dispelling Myths about medieval Combat

[Talon]

A screw thread on the end of the tang is fine if it's part of the tang and the end of the tang is keyed to sit in the pommel.The A Trim swords are made this way,with a nut that screws down on a recess in the tang.It makes for a strong mechanical fix that allows you to strip the sword down for maintenance though not historical (until we get into Renaissance swords) it's totally fine. Though it's not a hot peen it does hold up to extensive cutting

A welded on threaded section where the pommel isn't keyed (like the Cold Steel viking,and the Gross Messer that i stripped) is a very poor way of attaching the pommel.Also the Cold Steel viking's grip is too long.It's more of a hand and a half length than a historical viking design.

Cold steel do make some useful things,their hawks are generally well received and good value for the money.Their swords are extremely overpriced (especially in the UK) and of poorer quality than a lot of swords that are out there.
A Hanwei ht t Tinker line viking is a much better/cheaper alternative (though the HT grip is still a little on the long side) It does have a keyed pommel that has been peened and the blade is made from 5160 with a good heat treat and temper.
Other decent viking styles would be something from Valiant Armoury/Kris cutlery,or even Windlass,but anyone wanting an affordable functional sword should steer away from Cold Steel,the exception being the 1796 sabre.
With Cold Steel you get a little sword for a lot of money.

Like TM said researching before you buy is paramount.