Lethal war machine: Weapons and armour of the Roman legions

Roman legion with standard
Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/gladiators-in-battle-formation-12479524/

Roman legionaries were professional soldiers who served in the ancient Roman army. They were recruited from Roman citizens and served for a minimum of 20 years, with the promise of land and other benefits upon completion of their service.

 

Legionaries were organized into legions, which were units of around 5,000 to 6000 soldiers commanded by a legate, with each legion consisting of smaller units called cohorts, centuries, and maniples.

 

The Roman legionaries were some of the most formidable and disciplined warriors in history, feared and respected by their enemies.

 

They were renowned for their well-designed weapons and armor that gave them an edge in battle.

 

In this article, we will explore the complete guide to the weapons and armor used by the Roman legionaries.

Weapons


Pilum (spear)

The Pilum was the primary weapon of the Roman legionary. It was a javelin designed to be thrown at the enemy before engaging in hand-to-hand combat.

 

The Pilum had a long, thin shaft made of wood, and a metal tip that was designed to bend upon impact, making it difficult for the enemy to remove from their shield or body.

 

This weapon was crucial in disrupting the enemy's formation and creating chaos, allowing the legionaries to close in for the kill.

Roman soldiers marching
Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/legion-roman-army-ancient-military-444126/

Gladius (sword)

The Gladius was the quintessential Roman sword, used primarily for thrusting in close combat.

 

It had a short, double-edged blade that was ideal for stabbing the enemy in the chest or abdomen.

 

The hilt was made of wood or bone and was designed to fit snugly in the hand, providing the wielder with excellent control and maneuverability.

Roman gladius
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Spatha (another sword)

The Spatha was a longer and heavier sword than the Gladius.

 

It was primarily used by cavalry and auxiliary troops, but also by legionaries in the later stages of the Roman Empire.

 

The blade was longer and broader, making it ideal for slashing and cutting.

Roman sword
Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/army-military-soldier-man-guard-4361876/

Pugio (dagger)

The Pugio was a dagger that was carried by Roman soldiers as a backup weapon.

 

It was used for close combat and for personal protection. The Pugio was a versatile weapon, used for stabbing, slashing, and thrusting.

 

It was often used in conjunction with the Gladius, allowing the legionary to switch between the two weapons depending on the situation.


Armour


Scutum (shield)

The Scutum was the Roman shield and one of the most important pieces of armor used by the legionary.

 

It was a large rectangular shield made of wood and covered with a layer of leather.

 

The shield was curved, allowing the legionary to hold it close to the body and provide excellent protection from incoming attacks.

 

It was also designed to interlock with the shields of other legionaries, creating an impenetrable wall that was difficult for the enemy to breach.

The only known surviving example of the semicylindrical shield known as a scutum, used by Roman legionaries
Scutum. (mid-3rd century A.D.). Yale University Art Library, Item No. 1933.715. No copyright. Source: https://artgallery.yale.edu/collections/objects/5959

Galea (helmet)

The Galea was the Roman helmet and was designed to provide maximum protection to the head and neck.

 

It was made of metal and had a large visor that could be raised or lowered, providing the legionary with excellent visibility in battle.

 

The helmet also had cheek guards and a neck guard that provided additional protection.

Roman soldier with pilum spear
Source: https://pixabay.com/photos/soldier-roman-roman-soldier-1510730/

Lorica segmentata (body armour)

The Lorica Segmentata was the Roman armor and was made of overlapping iron plates.

 

It was one of the most effective types of armor used in the ancient world, providing excellent protection to the torso and shoulders.

 

The armor was designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing the legionary to move freely in battle.

Lorica segmentata
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