12-29-2014, 03:11 PM
Quote:But then how would you explain the differences in the blades ( I mean like the midrib and cross section, not shape )? Also, look at what Crispus posted about the pugio.
The midrid wouldn't be necessary for a longer blade as extreme stiffness isn't wanted in a cut and thrust sword, its still needs flexibility. Meanwhile, the pugio hilt and tang design are only slightly different, with more elaborate worked into the tang. Though not always:
[img width=250]http://www.artemission.com/pics/a411/201114ae0.jpg[/img]
Look at the above pugio blade, just the tang and blade design, and tell me they don't appear to be miniature Mainz swords.
[img width=250]http://www.albion-swords.com/images/bareblades/mainz-1.JPG[/img]
Since the pugio came first, from Spain, my guess is that an inquisitive sword maker created a new sword type, a purely infantry version, by copying the then popular "spanish daggers", lengthening the blades, removing the midrib, creating a different pommel design (to facilitate slashing and holding onto blade).
Just my latest pet theory.
