08-05-2008, 01:35 AM
You really should be able to dip the scutum down a little to cover the legs if you see a shot heading in that direction. After all, if you aren't watching your opponent's weapon, you're dead anyway!
It should also be noted that in the later middle ages, when knights fought fully armored on horseback, they typically discarded the sabatons (foot guards) when fighting dismounted. In the 16th century, "three-quarter" armor became common, covering the man fully from the knees up, but the lower legs and feet protected only by his boots. Mind you, this is all after shields were pretty much discarded by the upper classes! Seems the feet really weren't in that much danger. These were men who rode to battle and had plenty of money for whatever protection they wanted, and plenty of servants to take care of the stuff for them.
A legionary knows he's going to be marching a lot, very often. But it may be a long time before he's in a battle, and even then it's quite possible he'll stand around in the rear ranks, waiting to get close enough to chuck a pilum. Who needs greaves?
Valete,
Matthew
PS: Hey, Magnus, you forgot these Greek foot guards!
http://www.larp.com/hoplite/BMgr1.jpg
Obviously very rare things.
It should also be noted that in the later middle ages, when knights fought fully armored on horseback, they typically discarded the sabatons (foot guards) when fighting dismounted. In the 16th century, "three-quarter" armor became common, covering the man fully from the knees up, but the lower legs and feet protected only by his boots. Mind you, this is all after shields were pretty much discarded by the upper classes! Seems the feet really weren't in that much danger. These were men who rode to battle and had plenty of money for whatever protection they wanted, and plenty of servants to take care of the stuff for them.
A legionary knows he's going to be marching a lot, very often. But it may be a long time before he's in a battle, and even then it's quite possible he'll stand around in the rear ranks, waiting to get close enough to chuck a pilum. Who needs greaves?
Valete,
Matthew
PS: Hey, Magnus, you forgot these Greek foot guards!
http://www.larp.com/hoplite/BMgr1.jpg
Obviously very rare things.
Matthew Amt (Quintus)
Legio XX, USA
<a class="postlink" href="http://www.larp.com/legioxx/">http://www.larp.com/legioxx/
Legio XX, USA
<a class="postlink" href="http://www.larp.com/legioxx/">http://www.larp.com/legioxx/
