Choosing an Unconventional Weapon for Gladiatorial Combat: The Case of Full Plate Armor
Choosing an Unconventional Weapon for Gladiatorial Combat: The Case of Full Plate Armor
Imagine being forced into gladiatorial combat, but the twist is that you can only choose a weapon that wouldn’t typically be considered a weapon. While the question at hand may seem straightforward, it quickly deepens into a complex scenario of strategy and survival. This article delves into the intricacies of choosing an unconventional weapon for such a scenario, focusing on the case of full plate armor as a non-combatant yet powerful weapon.
The Verdict: Full Plate Armor
The article begins with a humorous anecdote about choosing a big and heavy weapon, then quickly dismisses it as impractical. The author then opts for a carbine, but immediately expresses skepticism about its feasibility. The conclusion is clear: even without the strict selection of weapons typically considered conventional, the choice for full plate armor stands out as the most practical and effective solution.
Conceptualizing the Full Plate Armor
Traditional assessments of weaponry in gladiatorial combat often focus on the sharpness and strength of the blades or the lethality of loaded firearms. However, in a scenario where the objective is survival, there are other factors to consider. The key takeaway from the discussion is the idea of personal protection combined with strategic advantage. Full plate armor, despite not being a weapon in the conventional sense, offers several benefits. It serves as a formidable shield, enhancing the combatant's survivability, and can be used as a tool for bludgeoning or even disarming opponents.
The armor is described as giving an "enormous amount of protection against most weapons," making it an excellent alternative to a firearm or even a spear. Its main advantage lies in the fact that it is a guaranteed defense against unarmored individuals or weapons. While it does not provide magical immunity and can still be taken down, it significantly increases the chances of survival in an unpredictable combat situation. This modern take on personal protection has its roots in the historical use of such armor, which was indeed a symbol of power and protection.
Historical Echoes: Ancient Full Plate Armor
To put the concept into perspective, historical echoes of full plate armor are drawn upon. In ancient Rome, specific classes of gladiators were designated for certain types of combat, often with specialized weapons and armor. However, the choice of weapon was not always in the hands of the gladiator. This mirrors the modern scenario where choices might be limited, and the best strategy could be to focus on personal protection rather than offensive weapons. The author emphasizes:
"Really it would be whatever my ancient self would have the most skill and comfort using."
Full plate armor, with its ancient roots in war and protection, represents a blend of practicality and psychological advantage. The robust and heavy armor, whether worn by a knight or a gladiator, conveyed an imposing presence. It offered direct and immediate protection, a steadfast line of defense against countless forms of attack. The psychological impact of facing an opponent laden with such formidable armor was immense; it instilled fear and deterred potential adversaries.
Modern Benefits and Practicality
But full plate armor isn't just a relic of the past. In a modern context, it serves as a model for contemporary personal protection. The Girandoni AIR rifle, mentioned in the discussion, is a unique example of a non-firing weapon that could serve as a deterrent or a tool for self-defense. Such modern applications highlight the enduring relevance of full plate armor in ensuring personal safety. The author humorously suggests an air rifle, emphasizing that it does not rely on any skill other than aim, making it an accessible and practical choice.
Adding a kite shield to the mix would dramatically increase the chances of success. However, this would likely not be allowed due to the strict interpretation of what constitutes a "non-conventional weapon." Despite this limitation, even without the shield, full plate armor offers a substantial advantage. It is not a weapon in the strict sense, but its protection and the psychological deterrent it provides make it a formidable tool of survival in any combat scenario.
In conclusion, the choice of full plate armor as a non-conventional weapon is a pragmatic and historically informed decision. It balances between the need for physical protection and the practicality of modern constraints. Whether in ancient Rome or in a modern gladiatorial combat scenario, full plate armor stands out as a reliable and effective option for ensuring survival.