The Scramasax (SH1075)
Carried by the Saxons and Vikings between the 4th and 10th centuries, the Scramasaxwas utilized as both a tool and a weapon. Carried horizontally at the back of the belt, the Scramasax provided the spearman with a close-quarters weapon when needed, and its broad blade could handle many day-to-day chores. The ancestry of the Scramasax, which evolved from similar weapons in bronze (and later iron) used by the Celts, is portrayed in the decoration of the guard and pommel.

The Vikings are known as great warriors. This reputation is based on what we know about their weapons and battle tactics. The Viking Age that began so fearsomely in the 800’s tapered off in the 12th century much to the relief of many Europeans. The Vikings were Nordic people -- Danes, Swedes and Norwegians -- who sometimes sailed out of Scandinavia in hundreds of longboats to loot and pillage coastal cities.

The supposed reasons for the sudden appearance of the Vikings at the end of VIII century are many and varied. The over-population of their homelands is one of the most mentioned reasons. The progressive setting of a stable rule in almost all Western Europe, specially in the continent after the foundation of Charlemange's Empire, had provoked a remarkable increase in the European trade. This meant opportunity for piracy. Basic weapons comprised sword or axe, spear and shield, and most men had a dagger attached to their belts.