Vikings are the manliest men in history. The men of all men. And, for one day, I took a swing at living the Viking life… well, without the pillaging and murdering.
This is how I became a Modern Viking!
What makes a Viking?
Have a ripped physique. As you can see, I cheated a little at getting my skull crushing biceps and hard as steel six pack abs.
Drink the nectar of the gods. Mead is made from honey and possibly the oldest alcoholic beverage.
Wield an Axe. The weapon of choice for all Vikings.
Less than 20 minutes away from me, a Meadery and Axe Archery Range opened up in Lancaster city. This seemed like the perfect opportunity for me to knock an item off of my bucket list and experience the thrill of throwing an axe.
Walking into the doors, the Meadery and Axe Archery Range was clearly inspired by the Vikings. Tapestry and art hung throughout the building with historical facts next to them. Usually, when you enter a fitness center or range, your nostrils take a hit of sweat and mat plastic. However, this Meadery was a stylish and relaxing atmosphere.
The Mead
Taking a sip of a Lavender infused Orange Blossom Honey mead.
During the age of Vikings, mead was made by fermenting honey and without adding any yeast. At the Meadery, they sell an array of flavors, which are all made from local honeys. They took a modern twist on the ancient beverage with flavors such as Lavender, Sweet Tea and Mango. You can sample the meads in a flight, cup or horn.
Axe Throwing
Out of nowhere, Axe Throwing has become a booming business opportunity. Thrill seekers and history enthusiasts flock to the new axe throwing locations, and test their aim and strength.
Like an archery or shooting range, the concept is quite similar. This time, you use an axe to hit a target. The range is set up like a batting cage, with a chain link fence separating you from your opponent. I found this concept intriguing and this activity quickly rose to the top of my bucket list.
You are briefly trained on the proper way of holding, aiming and letting go of the axe by an experienced employee. You will hold the axe with a firm grip, like holding a baseball bat, and have the blade facing straight ahead. Then, bring the axe over and behind your head while leaning back slightly. Once you are ready to throw, bring your arms forward and release the axe handle when your arms are fully extended in front of you.
It may take a few practice shots before you can hit the target since the movement is not natural to us. Of course, you do want to practice all safety protocols since you are handling a weapon and will have to sign a legal form before entering the archery range.
Watch this Axe Throwing video!
The Experience
With limited opportunities to hold a weapon, aim and throw it in a range, the thrill of drinking mead and wielding an axe is unmatched. Try becoming a Viking for a Day!
