In ancient times broad dirks were a symbol of power and wealth, and only a chief or hero would have had such a weapon on his belt.

Iron blades like this were being made by people we call Celts some 2500 years ago.

This short bladed design originated in the Mediterranean toward the end of the Bronze Age.

Historically: Called the Spatha by the Imperial Romans and used by their own cavalry "The Equites" during their invasion of Britain in 43AD. By 236AD the armies of Rome were becoming stretched across their massive frontiers and at this time...

First encountered, literally at the sharp end, by Roman Legions warring in Spain, this Gladius Hispanicus was soon adopted by all their legions.

This dirk has been part of legionary equipment for hundreds of years, as it was the ideal shape and there was no need for it to be changed.