The Illustrated Guide to Viking Martial Arts

Using the sagas and writings of the Vikings Cummins reveals the world of Viking combat, ranging from the techniques involved in thrust, block and cut, to the weapons used, the limitations of period armour, and the range of wounds suffered by combatants.

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Martial Arts expert Antony Cummins reveals the hitherto hidden world of Viking hand-to-hand combat, employing the sword, the spear, the axe and the shield. Based upon a careful analysis of the Norse Sagas, the techniques described are recreated precisely, from knocking down a spear in mid-flight to the shield cleave. Illustrated with over 250 images, The Illustrated Guide to Viking Martial Arts in effect represents the earliest combat manual in the world. This insight into the warriors who were the scourge of Dark Age Europe is a feat of textual interpretation - and imagination.