Viking Blades and the Science of Steel

For ulfberht sword, we synthesize lab results (metallography, SEM-EDS, microhardness) and archaeological context to explain the evidence without speculation.
🔎 In this episode, we cover:
• What “+ULFBERHT+” means: brand/workshop vs single smith; dating
• Crucible steel vs bloomery/pattern-weld: what tests show
• Variation: authentic vs imitation blades and diagnostics
• Trade networks: wootz/crucible ingots via Volga/Byzantine routes
• Limits, uncertainties, and why this reshapes medieval metallurgy
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⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 — Why Ulfberht matters
00:40 — The inscription and date range
01:20 — Lab evidence: crucible vs bloomery
02:00 — Imitations and how to spot them
02:40 — Trade routes and materials
03:20 — Performance and limits
04:00 — Why it matters + CTA

Sources:
Smithsonian Magazine — “The Secrets of the Viking Sword”

Wallace Collection (Alan Williams) — metallographic studies on Ulfberht blades

Alan Williams — The Sword and the Crucible

Technical notes on Volga trade route and eastern materials in Viking contexts (museum/research institute overviews)

#vikingarchaeology #medievalweapons #losttechnology