ROMAN GLADIUS SWORD (708310) made in CHINA
Simulated wood finish cast metal handle with antique brass finish sculpted cast metal guard and pommel. Gold tone insignias on front and back of guard - one side depicting Wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, and the opposite side displays the Empire's Eagle. Laser etched design highlights the 22 " mirror polished unsharpened stainless blade. Beautiful embossed Roman Battle Scenes decorate a matching scabbard. Includes wooden tabletop display stand. Sold as Decorator Model and is NOT Battle Worthy. Ideal for Theatrical Use or for display in home or office.

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.