05-08-2011, 04:18 PM
Quote:He indeed speaks about the hasta, a Roman short spear, which is not much taller than the wielder of it. Also these soldiers he talks about use the clipeus or oval shield, which is narrower than the hoplite shield - when the spear is knocked off the line, this is more dangerous. His statements are more correct for these short spears, for example his remark about length which is lost when using an overhand grip. As far as I know there were no counterweights on this type of spear, so holding it in the middle would be necessary when using an overhand grip.The hasta was probably longer than thought of here. For one, even the pilum could reach 7-8 ft., and the hasta, being a thrusting spear, would not be smaller. besides, as with much Roman terminology, weapons changed shape over time. A Late Roman hasta, also called a contyus, could be 9 ft. or more, judging some images and descriptions.
Robert Vermaat
MODERATOR
FECTIO Late Romans
THE CAUSE OF WAR MUST BE JUST
(Maurikios-Strategikon, book VIII.2: Maxim 12)
MODERATOR
FECTIO Late Romans
THE CAUSE OF WAR MUST BE JUST
(Maurikios-Strategikon, book VIII.2: Maxim 12)
