Gjermundbu Sword – 39″ Viking One-Handed Warrior Sword (10th Century)
Discovered in Norway and dating to the 10th century, the Gjermundbu Sword represents one of the finest surviving examples of a high-status Viking weapon. Found alongside the famous Gjermundbu helmet, this sword reflects the arms of an elite Norse warrior during the height of the Viking Age.
At 39 inches overall, this sword falls squarely within the authentic range of historical Viking swords, which were designed for one-handed use with a shield and favored speed, cutting power, and battlefield control.
A Sword from One of the Most Important Viking Finds
The Gjermundbu burial is the only known Viking grave to contain a nearly complete helmet, marking it as an extraordinary archaeological discovery. The sword recovered with it shares the same level of craftsmanship and status, indicating ownership by a wealthy and well-equipped warrior—possibly a chieftain or household retainer.
Classic Viking Hilt with Lobed Pommel
This sword features the unmistakable multi-lobed Viking pommel, a defining characteristic of Scandinavian swords from the 9th–11th centuries. This pommel style provided excellent balance while serving as a visual marker of prestige. Paired with a short, straight crossguard and compact grip, the hilt is unmistakably Viking in form and function.
Broad Cutting Blade of the Viking Age
Gjermundbu-style swords are characterized by a broad, straight, double-edged blade, optimized for powerful slashing attacks. At approximately 39 inches overall length, swords of this type were highly effective against lightly armored opponents and ideal for the aggressive, shield-supported fighting style of Viking warfare. Historically, many such blades were forged in Frankish regions and mounted with Norse hilts.
Weapon of War and Status
Swords were rare and valuable possessions in Viking society. A sword like the Gjermundbu was more than a weapon—it was a symbol of authority, lineage, and honor, often passed down through generations and buried only with warriors of great importance.
Specifications & Characteristics
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Length: 39 inches
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Blade Material: Hand-forged Damascus steel (300+ layers: 1095 high carbon & 15N20)
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Hardness: 55–56 HRC
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Handle Material: Wood
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Guard & Pommel: Norwegian Viking Sword
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Pommel: Multi-lobed Viking style
Historical Significance
With its correct one-handed proportions, lobed pommel, and Viking-age blade profile, the Gjermundbu Sword stands as a benchmark for authentic Norse weapon design. Alongside the famed helmet, it confirms the presence of heavily armed Viking warriors whose equipment rivaled that of any contemporary European force.
