While not a direct copy of any particular sword, the Viking sword design was inspired by historical examples from the early 9th Century, most notably finds from the area around Trondheim, Norway, where the circular indentation hilt decoration was popular.The scabbards are provided with suspension points and a period chape, giving the sheathed sword a very attractive appearance. The construction of the Viking "pair" differs from other swords in the Tinker series inasmuch as they are tang-riveted (peened) in period fashion at the pommel, primarily to satisfy Viking re-enactment requirements, and the blunt blade design is very much directed towards re-enactment rather than sparring. However, as with the other swords in the series, replacement blades are available and Tinker is offering a blade-replacement and re-peening service for users unable to undertake the task themselves. See model SH2408 for the Tinker Sharp Viking Sword.