08-21-2009, 04:31 AM
I'm new to this thread, but noticed the discussion on the vertical javelins and horizontal hand grasp of the shield. I always thought that most shields had a vertical hand-hold, which to me makes sense. A horizontal grasp would be asking for trouble: an enemy coming at you could kick low on your shield, and you get slammed in the shins by your own shield. If the attacker slams hard on the upper part of your (horizontal-held) shield, you get smacked in the face by the shield's rim, probably a broken nose. The horizontal hold is not ergonomic nor does it seem to make sense. You cannot control your shield unless you tip it sideways... until the hand-hold is finally vertical. :roll:
Alan J. Campbell
member of Legio III Cyrenaica and the Uncouth Barbarians
Author of:
The Demon's Door Bolt (2011)
Forging the Blade (2012)
"It's good to be king. Even when you're dead!"
Old Yuezhi/Pazyrk proverb
member of Legio III Cyrenaica and the Uncouth Barbarians
Author of:
The Demon's Door Bolt (2011)
Forging the Blade (2012)
"It's good to be king. Even when you're dead!"
Old Yuezhi/Pazyrk proverb
