A Famous Viking Age Sword Made for a Left-Hander

Hello fellow sword and history enthusiasts,

It’s not often that you get to see this exceptionally well-preserved sword outside the British Museum. With its wide fuller inscribed LEUTLRIT and an Anglo-Danish hilt adorned with geometric inlays, it is an outstanding piece.

But what I find most intriguing are the subtle asymmetries in the hilt design—clearly intended to optimise the weapon for left-handed use.

A Splendid Right-Handed Viking Sword from Poland

Another impressive sword from the same era features a flamboyant, genuinely Scandinavian hilt (Petersen Type S / Geibig Combination Type 10) with comparable modifications—this time tailored for right-handed use. The weapon was tested, recorded and documented by aspiring archaeologist Harald Hrodberhtsson.

Now’s the Time to Improve Your Skill at Arms

Cornelius and I continue to offer guidance on your path to sword-and-buckler mastery through our I.33 online courses—currently 15% off!

• Lay the the foundation with the first course.
• Explore the concept of Schutzen—defending against every kind of attack with course 2.

And remember: if it looks good, it’s probably correct!

Waning Light: When the Viking Twilight Fails to Shine

I recently visited Twilight of the Vikings in Schleswig—unfortunately, a missed opportunity. Instead of exploring the fascinating and turbulent local events of 1066, including the Slavic uprising and the fall of Hedeby, the exhibition focuses largely on the already well-trodden tale of the Norman conquest of England.

There’s little context, no reconstructions, and awkward animations that leave visitors lost in a sea of artefacts. The exhibition fails to connect past and present in any meaningful way—despite a wealth of archaeological research waiting to be brought to life.

Come to Hedeby!

The annual summer market at the reconstructed Viking houses in Hedeby starts tomorrow. I plan to visit in full Viking kit on Saturday. If you're around, come say hello and talk swords!

Wishing you all a strong and sunny sword-and-shield summer!

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Yours,

Roland

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