The “Birger” Viking Axe

The Midgard serpent Jörmungandr is a central component of Norse mythology, so much so that it extends both far into the past and far into our own future. Also known as the Midgard Serpent or the World Serpent, Jörmungandr was the offspring of the Norse god Loki, and appears in several Norse writings. The Prose Edda is the primary source for our knowledge about Jörmungandr, though many surviving skaldic poems make reference to this being especially as gods such as Thor encounter it in their adventures. Like Fenrir the wolf, Yggdrasil the world tree, and the gods themselves, Jörmungandr is one of the central features of Viking lore and is one of the beings that will begin the final battle of Ragnarök.

Jörmungandr’s origins in Norse mythology are similar to the other children of Loki. Many ages ago, the importance of Loki’s three children – Jörmungandr, Fenrir, and the goddess Hel – was foretold. Odin, seeking to delay Ragnarök as long as possible, banished these three children from Asgard. Jörmungandr he cast deep into the ocean, where the great serpent would grow so massive that he would wrap around the entire planet in a huge circle. In most depictions of Jörmungandr, he is depicted in this pose encircling the world and biting the end of his tail like an Ouroboros, an ancient symbol found in many cultures from the early world. According to prophecy about the end of the world, when Jörmungandr releases the end of his tail from his jaws the final battle of the gods will begin. Jörmungandr and Thor are fated to fight each other to the death, and while Thor will kill the World Serpent it’s poison will corrupt the God of Thunder utterly – he will make it but nine paces away from his foe before falling. Certainly, not an end you will see in Marvel movies.

The name Jörmungandr is an almost poetic title that likely means “The Vast Binding,” and similar to his brother Fenrir Jörmungandr spends the majority of world history bound but fated to be released one day. This is a recurring theme in Norse mythology, that great evils are prevented from harming our world but only for a short time. Ragnarök, and the end of all things, are inevitable. The only thing that prevents this is the actions the gods have taken to hold back the dark and protect us from the final battle for as long as they can.

The Birger axe is inspired by the protection of the gods. A Peterson Type B/Wheeler III design, the axe head shape was commonly used between the 600-840’s CE. The upper edge of the head has a relatively gentle curve, while the bottom edge steeply drops into a deep beard. This creates a long cutting and splitting blade capable of severe destruction. The hardwood handle is extended to allow for improved reach, making this not just a raiding weapon but a weapon of war. The Norse knotwork depicts a rising serpent, indicative of Jörmungandr and the threat he poses to our world. An intimidating presence, the Birger axe is our offering to those who are protectors in their own realms.

Total Length : 35”
Viking Axe head (width): 8”
Viking Axe head (Hight) 7” long
Weight: 4 lbs. 1 oz.