The Pugio

The pugio is worn on the left side of the balteus and is a very stylized dagger. Many cheap replicas are available today, but none of those that I have found correctly copy the proper blade shape, materials, and proper weight of this weapon. I saved my money and bought a custom made, historically accurate replica from Godfrey Knight in the United Kingdom for $365 US. This replica was expensive as far as daggers go, but it is also the most perfectly made pugio replica I have ever seen and is truly a work of art. The pugio handle is made with layers of wood and bronze or bone on either side of the tang, which is shaped to the profile of the handle and pommel. The blade is characterized by a raised center ridge not found on modern blades. The shape of the pugio varies in width and length, but the overall leaf shape is the most common shape for the pugio. The wood sheath is fitted with etched brass fittings and covered in leather.