The Francisca, so named for its Frankish origins, was used by the Vikings both as a throwing weapon and for close-quarters combat. Its graceful lines are legendary but the upswept point and downturned edge were both capable of penetrating chain mail. The Francisca features a forged head with a fire-gray or antiqued finish and a swelled-end hardwood shaft for secure head retention. The shaft is also backswept, as were the originals, providing greater sticking capability when thrown.