Czech made describes where the work happens. Ransack Viking is a US company based in Chicago, Illinois. Pieces are handmade in the Czech Republic, then imported, inspected and shipped from Chicago. Engraving is done in the US after arrival. On this tag that covers a different side of the catalogue from the blades, because the same workshops produce the small metalwork and the drinking gear.
What is on this tag
Polished steel valknut pendants with Elder Futhark rune bands on black leather cord, rose tone Viking axe hoop earrings with Celtic knotwork heads and hinged snap closures, stainless and brass Viking tankards with knotwork bands and riveted bodies, and an ash bat at 32 inches with galvanized wire wrap and an engraved steel collar. Steel work is polished or blackened, fittings are brass and stainless, and leather is riveted rather than glued.
Small metalwork and why it is harder than it looks
A pendant is a small object with nowhere to hide a bad joint. Bails have to be soldered or riveted cleanly, knotwork has to close properly where the strands cross, and a rune band that is off by one character is visible forever. Machine stamped work is uniform and lifeless. Hand finished work has slight variation between pieces, which is the tell that a person was involved. If you are buying a valknut specifically, the valknut article is honest about how much is actually known.
Where these end up
Mostly as gifts, and often as a set with something larger. The jewelry is in the Damascus steel jewelry, the drinking gear in the Viking beer mugs, and the pieces couples buy in quantity on the wedding and groomsmen shelf.
Sizes and fit
Pendants come on a leather cord or a chain depending on the piece, and the listing says which. Earrings are hinged snap closures rather than hooks. Tankards are riveted rather than welded, which is the traditional construction and the reason they can be repaired. Nothing here is plated over a soft base, so it will not wear through to a different color underneath.
Inspection
Every piece is opened and checked in Chicago before it ships, and anything that fails that check does not get listed.
Care
Polished steel takes fingerprints and wipes clean with a soft cloth. Leather cord wants keeping out of long soaking. Tankards are hand wash only, since a dishwasher will dull brass and loosen a riveted handle over time.
Free US shipping
On most pieces. Heavier and oversized ones carry a flat charge.
Hand Forged
Heated, hammered and ground by hand.
Engraving available
Names, dates or Norse runes on most pieces.
