The Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe: A Legacy Reborn in Steel and Hickory

Are you captivated by the sagas of ancient Norse warriors, their formidable tools, and the enduring spirit of the Viking age? Do you seek a robust, historically-inspired axe that combines battle-ready design with modern durability? The Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe (CS-90WVBA) stands as a powerful testament to this legacy, offering a meticulously crafted instrument that echoes the might of historical Norse weaponry while built to withstand the demands of contemporary use. It's more than just an axe; it's a tangible piece of history, reimagined for today’s enthusiasts, collectors, and those who appreciate unyielding craftsmanship.

This extraordinary axe is the result of a visionary design collaboration between Cold Steel's founder, Lynn C. Thompson, and celebrated custom bladesmiths Dave Baker and Rich McDonald. Their combined expertise has forged a tool that is not only historically inspired but also engineered for formidable performance, making it a prized possession for anyone interested in Viking culture, historical re-enactment, or simply owning a truly powerful and reliable hand axe.

Echoes of the North: Historical Design and Purpose

The Viking axe was not merely a weapon; it was an indispensable tool, a symbol of status, and a crucial companion in daily life. From felling timber to splitting kindling, and from carving wood to defending hearth and home, the axe was central to the Norse way of life. The Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe meticulously captures the essence of these historical implements, drawing inspiration from countless archaeological finds and historical accounts.

When considering a historically-inspired axe, questions often arise: "How authentic is the design?" or "What made Viking axes so effective?" The design of the CS-90WVBA thoughtfully addresses these points:

• Extra Broad and Sharp Cutting Edge: This feature is paramount for both combat effectiveness and efficient wood processing. A broad edge maximizes the cutting surface on impact, delivering devastating blows or efficient chopping action. Historically, broad axe heads were favored for their versatility and power.
• Hooking Beard: The "beard" refers to the lower portion of the axe head that extends downwards from the cutting edge. In Viking axes, this served multiple purposes: it could be used to hook shields, parry blows, or even as a climbing aid. On the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe, the pronounced beard enhances its dynamic handling and adds to its authentic historical profile.
• Up-Swept Thrusting Horn: Located at the top of the axe head, opposite the beard, this "horn" could be used for thrusting attacks, adding another dimension to the axe's combat utility. It also provides a counterbalance to the beard, contributing to the axe's overall balance and handling characteristics.

The collaboration between Lynn C. Thompson, known for his relentless pursuit of strength and performance in blade design, and custom bladesmiths Dave Baker and Rich McDonald, ensures that every curve and angle of this axe is purposeful, reflecting centuries of practical evolution in axe design.

Unwavering Strength: Materials and Construction

What materials make for a truly robust and enduring axe? The answer lies in the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe's choice of components, specifically its 1055 Carbon Steel blade and American Hickory handle.

The Blade: 1055 Carbon Steel

When evaluating an axe, users often inquire, "What kind of steel is best for an axe blade?" or "How durable is this material?" The blade of the CS-90WVBA is crafted from 1055 Carbon Steel, a material renowned for its exceptional properties that make it ideal for tools subjected to high impact and stress:

• High Toughness and Shock Resistance: 1055 carbon steel is a medium-carbon steel known for its remarkable toughness. This means it can withstand significant impacts and sudden forces without fracturing or deforming, a critical attribute for an axe used in chopping, felling, or combative applications. Unlike more brittle, harder steels, 1055 is designed to absorb shock, making it less prone to chipping or breaking during heavy use.
• Excellent Edge Retention (for an axe steel): While not as hard as some premium stainless steels, 1055 holds an edge remarkably well for an axe, particularly when properly heat-treated. Its composition allows it to take a very keen edge, and though it will require occasional resharpening after strenuous work, it sharpens relatively easily, allowing users to maintain peak performance in the field or workshop.
• Ease of Sharpening: One of the practical advantages of 1055 carbon steel is its user-friendliness when it comes to maintenance. Whether you're using a sharpening stone, a diamond sharpener, or other tools, bringing the edge back to razor sharpness is a straightforward process, ensuring your axe is always ready for action.
• Robust Performance: For applications where sheer strength, impact resistance, and a reliable edge are paramount—such as in an axe designed for combat or heavy utility—1055 carbon steel consistently proves to be a superior choice. Its performance profile ensures that the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe can endure rigorous use without compromise.

