In the late Viking era this style of hilt was referred to regionally as a ‘gaddhjalt’ (pr. gahd-hyalt) or ‘spike hilt,’ due to the distinctive thin quillons on the guard — distinguishing it from the earlier, more ‘stout’ Viking hilt forms. Hilts with long slim crossguards were categorized as a Type X by Jan Petersen. He dates these to a period spanning from the early 10th to the mid-11th centuries. This type of sword was the precursor of what we refer to today as the ‘Crusader cruciform hilt.’ This sword is designed to be a perfected representative of this type, blending the properties of several originals and their common design elements into a simple, yet dramatically beautiful and dynamic sword of the period. The hilt components are investment cast in mild steel from original waxes carved by Peter Johnsson, based on his first-hand examination and documentation of period originals of this type. The blade is classified as a Geibig Type 5 (which also could be described as an Oakeshott Type Xa or XI). The blade is made of high carbon steel to high tolerances in aspects regarding harmonic proportions and mass distribution as observed in original blades of the same type. To establish edge geometry and precise surface definition they are hand ground to a fine satin finish, sharpened and heat-treated in the Albion Forge Shop to a perfect balance between edge retention and toughness. The grip is of stabilized birch, wrapped with cord and covered with the highest grade vegetable-tanned calfskin.
Albion’s premium, heirloom quality swords are some of the best available worldwide. Each limited edition Albion sword is made by hand, one sword at a time, by a group of the most talented blademakers and cutlers in the world. Albion swords are made entirely in America of the highest quality materials — but with a distinctly European flair — starting with painstaking research of period originals and exacting design work by noted Swedish swordsmith, author and researcher, Peter Johnsson. No detail is too small to replicate faithfully. Each sword is hand-made to order with time-proven traditional construction and no shortcuts or compromises, with the time and attention of a master craftsman. Even though swords are no longer used in warfare, Albion still makes each sword as though your life depended upon it.
James High –
James High This sword is well worth the price and gives katana a real challenge!!!!
Greg –
Simple yet near perfect This sword took nearly months to get to me from the time it was ordered. Kult Of Athena is awesome, btw. The Box came. Albion did not inform me that it had been shipped. All i noticed was that i had a Package coming from FED-X because i am a account holder. The Box itself was just simple cardboard and i did not feel like it was packaged the way a 900.00 product should be. The sword itself is Very Nice. The fit and finish is VERY good. It swings well and is balanced VERY good. It easily cut through a tatami mat Soaked. Its Look, feel and balance are an easy 9 out of 10. I wish A lbion had taken care to keep me informed about its progress, shipped it in a More secure Box and maybe included some letter inside the box other then the bill of sale. It might not be too big a deal though and im happy with this near perfect sword. A Viking would have simply loved this !! and he and I will carry it proudly and with a sense of Awe and Thankfulness…
Scott Allen Vampola –
I’ve had the Gaddhjalt for over a year now and I’m still amazed by it. I had to wait about 9 months. It’s very sharp and very well made. The weapon is beautiful. I practice with it a little and feel that it could be relied upon in battle. It’s my first sword and I’m so happy I went with Albion. I wanted a true, battle-ready sword and that’s exactly what I got.