Roman Gladius Swords

History of the Gladius Sword

The Roman sword of choice was the Gladius. Most Gladius swords were of a rather short length, typically measuring between 18 and 24 inches long, although longer Roman blade designs became more common as Rome’s war machine grew and evolved.

Gladius were typically made in one of two different types, being either a Pompeii Gladius or a Mainz style, with the main difference in construction being the shape of the blade.

As they evolved, the blades became straighter and more extended, changing more and more into the sword that would inspire later era weapons, like the Arming sword and the longsword.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was the Gladius a Good Roman sword?

The Gladius was highly effective in its intended function. The Gladius was one of the most effective close-quarters combat tools ever forged. Essentially, the sword was a versatile arm that helped the ancient Roman army become one of the most unnerving militaries in the entire world.

The Gladius efficiently delivered piercing power that was ideal during medieval Roman wars. Without a doubt, a deep stab would be a kill. A slash would create critical wounds.

Because this weapon was one of the finest Roman tools of war back then, it has been reinvented a half dozen times, at least. Some popular swords like the Cinquadia, Coustille, Kindjal, Arkansas Toothpick, and more, were pretty much the same as the Gladius.

Why did the Romans stop using the Gladius?

The extensive usage of the Spatha among ancient troops led to the outdatedness of the Gladius from the late second century to the third century. The Romans saw that the Spatha was quite successful for cavalry. Hence, they began equipping their cavalrymen with the Spatha. Because of this, cavalrymen began to wear their swords on the left side from the third century, abandoning the scutum.

What sword did the Romans use before the Gladius?

The early ancient Roman army used swords like those of the ancient Greeks. These early ancient Roman swords were called Xiphos. Like the Gladius, the Xipho was a one-handed, double-edged, straight shortsword, shorter than one meter but lengthier than a dagger. The Xiphos functioned as a sidearm for intemperately girded hoplites who mainly used spears.

What was the Gladius sword used for?

The Gladius represented the primary sword of chivalric Roman foot soldiers. The Roman swords were typically considered to be stabbing weapons, thanks to their vicious point and wide blade, although their manner of construction made them quite effective at cutting and slashing, too.

High-Grade Collection of Carbon Steel Roman Swords

Some of the Gladius swords you’ll find here are designed for battle and re-enactment, making them quite sturdy and effective (as well as sharp). In contrast, others are intended purely as decoration, either displayed in your home or carried at your side. Either way, all the swords you’ll find here are modelled off their historic cousins to feature an authentic and impressive look and feel. Just handling one of these Gladius Roman Swords will make you feel like a Roman legionary.