The article discusses the Roman pilum, a javelin crucial for disarming enemies by penetrating their shields. Both long and short versions existed, with the long pilum designed to bend upon impact, making removal difficult and forcing combatants to drop their shields. Roman soldiers were trained to throw these weapons strategically at overlapping shields to immobilize defenses. The ability to collect and refurbish pila after battles reflects the efficiency and industrial capacity of the Roman military, emphasizing the weapon's significance in securing victories throughout the Roman Republic and early Empire.
"Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." - Mike Tyson.
The pilum's long shanks would bend upon impact, making retrieval from shields impractical.
Roman soldiers were trained to throw pila at overlapping shields, pinning them together and rendering defense useless.
Pila could be gathered post-battle for refurbishment, showcasing quasi-industrial production supported by Roman military.
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