3rd century belt

[John Conyard]

I remade my 3rd century impression last summer, making new belts and baldrics.

I used James' Dura report more than the bog finds. While some finds may have been of an Eastern nature, generally the finds from Dura are Roman. Finds from the bogs may show some "strange" influences, and often have two studs found with Roman style sword hilts. These are not found at Dura.

James would give you the diameters of the ring belt fasteners. Generally opt for a small one for everyday wear. But a second larger fastener is useful when putting the belt over padding and armour. That way the same waist belt can be used in all situations. Larger rings just increase the size of the belt. I used bone to make the small fasteners, but opted for copper alloy for the larger rings due to their strength.

James suggest the officers were wearing red dyed or painted belts. Everybody else used waxed or oiled leather. If you are using folded goat leather it may ned to be edged with sewing. Good quality cow hide shouldn't need it. But decorative tooling or stiching could look good.

James' report gives a whole range of baldric fittings, some of which were very simple. I also like the decorations which could be applied to the baldric. I think it is the decorations which can persoanlise your belt.

It took me a while to get the baldric to hang correctly. The "stud" should be at the same level as the sword hilt, while the end plate should be around the scabbard slide. At fist this seems too low. But it allows for the decorations to sit at chest height.

I allowed myself a little interpretation when tying the scabbard to the baldric. I used two small bone strap ends on the thin baldric straps, which hang down beside the scabbard. I copied these from Dura finds.

Needless to say I would love to visit Dura before I die.