Roman Gladius, Scabbard & Display StandHistorically Accurate Replica ••• The gladius was the definitive weapon of the Roman legions for five centuries, as well as for gladiators (Latin: gladiator, ‘swordsman’, from gladius ‘sword’) that competed in the arena. This is the full size 31” gladius built to same specifications as originals (see specs at bottom) used by Roman legions. Most for sale online are the smaller 18” replicas. Originally ordered one to evaluate. This is best gladius on market in the under $100 price range imho. See my Seller Ratings and buy with confidence, plus I ship fast! 8/10/20 a dozen more in stock PRODUCT DESCRIPTION31″ Overall Length22.25″ Long Stainless Steel Blade, 2″ Wide RicassoBlade Features Mirror Finish Etched with Knotwork Engravings8″ Handle, Hard ABS & Zinc Alloy with Traditional Knurled GripIncludes Ornately Designed Scabbard, Hilt & PommelItem is Brand New and Includes Display StandNotes: Well done, one of the better replicas on the market. Factory edge (not sharp) to make it safe for intended purpose, stand is so-so. ABS high impact grip and sheath simulated wood with high gloss finish, cast zinc alloy fittings , mirror finished 440 stainless steel blade with decorative knot-work etching. Nice! ••• This is the sword that Roman Legions used to conquer large parts of the known world, in use from 3rd Century BC to 3rd Century AD. Gladii were two-edged for cutting and had a tapered point for stabbing during thrusting. A solid grip was provided by a knobbed hilt, usually with ridges for the fingers called the capulus. It was often ornate, especially the sword-hilts of officers and dignitaries. Stabbing was a very efficient technique, as stabbing wounds, especially in the abdominal area, were almost always deadly. However, the gladius in some circumstances was used for cutting or slashing, as indicated by Livy’s account of the Macedonian Wars, wherein the Macedonian soldiers were horrified to see dismembered bodies. 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. Indeed a fearsome weapon, especially in th ehands of trained Legionaires and Gladiators. The gladius was sheathed in a scabbard mounted on a belt or shoulder strap Historic Specifications: Weight 1.5–2.2 lb (0.7–1 kg) Overall Length 24–33 in (60–85 cm ) Blade Length 18–27 in (45–68 cm ) Blade Width 2.0–2.8 in (5–7 cm )