The Last Kingdom presents a gritty and immersive portrayal of the Saxon-Viking wars, where loyalty is often bought with blood and steel. Among its many visual strengths, the series gives particular attention to the weapons of its main characters. Swords are not just tools of war here. They are personal, often symbolic extensions of identity. Below is a considered look at the finest swords in The Last Kingdom, based on craftsmanship, impact on the story, and historical plausibility.
Serpent-Breath – Uhtred’s Sword
Uhtred’s sword, Serpent-Breath, is perhaps the most iconic weapon in the series. Forged for him in his youth, it accompanies him through battles in Northumbria, Wessex, and beyond.
The blade itself has a simple yet elegant design, well-balanced for both cutting and thrusting. Its curved guard and dark hilt offer visual distinction, while its name speaks to the personal connection Uhtred has with his weapon. Serpent-Breath is more than steel. It is a symbol of his dual identity as a Saxon raised by Danes, and his constant struggle to define his loyalties. Historically, its design blends elements from both Viking and Anglo-Saxon sword-making traditions, particularly with the fuller running down the centre and the minimalistic pommel.
Wasp-Sting – Uhtred’s Short Sword
Often overlooked, Wasp-Sting is Uhtred’s secondary weapon. Smaller and more agile, it functions as a backup in close combat or when Serpent-Breath is lost or broken.
Its inclusion highlights the practicality of warriors of the time. Few would go into battle with a single blade. The short sword would be useful in confined spaces and grappling situations, and its speed made it ideal for opportunistic strikes.
Finan’s Sword
Finan, Uhtred’s loyal second-in-command, carries a practical yet deadly weapon. Unlike the highly personalised swords of nobles, Finan’s blade reflects his origins as a former Irish warrior. It is sturdy, with a no-nonsense look that matches his fighting style: direct, brutal, and efficient.
While not as elaborately decorated, Finan’s sword is arguably one of the most effective in the show, used with great skill in shield walls and one-on-one duels. It exemplifies the kind of weapon many seasoned warriors of the time would carry, reliable and made for survival over style.
Haesten’s Sword
Haesten, the opportunistic and self-serving Dane, possesses a sword with a more menacing design. It often appears slightly heavier, reflecting his aggressive, blunt approach to both combat and politics. The darker tone of the blade and crossguard may not be strictly historical but it serves to underline his role as an antagonist.
From a visual standpoint, the weapon fits with his persona: fearsome, boastful, and treacherous. While not as storied as Serpent-Breath, Haesten’s sword adds character flair and thematic contrast.
King Alfred’s Sword
Though King Alfred rarely wields a blade himself, the sword he possesses symbolises kingship and divine authority rather than martial prowess. Its craftsmanship is cleaner, with subtle detailing on the hilt and pommel. As a ceremonial piece, it echoes the kind of regalia real Anglo-Saxon monarchs might have owned.
In terms of historical accuracy, Alfred’s sword is one of the more realistic in the series. Based on archaeological finds from the 9th century, its understated elegance fits the pious and intellectual image of the king.
Historical Context and Design Notes
Most swords depicted in The Last Kingdom draw inspiration from real 9th and 10th-century examples. Blades were typically pattern-welded, featuring a fuller for balance and lighter weight. Pommels ranged from simple lobes to more ornate trilobate shapes, and guards were often straight or gently curved. In reality, few warriors outside the elite would own such swords. Most foot soldiers used spears or axes.
The show takes some liberties with ornamentation and personalisation. However, it generally avoids the extravagance seen in other fantasy series, favouring a grounded aesthetic rooted in historical precedent.
The Seven Swords takeaway
The best swords in The Last Kingdom are those that deepen the character behind them. Serpent-Breath represents Uhtred’s inner conflict, while Finan’s blade reflects brutal honesty. Even ceremonial swords like Alfred’s carry weight through symbolism. While the series occasionally diverges from strict historical accuracy, it rarely does so without purpose. The weapons serve the story, not just the spectacle.
