Knowledge of Viking Age military technology (late 8th to mid-11th century Europe) is based on scarce archaeological findings, visual depiction, and, to some degree, narratives in Norse sagas and legislation documented in the 14th century. All free Norse males were obligated to possess weapons and were authorized to carry them at all times, according to tradition. Indeed, the Hvaml, purportedly Odin's wise advise, warns, "Don't leave your weapons laying around behind your back in a field; you never know when you may need your spear all of a sudden." [1]
This idea contradicts the discovery of just one helmet in Norwegian and Scandinavian Viking burial mounds.
Could the reason be that the Vikings only utilized iron helmets to a limited degree because they were just too heavy? Aside from firearms, food, and other supplies, it was critical to reduce the weight to a minimum. Last but not least, there should be space for trade products that will be brought back to Scandinavia.
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