Roman Xanten Gladius with sheath, 3rd c.

Description

Roman Xanten Gladius with sheath, 3rd c.
Roman Xanten Gladius with sheath, 3rd c.
The gladius, the main weapon of the Roman legionnaires of the s. Ⅲ. A.C. to 3rd c. AD, was used in many variations over the centuries. But finally, this highly feared short sword was gradually replaced by the longest spatha during the Middle/Late Roman Empire.
The Roman short sword we offer here is equipped with a steel blade for EN45 springs (not tempered, not tempered). The edges are not sharp and the entire blade nipple is bolted to the knob (upper brass nut). The handle is made of bone, protection and wooden knob. The protector features an inserted brass plate. Unlike the classic-style Pompeii gladii with straight, parallel cutting edges and short triangular tip, the leaf has a lenticular/almond cross section and gently narrows towards the ojival tip. This particular leaf form is based on an unusual finding by Xanten (North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany) dating back to the late Roman Empire (around the 3rd century A..C D.) but which has been somewhat difficult to classify.
This one-handed Roman sword comes complete with a wooden sheath and ornate leather with brass accessories. Unlike the leaf, the pod is based on real historical examples of the Pompeii type. The reliquary is decorated in an elaborate way with partially tarnished details: the two iconographic plates installed on the observation side show trimmed/perforated motifs and engravings of a figure with a helmet in full clothing. The V-shaped framed hood, button finish and horizontal band is adorned with a pattern of stylized curls and topped with a palm. Cast brass suspension rings allow the wearer to bring his gladius to the true Roman style.
Note that this sword is not a battle-ready weapon. It is designed as a collection piece or decoration/exhibition and is not suitable for combat recreation. In addition to its quality as a collection object, it also fits perfectly as an accessory, p. E.g. to complete your costume.
Details:
Material: STEEL blade for EN45 springs (high carbon steel, non-stainless), bone grip, wooden protector and knob with nut with brass handle and protector inlay.
Overall length: approx. 69 cm.
Blade length: approx. 49 cm.
Blade thickness: approx. 4.6 mm / 3.7 mm (cutting edges approx.1 mm).
Handle length: approx. 20 cm (grip approx.9.5 cm).
Max. blade width: approx. 5 cm.
Balance point: approx. 9 cm from the guard.
Incl. wooden sheath with genuine leather sheath and brass hardware.
Weight without sheath: approx. 0.6 kilograms.
Weight with sheath: approx. 1 kilogram.