The Academy of Viking Martial Arts does not glamorize weapon use, but we do teach techniques to defend against, disarm and use weapons in life threatening situations.

If you ever find yourself in being attacked by someone with a weapon, the best thing to do is to get away from such a situation as fast as possible. If you can't run away, or believe that you must defend yourself and others, what then? In this situation, self-defense techniques are needed.

Hopefully, you will never be attacked or end up in such a dangerous situation, but there is violent crime in the world and attacks with weapons happen. If you are serious about learning self defense skills, join a reputable martial arts school and start training.

April 05, 2023

LAUSTAK VIKING SWORD GRIP by Tyr Neilsen

April 05, 2023/ AVK

The Laustak grip is the most important hand technique in the martial arts of the Vikings, and is a game-changer for every Viking sword enthusiast. It allows for superior control, precision, and maneuverability in combat situations, and it’s effortless when used correctly.

As martial artists and weapon enthusiasts, we know that grip is extremely important. It can mean the difference between ‘life and death’ in a swordfight, and the success or failure of a maneuver. That’s why it’s crucial to understand the importance of the Laustak grip on Viking swords.

The Old Norse word Lausatök meant Loose-grip/Free-grip, wich perfectly describes this grip. The beauty of the Laustak grip lies in its simplicity, and when mastered, it feels natural, almost effortless, giving more freedom and better control when wielding a Viking sword.

The secret of the Laustak grip is the semi-passive index finger, which leaves a three-finger grip, locked by the thumb. By not gripping tight with the index finger as well as the other three fingers, the wrist is more flexible and has more range of motion, giving the laustak grip a massive advantage over other grips.

The Laustak grip makes for much better control and allows considerably more dexterous maneuvers than the standard four-finger ‘hammer’ grip.

This Laustak grip gives the index finger control of the sword in a way that is impossible with a full four finger grip. Applying pressure from the index finger to the grip at certain moments can secure or build on the grip - so long as the index finger isn’t fixed and can relax or release without negatively impacting the grip.

Working the index finger against the crossguard in unison with the three fingered grip on the sword grip, provides substantial control and precision, and increases the maneuverability and versatility of the Viking sword.

The versatility of the Laustak grip ranges from a loose to a firm grip, without cramping the hand or arm, or the versatility of the weapon. It provides the supple and active grip needed to hold and use a Viking sword to the full.

The Laustak grip allows for superior control of cuts, blocks, parries, and disarms with dexterity and effectiveness. It’s so effortless when used correctly, that it makes the hammer grip seem clumsy and slow in comparison.

The Laustak grip unlocks the full potention of long and short Viking swords. If you're serious about mastering your Viking sword, then the Laustak grip is an essential technique to add to your arsenal.

With practice, this advanced grip will revolutionize the way you wield a Viking sword.