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It also has been suggested that segmentata cost more to produce than mail, and I have yet to see anything to counter that.
M. CVRIVS ALEXANDER
(Alexander Kyrychenko)
LEG XI CPF
quando omni flunkus, mortati
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While the initial expense of mail might be greater than that of a segmentata, it was probably a longer-term investment. Well-maintained mail will last for generations. Much of the mail in use in the time of Augustus was probably in use in the time of Marius. The thin sheet metal used in segmentata probably lacked such longevity.
Pecunia non olet
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I agree with John. Extant segmentata fittings are so flimsy that most re-enactors don't attempt to replicate them. Mail might cost more to produce than segmentata but it has many advantages that the state would like. Such as longevity, reduced maintenance, less need for multiple sizes, etc.
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Yes, that I would agree with! But still, the protective qualities of the seg are quite confidence inspiring, especially if made to the lighter specs of the original.
Visne partem mei capere? Comminus agamus! * Me semper rogo, Quid faceret Iulius Caesar? * Confidence is a good thing! Overconfidence is too much of a good thing.
[b]Legio XIIII GMV. (Q. Magivs)RMRS Remember Atuatuca! Vengence will be ours!
Titus Flavius Germanus
Batavian Coh I
Byron Angel