Forging History: Nils Ogren's Viking Cross Axe Build

Ever stumble across something in history that just doesn't quite fit the narrative? That's the feeling Nils Ogren captures in his latest video, forging a Viking cross axe. This isn't your typical battle axe; it’s an intriguing artifact with a cross on the head, leading to plenty of historical speculation and interesting forging challenges. If you're a bladesmith or anyone interested in the craft, this is a deep dive into a unique technique, presented with Ogren’s signature straightforward style.

Ogren's approach is rooted in historical research, referencing finds from the late Viking period and consulting the Danish Museum's insights (https://en.natmus.dk/historical-knowledge/denmark/prehistoric-period-until-1050-ad/the-viking-age/weapons/axes/). He emphasizes that this isn't a perfect replica, but rather an exploration of the techniques that *might* have been used. It’s that spirit of experimentation and learning that resonates with the Rogue Blades community – a constant pursuit of understanding the “how” and “why” behind the blade.

The core of the build revolves around a unique technique: splitting the axe body to insert a separate edge steel. Ogren uses a piece of pwell steel for the edge, showcasing a previous project and highlighting the importance of utilizing scrap material – a lesson every bladesmith can appreciate. The forging weld of the cross to the edge steel is another clever solution, tackled early in the process to avoid complications later. If you’re familiar with the techniques Alec Steele and Will Stelter champion, you’ll recognize this methodical, problem-solving approach.

What makes this video particularly engaging isn’t just the forging itself, but the historical context. The cross on the axe isn't just a design element; it’s a point of historical debate, potentially reflecting Christian influences during the Viking period. This blend of craft and historical inquiry aligns perfectly with the broader Rogue Forge movement, which extends beyond edged blades to encompass all aspects of blacksmithing, from decorative ironwork to functional tools.

Ogren’s discussion of the historical speculation is a reminder that bladesmithing isn't just about hammering steel; it's about connecting with the past and understanding the stories embedded in these objects. And for those aspiring to the Blade Angel tier, this video is a masterclass in adaptability and problem-solving – essential qualities for any serious bladesmith.

Beyond the technical aspects, Ogren demonstrates the value of meticulous detail – the hand sanding to 800 grit and the etching process to reveal the subtle pattern in the 12 layers of the edge steel. Even with a less dramatic layer count than some Damascus billets we see from creators like Black Beard Projects, the etching still provides valuable insight into the steel’s structure.

Finally, the giveaway adds a fun element, encouraging engagement and fostering community – a common practice within the Rogue Blades ecosystem. Just remember to read the pinned comment for the official rules; Nils Ogren’s channel, like many others, is targeted by scammers.

If you’re eager to learn more, consider supporting Nils Ogren through his Patreon (https://www.patreon.com/nilsogren) or joining his membership program (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC57chIWkBDYmbmcVRdwG2eQ/join). You can also find him on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nilsogren/) and through his website (https://www.nilsogren.com/).

Interested in getting hands-on? Look for a Field Trip to a bladesmithing shop or a Live Workshop at a HolyPlace. Ready to take the next step in your bladesmithing journey? Find a Blade Angel near you, sign up for a forge class, list a custom commission, or claim a creator profile – the forge awaits!