Thor’s axe , Guðvinr , was a gift from the dwarves , Sindri and Brokkr , following the events of Ragnarök . Sindri and Brokkr were the ones who gifted Thor with Mjolnir , back in the day ------------------- and in the events of Ragnarök , which rippled across the nine realms , the dwarves too were impacted by Surtr’s destruction and the wars that followed . the dwarves heard about how a. Thor had risked his life to protect them from further destruction , and b. how Mjolnir had not survived the fight , and so they pieced together their remaining materials , remaining strength , to gift the thunderer with Guðvinr .
Guðvinr , pronounced guth - vin - r , means “ friend of God ” --- and that’s exactly what the axe is ; a companion in battle , supporter of existing strength , as opposed to the threatening , all - powerful weapon that Mjolnir was
it is in no way a “ Mjolnir 2.0 ″ --- unlike Stormbreaker , Guðvinr isn’t meant to be bigger , better , more badass than ever before . it isn’t a replacement of a weapon that used to be , but exists in its own right as a weapon that reflects Thor’s current capabilities . note how Thor learns to channel electricity without needing Mjolnir to assist him . ultimately , Guðvinr represents that development and seeks to enhance it
in other words , Guðvinr isn’t the weapon , Thor is the weapon
unlike Mjolnir , anyone can lift Guðvinr , and it doesn’t return to Thor’s hand . it is , through appearance and functionality alone , a simple , long - handled battle axe
the materials used to make it are special , though --- from the blade , to the long , deep red wooden handle , the axe is made from unbreakable materials , and built with colours that are meant to reflect Thor’s personality . black as undefeatable , representing the never - ending strength . red representing courage , and determination . gold representing his heart , his good nature
the blade , made from a metallic substance specific to the region of Niðavellir , home of said dwarves , is black , but glints silver under certain light . it also channels lightning effectively , so it can carry and propel Thor’s existing strength in battle
the leather straps are wound strategically in place to assist with grip . they turn black when electricity courses through them , and slowly transition back to their golden hue over time --- materials that were designed specifically to withstand that surge of energy
and the thing is , anyone can lift and use Guðvinr ----------------- but only if you know how to use a battle axe , so specifically designed for Thor , can you really make an impact with it . it’s like a gun --- anyone can use one , but you need special skills to be able to hit targets with accuracy , to know how to reload and handle that live weapon .
Thor values Guðvinr as a prized weapon for its simplicity that hides such potential in the right hands . often , acts as a reminder of how humility is truly Thor’s greatest strength .