The Handle: American Hickory

The handle is as crucial as the blade for an axe's performance and longevity. "Why hickory?" is a common question, and the answer lies in its unique characteristics:

• Superior Strength and Flexibility: American Hickory is widely regarded as one of the best woods for tool handles, particularly for impact tools like axes and hammers. It possesses an unparalleled combination of strength, resilience, and shock absorption. Unlike many other hardwoods, hickory has a fibrous structure that allows it to flex slightly under impact, dissipating shock rather than transferring it directly to the user's hands or fracturing.
• Optimal Length for Leverage and Control: At 30 inches long, the American Hickory handle of the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe provides excellent leverage, maximizing the force behind each swing. This length is historically appropriate for a hand axe or light war axe, offering a balance of reach and maneuverability that was critical in both ancient skirmishes and modern re-enactments.
• Comfortable and Secure Grip: The natural texture of American Hickory, combined with its ergonomic design, ensures a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended or strenuous use. This natural grip helps prevent slippage, enhancing safety and control.

The meticulous marriage of a tough 1055 carbon steel head to a resilient American Hickory handle results in an axe that is not only powerful and effective but also incredibly durable and reliable. The head is securely fitted, built to withstand the stresses of intense chopping and impact.

Beyond the Battlefield: Performance and Versatility

While historically inspired as a fighting axe, the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe offers surprising versatility. Users frequently ask, "Can this axe be used for more than just re-enactments?" or "Is it practical for outdoor tasks?"

As a Fighting Axe: Its Primary Design Intent

The Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe is first and foremost a formidable fighting axe. Its balance, blade geometry, and overall length are optimized for the dynamic movements of historical martial arts and re-enactment combat.

• Historical Re-enactment: For enthusiasts of historical combat and re-enactment groups, this axe provides an authentic and robust prop. Its weight and balance allow for realistic handling and fluid movements, enhancing the authenticity of historical demonstrations.
• Martial Arts Training: Practitioners of historical European martial arts (HEMA) or other axe-based disciplines will find its design conducive to practicing forms and techniques, offering a true feel for a weapon of this type.
• Collection and Display: For collectors of historical weaponry or Cold Steel products, the CS-90WVBA is an impressive display piece, showcasing a blend of historical accuracy and modern manufacturing prowess.

Practical Utility: A Capable Workhorse

While optimized for its combative design, the inherent toughness of the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe makes it surprisingly capable for various utility tasks, especially for those seeking a robust tool that can handle demanding conditions.

• Light Chopping and Limbing: The sharp, broad edge is effective for processing small to medium-sized branches, limbing felled trees, or clearing brush around a campsite. Its weight provides sufficient momentum for efficient chopping.
• Splitting Kindling: For campfires or wood stoves, the axe can be used to split smaller pieces of wood for kindling. While not a dedicated splitting maul, its robust construction allows for this task.
• General Camp Duties: Its overall durability means it can serve as a dependable tool for various outdoor chores where a strong, sharp edge is needed.

It's important to note that while versatile, the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe's design biases towards its historical combat inspiration. For dedicated, heavy-duty felling or log splitting, specialized axes are often more efficient. However, for a user seeking a historically significant tool that can also perform admirably in general outdoor utility, the CS-90WVBA delivers exceptional value.

Why Choose the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe?

When looking for a new axe, many questions arise: "What distinguishes this axe from others?" or "Is Cold Steel a reputable brand?" The Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe stands out for several compelling reasons:

• Authenticity Meets Performance: It successfully bridges the gap between historical accuracy and modern manufacturing excellence, offering a tool that is both a nod to the past and a performer in the present.
• Cold Steel's Unwavering Reputation: Cold Steel is globally renowned for its commitment to producing "the world's strongest, sharpest knives and tools." Their products undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet demanding standards of durability and functionality. When you choose a Cold Steel product, you're investing in a brand with a proven track record of over-engineered strength and reliability.
• Exceptional Materials: The use of 1055 Carbon Steel and American Hickory are not arbitrary choices; they are deliberate selections of materials known for their superior performance in high-stress applications, ensuring longevity and consistent functionality.
• Versatile Application: Whether you're a re-enactor, a historical weapons enthusiast, a martial artist, or simply someone who appreciates a robust and capable outdoor tool, the Viking Hand Axe delivers.
• Collector's Item: Beyond its utility, its unique design and historical inspiration make it a highly desirable piece for any serious collector of blades or historical artifacts.

