Fibula?

[Crispvs]

Of course the Hoffheim strap junction was found, but that does not make it what it was not. It a genuine item, but like all others of its type it is a genuine piece of equine equipment.

The identification as an unnecessary addition to a sword baldric is a result of looking at objects outside their own context. Set in the context of others like it, its true function becomes clear.
As Jurjen said, these items are always decorated in a manner consistent with cavalry equipment decoration and where they are found with other items they are normally other harness mounts. As he also mentioned, there are a number of examples of these strap junctions being found still attached to harness phalerae. Their identification as strap junctions for horse harnesses is therefore very secure.

If you can find a single one which has been found in association with a sword we would all be very pleased to know about it.

The pilum is a subject for a separate thread but I would commend you to have a look at JRMES 12/13 (2001/2002) and Exercitus (Spring 2005).

Crispvs