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.

November 23, 2019

LAUSTAK WEAPON GRIP by Tyr Neilsen

November 23, 2019/ AVK

The Laustak grip is an advanced technique for wielding weapons with utmost precision and control.

The Laustak grip is unique in that it provides both greater stability and mobility, and its versatility across a range of weapons, is an invaluable tool for any serious martial artist.

Laustak in Norwegian (Lausatök in Old Norse) means Loose-grip/Free-grip. It was the name for the type of Viking wrestling where competitors were not restricted to one single compulsary grip, and the name used for unarmed combat that was Viking battlefield wrestling.

The secret of the Laustak glima grip is the semi-passive index finger, which leaves a three-finger grip towards 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.

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.

Grip strength is important in combat, but strength is not enough, flexibility is also needed. No matter how strong a person’s grip is, it can be broken by using the correct technique. Combat with weapons is not static, it’s constant motion weilding a weighted object. To control a sword in a combat situation, a strong yet flexible grip is vital.

What sets the Laustak grip apart from other weapon grips is its unique ability to allow for both mobility and stability. The grip is designed in such a way that it can be tightened or loosened depending on the situation, allowing the wielder to adjust their grip on the weapon as needed. This flexibility ensures that the weapon remains secure in the hand while still allowing for quick and fluid movements.

When gripping, the arm muscles are tightened, which usually means stiffness or less flexibility. A strong grip is usually made by gripping with all four fingers towards the thumb. Although strong, this grip is prone to be ‘broken’ when the object that is being gripped moves into a position that weakens the gripping arm.

Not only does the Laustak grip on Viking weapons make for much more dexterous maneuvers than with a four finger ‘hammer’ grip, it gives the index finger control of the sword in a way that is impossible with a full four finger grip.

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

By having a grip that it is flexible whilst still being strong, there is much better control of weapons.

The Laustak grip has an impressive level of versatility, making it a valuable technique for a wide range of weapons. It is absolutely necessary for weapons such as stick, axe and sword. It’s impressively effective for the long reach of a sword, as the strength and flexibility of the Laustak grip allows for greater extension and control.

When looking to take your skills to the next level, the effectiveness of the Laustak grip, makes it a must-learn technique for any serious weapon enthusiast.