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The Gladius

Roman, Roman legionnaire, The Gladius -

The Gladius

The gladius was the weapon of choice for hand-to-hand combat and probably responsible for more fatalities than any other tool in the Roman legion’s arsenal. This short sword, known as gladius hispaniensis, was originally introduced to Rome by Spanish mercenaries. By 200 BC, the gladius had become more or less a permanent fixture in the Roman legion. It possessed a 50 cm, two-edged blade with a sharp point and was a formidable weapon despite its small size. This quite wonderfully balanced blade, fashioned of Spanish iron, was also the perfect stabbing weapon! But while the gladius was designed as a...

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Roman Soldier Gear – The Legionary

Gladius, Helmets, Roman, Shield, Soldiers -

Roman Soldier Gear – The Legionary

A Roman legionary had to be a Roman citizen and over 17 years of age. And, of course, he had to be a stud – fit, strong, and brave. Anything less and he would be rejected. Roman soldiers typically signed up for 25 years of service. If they survived the time, they were gifted a land they could farm. But surviving in the brutal battlefields was tough. It required skill and armor and gear you could trust. A Roman legionary could carry between 66–100 lbs of gear and weapon, which included corn rations and a tent. A helmet called a Galea...

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