Xiphos
| Xiphos | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Information | |
| Weapon type: | sword |
| Designations: | Xiphos |
| Use: | Military weapon |
| Region of origin / author: |
Greece |
| Distribution: | Greece |
| Overall length: | 70-75 cm |
| Blade length: | 60 cm |
| Material: | Iron, wood |
| Handle: | Wood / horn |
| Lists on the subject | |
The Xiphos ( Gr. Τό ξίφος) is a sword from ancient Greece . The cutting edge was about two feet long and a precursor of the Roman gladius . The Xiphos was the main weapon of Greek armies alongside the spear , especially the Xyston , and was used after the spear was thrown or lost. The straight, double-edged sword could be used as a cutting as well as a stabbing weapon.
description
The xiphos has a double-edged, leaf-shaped blade. The blade widens from the hilt towards the middle and narrows again towards the place . It has a central ridge that runs across the entire blade. The handle is made of wood or horn. The xiphos was used by Greek armies. The blade shape is very similar to the Gündlingen swords of the Hallstatt culture ( Hallstatt sword ).
literature
- George Cameron Stone , Donald J. LaRocca: A glossary of the construction, decoration and use of arms and armor in all countries and in all times. Together with some closely related subjects. Courier Dover Publications, Mineola NY 1999, ISBN 0-486-40726-8 , p. 670.
- Richard F. Burton : Book of the Sword. Chattoo and Windus, London 1884 ( scan version / full version , English).
