Description
The term gladius was simply the Latin word for sword, but it became synonymous with the iconic weapon carried by Ancient Roman foot soldiers. This short, sturdy blade was designed for close-quarters combat, ideal for thrusting forward to pierce through enemy lines or breaking an opponent’s spear. The gladius was a trusted companion of Roman legionaries and gladiators alike, dominating the battlefield with its balance of reach and maneuverability.
This particular medieval-style gladius features a blade forged from a blend of 1095 and 15N20 Damascus steel. The steel has been folded and layered between 400 and 520 times, creating the distinctive wave-like patterns that not only please the eye but also enhance the blade’s strength and flexibility. The blade’s hardness ranges between 58 and 60 on the Rockwell scale, offering a fine balance of sharpness and durability. Measuring 18.75 inches in length with a thickness of 3.85 mm, the blade holds its edge well while remaining resilient under the stresses of battle.
The handle is crafted from stained rosewood, accented with steel inserts and fittings of pure brass, providing a solid grip and a touch of elegance. At 8.5 inches long, the handle offers excellent control during combat maneuvers. To protect this weapon when not in use, it comes with a hand-tooled genuine leather sheath, dyed a deep brown to complement the handle’s rich tones.
Specifications
Overall Length: 27.25 inches
Blade Length: 18.75 inches
Layers: 400-520
Hardness (HRC): 58-60
Steel: 1095/15N20 Damascus
Blade Thickness: 3.85 mm
Handle Length: 8.5 inches
Features
Damascus Steel Blade
Handle Material: Rosewood, Pure Brass, Steel
Hand-Tooled Genuine Leather Sheath Included
Fun Fact: The Roman gladius inspired sword designs for centuries after the fall of Rome, and modern Damascus steel blades like this one carry on the ancient tradition of folding steel to create weapons that are both strong and beautiful.
