Ancient Greek Dory DIY Set: Mild Steel Spearhead and Brass Sauroter
Imagine, warrior, standing in an impenetrable phalanx, shield to shield, gripping the symbol of a Greek hoplite's might – the dory. This spearhead and butt spike set allows you to assemble your own authentic spear, the backbone of the armies of ancient Greece. With this kit, you become a true citizen-soldier ready to defend your polis. You are not just getting functional gear for re-enactment, but a piece of history that you can customise to your preferred length and wood type. Create a weapon that defined ancient warfare tactics and feel the strength of ancient heroes in your hands. We recommend this set to complete your authentic ancient warrior kit. Further product information ...
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Ancient Greek Dory DIY Set: Mild Steel Spearhead and Brass Sauroter
Assembly and Practical Use
This set is designed for creative re-enactors and history enthusiasts as a DIY project. It consists of a leaf-shaped spearhead made of mild steel and a solid butt spike, known as a sauroter, cast from brass. Both components feature a socket for mounting onto a wooden shaft with a diameter of approximately 22 mm / 0.86".
- Installation: Choose a suitable wooden shaft with a length of 2 to 3 metres / 6.5 to 10 ft. Carefully taper the ends of the wood into a cone shape so they fit tightly into the sockets.
- Securing: The sockets come with pre-drilled holes for fixation using nails or screws, which are not included in the delivery.
- Balancing: The brass sauroter is intentionally heavier than the head to act as a counterweight, making it easier to handle the long spear with one hand behind a shield.
Technical Specifications
| Component | Parameter | Metric Value | Imperial Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spearhead | Material | Mild Steel | Mild Steel |
| Spearhead | Total Length | approx. 28 cm | approx. 11" |
| Spearhead | Blade Length | approx. 22 cm | approx. 8.7" |
| Spearhead | Socket Inner Diameter | approx. 2.2 cm | approx. 0.86" |
| Spearhead | Weight | approx. 260 g | approx. 9.2 oz |
| Sauroter (Butt Spike) | Material | Cast Brass | Cast Brass |
| Sauroter (Butt Spike) | Total Length | approx. 27 cm | approx. 10.6" |
| Sauroter (Butt Spike) | Socket Inner Diameter | approx. 2.2 cm | approx. 0.86" |
| Sauroter (Butt Spike) | Weight | approx. 460 g | approx. 16.2 oz |
Historical Insight: The Sauroter or Lizard Killer
The dory was the primary weapon of Greek hoplites from the 5th to the 2nd century BC. While the head served for primary thrusts, the butt spike – the sauroter (literally lizard killer) – had several functions. It protected the bottom of the shaft from rotting, allowed the spear to be stuck upright in the ground during rest, and served as a lethal backup weapon. If the shaft snapped in the heat of battle, the hoplite would simply flip the spear and continue fighting with the sharp brass spike. Interestingly, the sauroter allowed soldiers in the rear ranks of the phalanx to finish off fallen enemies on the ground without breaking formation.
Maintenance and Safety Warnings
To keep your spear looking its best, wipe the steel head with a dry cloth after each use and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust. You can polish the brass sauroter with a metal cleaner if it tarnishes. Please note that these are decorative replicas intended for collections or re-enactment. The spearhead has blunt edges, but the sauroter ends in a sharp point. Never aim the spear at people or animals. This product is not intended for full-contact combat like buhurt. We recommend completing your kit with a Greek Aspis shield and a Corinthian helmet.
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