Pilum (Roman Heavy Throwing Spear)
Projectile / Polearm weapon
Quick Facts
OriginRoman Empire (Legions) (Antiquity (4th c. BC - 3rd c. AD))
Wield TypeSingle-handed throw / Double
MaterialWooden shaft with long soft-iron shank and pyramidal tip
Length180 - 210 cm cm
Weight1.2 - 2.0 kg kg
History
Genius throwing weapon of the Roman legionnaire. The long soft-iron shank bent upon impacting a shield, rendering the shield unusable and preventing enemy reuse.
About
Launched in mass volleys at 15-25 meters just before charge. The bent iron shank forced the enemy to discard their heavy shield prior to Gladius melee.