Pages: 67-79 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.55086/sp2546779

Based on metallographic studies, the article examines the finds of swords from the burial grounds of the Ryazan-Oka culture of Undrich and Borok 2. The swords were broken in antiquity, which allowed us to study their blades with the help of cross-slits. The method of spectrography established the chemical composition of the swords, and analogies of modern steel grades were selected. The swords are made with the technology of a three-layer package and welded Damascus steel. The presence of phosphorus testifies to the imported origin of several swords, local masters made others. Both technologies existed simultaneously and were quite widespread in the culture of the Ryazan-Oka Finns, from where these products reached the territory of the Kama region.

Keywords: swords, early Middle Ages, Middle Oka, Ryazan Finns, metallography, technology, Damascus steel

Information about authors:

Alexander Gavrilov (Shilovo, Russian Federation). Shilovo Museum of Local Lore. Spasskaya St., 38, Shilovo, 391500, Ryazan Oblast, Russian Federation
E-mail: [email protected]
ORCID: 0009-0002-4506-6006
Vladimir Stavitsky (Penza, Russian Federation). Doctor of Historical Sciences. Penza State University. Krasnaya St., 40, Penza, 440026, Russian Federation
E-mail: [email protected]
ORCID: 0000-0002-5957-3781