Thread: Viking sword documentary

As a blacksmith, and familiar with several friends who have helped participate in these shows, the producers are selling the sizzle not the steak. I hope this word image makes sense. When filming is complete, the producers and editors assume control and often the material changes before it makes it to the public. Other experts/historians will add their opinions and knowledge to the mix.

Sweden has always had the best supply of accessible native iron ores. Not always are the ores of south Asia the ones that are used for famous steels. The particular group in northern Europe who had some successes with the Ulfbert style or type of blades, were the Franks. For about 200 years, one or two Frankish monasteries produced some of the cleanest steels ever made using what modern industry would consider primitive techniques. Even the peoples of mid-Asia were known to have sought out these steels for their swords, in preference to wootz. Good materials and good art have always traded around the world. The Vikings were famous for their travels and their mercenary work in other places besides Europe would have contributed to this type of trade.

But, history is written by conquerors and booksmiths, somewhat removed from the practical business of making the craft work to produce objects like a sword. I wish there were less gaps in the information. It's a fascinating story even without the marketing.