Ryan Lellis' Albion Augustus - Mainz Gladius II

Elegant Curves - Ryan M. Lellis' Main Hand

My first addition to the stash was the Albion Augustus. This is a classic Roman sword that I like to think of as the AK-47 of its day. I chose this over other similar blades due to its gentle waisted profile. Other gladii have straighter blades and sharper angles that begin the taper. Eventually I will acquire a scabbard with an SPQR inlay.

The Augustus has special meaning to me in that its history links both sides of my family. My last name apparently has Italian origins, despite the family claim that it's Greek, and the sword is a modified version of the Falcata from the Iberian Peninsula where my mother's side is from. The Romans shortened the blade length, kept the widening profile, and tapered the tip to a more discrete point in order to keep good cutting qualities of the Falcata, but also serve as a more effective thruster. Our similar origins make for a perfect match.

The hilt is made from walnut. It fits my hand pretty well and the shape helps with blade alignment. The large pommel helps keep it safe in your hand. My wife calls it the pepper-grinder sword, I can't help but agree that it looks like one. I have cut a few tatami mats with this blade. I am no master, but it cut much better than I had expected... like butter.

Check out Albion swords at https://www.albion-swords.com/
They have amazing quality products.

Next up: my Albion Munich