The Praetorian Roman Gladius: Our "Praetorian" is named in honor of the Praetorian guard that was created in 27 BC by the Roman Emperor Augustus. It is a Mainz style Roman Gladius sword. This type first appeared shortly after Mainz was founded as the Roman permanent camp of Moguntiacum in 13 BC by the Roman general Drusus. The swords made at Mainz were generally sold to the people of the lands to the north of Mainz. They are characterized by a slight waist running the length of the blade and a long point. The Praetorian features a sharp, hand hammer forged 19 and 3/4 inch leaf shape blade. The handle is alternating brass and macassar ebony hardwood. (Scabbard Included) Overall Length: 28.00" Blade Length: 19.75" Handle Length: 4.00" Handle Material: Macassar Ebony & Brass Cross Guard: 3.50" Blade Material: Hand hammer forged carbon steel Weight: 2 lbs. 10 oz.