09-11-2009, 02:17 PM
The Pilum throw.
I have always found this an interesting topic however we have have to consider as to when exactly the pilum was thrown, It has been my opinion that the soldier who instigated the throw was the Primus Pilus as his name implies { first spear }
With the soldiers drawn up in battle order they would have been two meters apart and the rank behind would have been like wise but offset by a meter so that two ranks can throw at the same time. The troops would not face the enemy but would look to their right and watch the PP for he would decide when to throw, this way all of the two ranks would throw at the same time creating the shock tactic of massive Pilum Volley into the on coming enemy.
Then the rear rank steps forward to lock their shields with the front rank making the shield wall and then let the carnage begin.
I have always found this an interesting topic however we have have to consider as to when exactly the pilum was thrown, It has been my opinion that the soldier who instigated the throw was the Primus Pilus as his name implies { first spear }
With the soldiers drawn up in battle order they would have been two meters apart and the rank behind would have been like wise but offset by a meter so that two ranks can throw at the same time. The troops would not face the enemy but would look to their right and watch the PP for he would decide when to throw, this way all of the two ranks would throw at the same time creating the shock tactic of massive Pilum Volley into the on coming enemy.
Then the rear rank steps forward to lock their shields with the front rank making the shield wall and then let the carnage begin.
Brian Stobbs
