Who Are We?
We're Gildihrafn, a Viking-age (900-1100 AD) re-enactment and fencing club based in Jyväskylä, formed in 2022.
While we operate in Central Finland, our members come from all across the country. We hold weekly training sessions and occasional craft nights and workshops. During the summer months, we participate in re-enactment events throughout Finland. Our members include martial arts experts and enthusiasts, history buffs, and craftspeople. We're also a founding member of the FVMF (Finnish viking age martial arts federation), the parent organization for Viking swordfighting in Finland.
Our club's emblem is an ochre raven, stylized as the axe of Perun, set against a blue background. This is a nod to Odin's messenger, a wise and careful resident of the wilderness who's a scavenger and collector of all things shiny.
Why Join Us?
We're a diverse and strong community with an active member base and plenty to do. You can participate as much or as little as you like, whether in person or remote, interested in historical accuracy or a more modern approach, or if you're looking to have fun or compete and excel. While we take our hobby seriously, our primary focus is on having fun with a great group of like-minded people!
Our Approach to Combat: Instead of using wooden swords or padded pipes, we fight with real steel from the very beginning. You can learn and develop at your own pace without fear of being overwhelmed; we have participants of all skill levels to spar with. We also have a good supply of steel weapons and protective gear, so you don't need to start your journey at a swordsmith's shop or an armory. We practice with a wide array of period weaponry, and our more seasoned fighters are known for being both tough opponents and great company.
More Than Just Fighting: If sword fighting isn't your style, no problem! We have plenty of other options, including event organizing, camp life, workshops, feasts, and Viking-age weekends.
Our Governance: The club is democratic, and every "raven" has an equal voice. We hold democratic votes on all important issues. Our active board handles the day-to-day operations, including inventory, purchases, planning, and fundraising. We welcome new members to join the board, requiring only an open mind, a can-do attitude, and a commitment to making the club a great organization for everyone.
What Is Viking Combat?
Viking-age combat is a form of sports swordsmanship where we fight with blunted, early-medieval weapons. We practice several styles, but the Ravens primarily use the Eastern style, which permits larger hit zones, including the head. Fighting can take many forms: duels, free-for-all, teams, bridge pushes, or grand line battles. While the loud clang of steel-on-steel makes the fights look fierce, safety is the top priority for every single fighter. This is achieved through experience and training.
Arms And Armor
Viking-age armaments offer a dazzling array of options. In addition to local Nordic weapons, Vikings also used many imported weapons acquired through trade and travel. Our basic weaponry includes straight one-handed swords, axes, sabers, seax knives, spears, and the fearsome Dane axe. Shields are an integral part of the hobby; we mostly use 60-100cm round shields, though you might occasionally see a kite shield.
For fighting, modern HEMA and motocross armor are perfectly adequate. When re-enacting, you simply need to wear this armor under a layer of period-appropriate clothing (cotton, linen, etc.), paired with a safe, period-appropriate helmet and thick leather gloves. Enthusiastic warriors also complement their gear with leather armguards, chainmail, lamellar armor, and the like. Having a gorgeous kit is a big part of the sport - it's not only the envy of your companions but also a way to show respect for the hobby and your fellow fighters!