How To.. wear the Pugio and Gladius (belts, fasteners)

[Peroni]

I have to wonder if the small buckle played some role along with the button and loop fastener in providing suspension.

Deschler-Erb proposed that the button and loop fastener might have acted in place of the buckle of the military belt and that the small buckle may have been the main fastening to attach the sword to the belt. You pay your money and you take your choice, as they say.

As there was only one button fastener found and not a pair I'm more inclined to agree with D-E's theory put forward for the use of the buckle which is extremely practical and secure. It also makes the pommel sit just at the armpit level as seen on so many reliefs...Like this..