ROMAN SWORD (Silver tone) 4116NQ by DENIX
The Roman Sword, or Gladius, evolved from weapons captured during the Romans campaign in the Iberian peninsula. By the first century A.D., it had been refined to the form shown in this replica by Denix of Toledo Spain. The handle and scabbard are engraved and embossed in silver finish with classic Roman designs. The 20 1/4" cast metal blade of this replica sword is 2.5" wide with a distinctive blood groove. The blades of Denix daggers and swords are cast from a metal alloy and cannot be sharpened, making them safe for display in family environments. As an additional benefit of cast alloy material, the blade loudly produces the "classic ring sound" when quickly drawn from its scabbard making this a perfect piece for film or live theatre stage. Overall Length in Scabbard: 29 1/4" . Weight: 3.9 lbs.
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THE ROMAN GLADIUS
A fully-equipped Roman soldier would have been armed with, several javelins (pila), a sword (gladius), a shield (scutum), a dagger (pugio) and perhaps a number of darts (plumbatae). Conventionally, the javelins would be thrown before engaging the enemy, at which point the gladius would be drawn. The soldier generally led with his shield and thrust with his sword. Despite the gladius being designed for thrusting at the enemy from behind the protection of the shield, all types of gladius appear to have been suitable for slashing and chopping motions. Though the primary infantry attack was thrusting at stomach height, they were trained to take any advantage, such as slashing at kneecaps beneath the shield wall.