01-28-2006, 11:47 PM
Quote:In fact, even though vegetius and Maurikios prescribe their use not only in a pitched batlle but also with reconnaissance or with defending the siege train, how come that so far no plumbatae turned up in the Middle East or Norh Africa?
Really? That's interesting... as I read more and more of Vegetius, and especially Maurikios, I was amazed at how many times plumbata were mentioned. I initially considered them an odd weapon, a one-off with limited appeal. Having them mentioned as battlefield regulars in 400AD and the late-500s, almost two centuries later, is amazing. This was a real weapon, used often and obviously with great effect. To me, it marks the Late Romans out as the fransisca marks out the Franks.
And yes, underarm gives great ranges! One of our members boasts a 90m range with a plumbata!
~ Paul Elliott
The Last Legionary
This book details the lives of Late Roman legionaries garrisoned in Britain in 400AD. It covers everything from battle to rations, camp duties to clothing.
The Last Legionary
This book details the lives of Late Roman legionaries garrisoned in Britain in 400AD. It covers everything from battle to rations, camp duties to clothing.