For those ready to experience the power and craftsmanship of this exceptional axe, the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe (CS-90WVBA) is available from reputable online retailers like DEGuns. Purchasing from trusted sources like DEGuns ensures you receive a genuine product backed by reliable customer service.

Caring for Your Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe

To ensure your Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe remains a formidable and enduring tool for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. Common user questions include: "How do I prevent rust on carbon steel?" or "How do I maintain the handle?"

• Blade Care: Since the 1055 carbon steel blade is prone to rust if left exposed to moisture, it's crucial to keep it clean and dry. After each use, wipe down the blade thoroughly. For long-term storage or in humid environments, apply a thin coat of rust-preventative oil (such as mineral oil, camellia oil, or a specialized gun oil) to the blade surface.
• Edge Maintenance: Regularly check the sharpness of the blade. When dull, sharpen the edge using appropriate sharpening stones, diamond sharpeners, or ceramic rods. Maintaining the correct blade angle (often around 20-25 degrees per side for an axe) is key to its cutting performance.
• Handle Care: The American Hickory handle is naturally robust, but prolonged exposure to extreme moisture or dryness can affect it. Avoid leaving the axe in standing water or in direct sunlight for extended periods. If the wood appears dry, a light application of linseed oil or Danish oil can help protect and preserve the wood, enhancing its durability and appearance.
• Proper Storage: Store your axe in a dry environment. While the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe typically does not come with a sheath (as noted by its UPC 705442013600 specifications), investing in a custom leather or Kydex sheath can provide excellent protection for both the blade and the user when the axe is not in use.

By following these simple care guidelines, your Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe will not only maintain its exceptional performance but also develop a beautiful patina over time, telling the story of its journeys with you.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe

To provide comprehensive information, here are answers to some common questions users have about the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe:

• Q: Is the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe sharp out of the box?

  A: Yes, Cold Steel knives and axes are typically factory-sharpened to a functional edge, ready for use upon receipt. However, personal preference for sharpness may lead some users to refine the edge further.

• Q: What is the actual weight of the axe?

  A: The Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe (CS-90WVBA) weighs approximately 35.8 ounces (about 2.2 pounds or 1.01 kilograms), providing substantial momentum for chopping and a balanced feel in hand.

• Q: Can this axe be used for axe throwing?

  A: While designed primarily as a combat axe, its robust construction and balance may allow for recreational axe throwing. However, it's crucial to use proper technique and safety precautions, and be aware that throwing any axe can cause wear and tear on the handle and head.

• Q: Does the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe come with a sheath?

  A: Based on the product specifications associated with UPC 705442013600, this axe is typically sold without a sheath. Users often purchase aftermarket sheaths or create custom ones for protection and transport.

• Q: What is the overall length of the axe?

  A: The overall length of the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe is 30 inches, providing excellent reach and leverage.

• Q: What makes 1055 carbon steel a good choice for an axe?

  A: 1055 carbon steel is prized for its high toughness, impact resistance, and ability to hold a decent edge while being relatively easy to sharpen. These properties are crucial for an axe blade that needs to withstand repeated, forceful impacts without chipping or breaking.

• Q: Where can I purchase a genuine Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe (CS-90WVBA)?

  A: You can find the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe available for purchase from trusted and authorized retailers, such as DEGuns. Purchasing from a reputable dealer ensures you receive an authentic Cold Steel product.

Conclusion: A Formidable Tool for the Modern Age

The Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe (CS-90WVBA) is more than just an axe; it's a meticulously designed and robustly constructed piece that pays homage to historical Norse tools while excelling in modern applications. With its 1055 Carbon Steel blade and sturdy American Hickory handle, it embodies Cold Steel's commitment to strength, sharpness, and unwavering reliability.

Whether you are a history buff looking for an authentic re-enactment tool, a collector seeking a unique and powerful display piece, or an outdoors enthusiast in need of a dependable and versatile hand axe, the Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe is an exceptional choice. Its formidable design, superior materials, and robust construction ensure it will be a valued companion and a testament to enduring craftsmanship for years to come.

Cold Steel Viking Hand Axe Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Cold Steel
Model	Viking Hand Axe
Blade Material	1055 Carbon Steel
Handle Material	American Hickory
Overall Length	30"
Blade Length	6"
Edge Type	Plain
Blade Description	Black
Weight	35.8 oz
SKU	132910
MPN	CS90WVBA
UPC	705442013600