the following materials and tools:
- Axe head blank (preferably made of high carbon steel)
- Forge and anvil
- Hammer
- Tongs
- Quenching oil
- Viking axe wood for the handle (ash or hickory are excellent choices)
- Files and sandpaper for sharpening and finishing
- Carving tools for handle customization
- Protective gloves and gear
Step 1: Forging the Viking Bearded Axe Head
The first step in crafting a Viking ax is forging the axe head. The bearded axe head gets its name from the lower section that extends down like a “beard.” This extension allows for greater versatility, especially for gripping and chopping closer to the edge.
- Heat the steel in the forge until it’s red hot.
- Using the hammer, begin shaping the bearded axe by focusing on creating the extended lower beard, while keeping the top of the axe balanced and streamlined.
- Regularly reheat the axe head in the forge as you hammer and shape the Viking ax head.
- Once the axe head takes the desired form, work on the cutting edge. Ensure it's symmetrical and well-formed.

Step 2: Hardening and Tempering the Axe Head
Once the bearded axe head is shaped, the next step is to harden and temper it for strength.
- Heat the axe head again until it's glowing hot, and then quickly quench it in oil. This hardens the steel but can make it brittle.
- To reduce brittleness, you’ll need to temper the axe by reheating it gently. Place the quenched axe head in the forge at a lower temperature until it reaches a straw-yellow color.
- This process provides a good balance between hardness and toughness, ensuring that the Viking hand axe will hold an edge but not crack under pressure.
Step 3: Crafting the Viking Axe Handle
A Viking axe wood handle, usually made from ash or hickory, provides strength and flexibility. The handle needs to be shaped to complement the axe head and suit the user’s preferences.
- Start by cutting the wood to the desired length (typically between 24 to 36 inches, depending on the type of Viking axe you're making).
- Use carving tools and files to shape the handle, ensuring a comfortable grip. Viking handles often have slight curves for better balance.
- Smooth the handle with sandpaper to avoid splinters and create a polished look.
- For a personalized touch, you can carve runes or symbols onto the handle. This adds a historical and decorative element to your Viking hand axe.


Step 4: Fitting the Axe Head to the Handle
Once the viking axe handle is shaped and smooth, it’s time to fit the bearded axe head to the handle.
- Cut a slit into the top of the handle where the axe head will fit snugly.
- Insert the axe head onto the handle, ensuring a tight fit. You may need to use wedges to secure it in place.
- Once the head is secure, you can apply linseed oil or other wood treatment to the handle for longevity and protection.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
With the viking bearded axe assembled, the final step is sharpening and finishing.
- Use a file or whetstone to sharpen the blade until it is razor-sharp. Make sure to hone both the cutting edge and the beard of the axe.
- Polish the bearded axe head for a clean, finished look.
- If desired, apply a leather wrap around the handle for added grip and historical accuracy.
Where to Buy Bearded Axes
If making your own Viking bearded axe seems too complicated or time-consuming, there are always high-quality, bearded axes for sale. At KBS Knives Store, we offer a wide range of bearded axes, from historically accurate designs to modern variations. All our axes come with custom options, and we also provide personalized engraving on the handle, adding a unique touch to your gear. Check out our collection, including bearded hatchet for sale, viking ax head for sale, and more.
Call-to-Action: For the best custom-made Viking axes, check out KBS Knives Store. All our axes come with a leather sheath, and we offer personalization options to make each axe truly unique.

Conclusion: Crafting a Viking Bearded Axe
Crafting your own Viking bearded axe is a rewarding process that requires patience, precision, and attention to historical details. Whether you're creating it for practical use or as a collector's piece, a Viking hand axe is a timeless weapon that embodies both beauty and functionality. If you're in the market for a bearded axe for sale, look no further than KBS Knives Store, where craftsmanship and history come together.
