Swords of the Viking Age

Rating:
Summary: Outstanding-a must for any student of Viking arms & armour!
Review: This book has a wealth of information on what is otherwise a very inaccessible topic, at least in English (most books touching on Viking Age swords are often in German, Norwegian, or Swedish, which is less than helpful). Not only are the different hilt styles detailed, but there is information on blade types and pattern welded construction, not to mention the numerous colour and b&w illustrations. Finally, unlike just about every other book on the subject of swords, this actually gives important measurements; not merely length but point of balance (or center of gravity), as well.

There are a couple of minor flaws. For one, they do not discuss in as much detail as I would like the fact the pommel construction of the Norse swords (actually, an upper guard and a pommel cap), though they do mention it and at least give some inkling as to which types usually used this feature. The more serious problem is the lack of weight measurements. While not practical for more seriously damaged specimens, there was no reason not to include such for the majority of intact swords that are profiled in the book.

Other than that, an outstanding contribution to this subject. The beautiful cover picture is itself worth the ..price tag; indeed, this book would be a bargain at twice the price! I cannot emphasise enough: if you are at all interested in Norse arms & armour, you ***NEED*** this book. Period. It is not an option....