Byzantine cataphract outfit

[Urselius]

Byzantine heavy cavalrymen, by the Komnenian period did not usually employ bows. They were lancers, pretty much pure and simple. As secondary weapons they employed swords and maces. A description of the Battle of Sirmium in the middle of the 12th century says that after the lances were broken the Byzantine cavalry drew their swords, when these were blunted their maces were resorted to.

Earlier writings stated that kataphraktoi used two swords, a curved sabre, the paramerion and the straight spathion. Using two swords might be visually impressive.

Any shortfalls in accurate body armour could be disguised by having a quilted epilorikion made. This was a soft armour worn over the metal armor. A fancy one made of coloured silk, or silk-like synthetic material could look very arresting. Face covering mail would also look good.