Weapons and armour were often provided from state factories. The commonality of arms and armour suggests that infantry and cavalry looked very similar. Streamlining of production and assembly line manufacturing probably encouraged the uniformity between cavalry and infantry. There were still many differences in overall appearance because of the various models of helmets, armour, weapons and accoutrements produced in the factories and by more traditional cottage industries. Generally all troops were equipped with sword, shield, helmet, body armour, shafted weapons (for throwing and/or thrusting) and uniforms. The troops were given some leeway in their equipment and clothing, although it is likely that some uniformity in weapons and dress was imposed so those units were distinct. This may have been as minimal as a standard shield pattern (for identification) and basic weapons (sword plus assorted spear-like weapons).

Spatha was the standard sword for all troops. It replaced the infantry gladius (short stabbing sword) and had been the standard cavalry sword of the early empire. There are references to semi-spatha, which suggests that a weapon similar to the traditional short sword was used by some troops.

Pilum or spiculum was the standard "heavy throwing" weapon, which had been used for centuries by Roman infantry. Spiculum was an alternate name, which may have been a distinct weapon or not.

Lancae or verutum was a spear like weapon that could be either thrown or thrust.

Plumbatum or martiobarbuli was probably a dart thrown either under-hand or over-hand by some infantry. Modern studies suggest that its maximum range was about 70 metres. It may have supplemented or replaced bows in some units, or supplemented other shafted weapons (spiculum and verutum).

More Late Roman Army

Late Roman Army: Introduction
Late Roman Army: Weapons
Late Roman Army: Personal Organization
Late Roman Army: Bibliography
Late Roman Army: Sources and Terminology
Late Roman Army: Military Organization
Late Roman Army: Unit Sizes and Types
Late Roman Army: A Model Army
Late Roman Army: Painting Tips
Late Roman Army: Bibliography