Ballinderry Ulfberht Sword with Bronze Hilt, Viking Sword with Scabbard, 9th Century

Suitable for Historical Reenactment Combat – SK-B Class

This beautiful Viking-era one-handed sword is a faithful reconstruction of the famous Ballinderry sword, a bog find dating to the mid-9th century and classified as Petersen Type K. The exceptionally well-preserved original was discovered in 1928 at Ballinderry, Ireland, and is now on display at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin.

Based on its construction, appearance, materials, and the accompanying archaeological finds, historians believe the Ballinderry sword was a prestigious weapon, likely owned by a wealthy Irishman—perhaps a prosperous landowner or tribal chieftain. How this remarkable weapon ultimately came into the possession of its Irish owner, however, remains unknown.

A Sword with a Fascinating History

This sword is a classic example of an early medieval Nordic weapon, yet it tells a far more complex story. While the hilt is unmistakably Scandinavian, the blade appears to be of Frankish origin.

It bears the famous +ULFBERHT+ inscription, the mark of the renowned Rhineland workshops that are considered among the earliest sword "brands" in history. Approximately 170 swords bearing the +ULFBERHT+ inscription, dating from the 9th to the 11th century, have been discovered across Europe, reaching as far east as western Russia.

Research on the original artifact suggests that the blade was forged in Germany, mounted by a Scandinavian swordsmith, and eventually found its way to Ireland—most likely through trade, although warfare cannot be ruled out.

Ready for Historical Combat

This SK-B rated reenactment sword features a heat-treated 5160 carbon steel blade with a hardness of approximately 48–52 HRC.

Like the original, the double-edged blade features a wide central fuller and the iconic +ULFBERHT+ inscription. The full tang is securely peened over the pommel for exceptional strength and durability.

With 2 mm blunt edges and a rounded safety tip, this sword is ideal for:

• Historical reenactment

• Stage combat

• Sparring

• Combat training

Hilt and Grip

The short crossguard and distinctive multi-lobed pommel are crafted from bronze.

Both faithfully reproduce the spiral and interlace motifs found on the original artifact. As with many authentic Viking swords, the pommel is constructed from several riveted components.

The wooden grip is tightly wrapped in high-quality brown leather for a secure and comfortable hold.

Scabbard and Suspension System

The sword comes complete with an elegant wooden scabbard covered in genuine brown leather, featuring:

• Bronze throat and chape

• Wooden belt bridge

• Two leather suspension loops

Also included is a brown leather suspension belt with strap distributors.

The copper fittings on both the suspension loops and the belt are based on archaeological finds from Birka/Björkö and Gotland, Sweden.

A second version of this combat-ready sword featuring a steel hilt and guard is also available (Product Code 0164002630).

Specifications

• Combat Classification: SK-B

• Blade Material: Heat-treated 5160 carbon steel

• Blade Hardness: Approx. 48–52 HRC

• Grip: Wood wrapped in brown leather

• Pommel & Guard: Bronze

• Overall Length: Approx. 94 cm

• Blade Length: Approx. 79 cm

• Handle Length: Approx. 15 cm (grip approx. 10.5 cm)

• Blade Width at Guard: Approx. 5 cm

• Blade Thickness: Approx. 4 mm

• Edge Thickness: Approx. 2 mm

• Point of Balance: Approx. 17 cm in front of the guard

• Scabbard: Wooden core covered in genuine leather with bronze fittings

• Suspension System: Leather belt with copper fittings

• Weight (without scabbard): Approx. 1.1 kg

• Weight (with scabbard): Approx. 1.5 kg

• Weight (complete with scabbard and suspension belt): Approx. 1.7 kg

Please note: As each sword is handcrafted, slight variations in dimensions, finish, and details may occur, making every piece unique.