Viking Damascus Seax Saxon Scramasax

12” Overall, 7.5” Blade, 4.75" Hardwood Handle + Knotwork

256 Layers, 15N20  + 1085 High Carbon Steels

Premium Leather Scabbard - Horizontal Carry


The Scramasax, also referred to as scramaseax or scramsax (literally meaning ‘wounding-knife’), sax or seax, was carried by the Saxons and the Vikings between the 4th and 10th centuries, came in a wide range of sizes and was used both as a tool and a weapon. 


Carried horizontally, at the back of the belt, the scramasax provided the spearman with both a close-quarters weapon and a tool and utensil in camp. It would provide both slashing and thrusting power in battle while handling heavy-duty chores around the home and camp. The Scramasax is equipped with a premium leather horizontal-carry sheath.


Amongst the shape and construction of seaxes there is a great deal of variation, see last few photos for examples. The most common characteristics are:

  • A tang in the centerline of the blade, inserted into an organic hilt of wood or horn.
  • A large single-edged blade.
  • The blade is worn horizontally inside a scabbard or sheath attached to the belt, usually at the back.

Specifications:

Overall: 12.55” (13.75" in Sheath)
Blade Length: 7.5”, Sharp
Handle Length: 4.75"
Weight: 16 ozs (Seax & Sheath Combined)
Thickness at Guard: .2”
Blade Steel: 266 Layers of 15N20 + 1085 High Carbon Steels 


Comments: Technically these are 'pattern welded' (a technique dating back to 4th C AD Vikings) using modern forges and excellent heat treatment. Beautifully made with solid construction (note thickness of blade at guard and full tang for instance) Also the only one aside from the Hanwei that comes with sheath for horizontal carry. Hardwood handle is carved with knotwork. I'm a collector and re-enactor, I sell what I own and can personally recommend. See my Seller ratings and buy with confidence, plus I ship fast!  

Manufacturer's Description:

All our Damascus knives have at least 266 layers during the forging process, with many of them surpassing that mark by several layers. 

• Our handles are genuine bone, horn, or stag antler. Some also feature walnut or rosewood handles. We do not use resin to make the handles for any of our Damascus product line. 

• We use genuine brass in our bolsters, guards, and inlays. We do not use brass plated steel.

• Our Damascus knives and swords are available with a variety of tangs (i.e. full or encapsulated tangs).

• We currently use two combinations of steel in the forging process of our Damascus blades. Some blades will use a blending of 1074 high carbon steel and WS1 mild steel, while others use a combination of 1085 high carbon steel and 15N20 bright steel. 

• All our Damascus blades are Rockwell tested between 52 to 58, or higher. This determines the durability of the blade and its ability to hold a fine edge.

• The Damascus knives, swords, and blanks are subject to an “acid wash” that helps accentuate the contrast between the types of steel used in the forging of the blades. Because the tang will typically be covered by whatever handle material is used, that part of the blade is generally not subject to the acid treatment. However, the “swirl pattern” of the contrasting steels that is characteristic of Damascus blades will still be visible when inspected closely.