Roman Gladius Swords
-
Sale! Out of stock
-
Sale! Out of stock
-
Sale! Out of stock
History of the Gladius Sword
The Roman sword of choice was the Gladius. Most of these 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 Gladius, with the main difference in construction being the shape of the blade. Another variation of the Mainz was called a Fulham Gladius, made with a slightly narrower blade and a triangular tip.
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. It was one of the most effective close-quarters combat tools ever forged. Essentially, the Roman Gladius was a versatile arm that helped the ancient Roman army become one of the most unnerving militaries in the entire world.
The standard sword used by Roman legions was a short sword called the Gladius Hispaniensis. It 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 Roman short sword was one of the finest tools of war back then, it has been reinvented at least a half dozen times. Some popular swords, like the Cinquadia, Coustille, Kindjal, Arkansas Toothpick, and more, were pretty much the same as this famed sword.
Why did the Romans Stop Using the Gladius?
The extensive usage of the Spatha among ancient troops led to the outdatedness of this sword 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 Roman soldiers used short swords like those of the ancient Greeks. These early ancient Roman swords were called Xiphos. This 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?
It represented the primary sword of chivalric Roman foot soldiers. The Roman Gladius was typically considered to be a stabbing weapon, thanks to its 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
The popular Roman sword 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 modeled off their historic cousins to feature an authentic and impressive look and feel. Just handling one of these swords will make you feel like a Roman legionary.