Roman gladius, type Pompeii
The gladius was the standard weapon of Rome's legionaries between the 3rd century BC and the 3rd century AD. Over the centuries it was used in many different variations. It was designed for stabbing in battle, but also served as an extremely effective and feared cutting weapon. This gladius was named after the place where the original piece was found, which is dated to 79 AD.
Special attention was paid to the reconstruction of this gladius, which is true to history. The fuller blade is hand-forged from carbon steel and is unsharpened. The sword tang is securely fixed to the pommel by means of a brass nut.
The handle is made of bone and has troughs that allow a more comfortable grip. The guard and pommel are made of solid wood. A brass plate built into the wood of the hand guard is covered with a small piece of felt to cushion the contact between the hilt and the scabbard. The brass inlay can be easily exposed by removing the piece of felt.
The magnificent scabbard is made of wood and covered with leather. It is richly decorated with brass fittings based on found objects. The upper brass mouthplate depicts a warrior on foot. In the lower field, the same warrior is depicted on his two-horse chariot. On either side of the scabbard mouthplate are two cast brass carrying rings, enabling the wearer to carry his gladius like a real Roman.
Details:
- Material: blade of EN45 carbon steel, handle of bone, quillons and pommel of wood, fastening nut and hand guard inlay of brass.
- Total length: approx. 68.8 cm
- Blade length: approx. 48.8 cm
- Blade width: approx. 5 cm
- Handle length: approx. 20 cm (handle section approx. 9 cm)
- Weight (without scabbard): approx. 710 g
- Incl. scabbard with wooden core, genuine leather cover (sewn) and brass applications
Scope of delivery: 1x Roman gladius incl. sword scabbard