👉 The Roman weapon, particularly the gladius, was a versatile and iconic short sword designed for close combat. It featured a distinctive leaf-shaped blade, optimized for thrusting and slashing movements in tight formations. The gladius was typically about 18 to 22 inches long, making it easy to handle and conceal, while its short but broad blade provided both cutting and piercing capabilities. Its design allowed Roman legionaries to fight effectively in the dense, chaotic environments of battle, making it a staple of Roman military warfare.
