Gladius Swords
Custom engraved wooden gladius (rudis) swords, handmade in Idaho from cherry and walnut. Personalize the blade with a name, rank, unit, emblem or dates for a retirement, promotion or award – from $95 with free US shipping.
The Roman tradition behind the rudis
In the Roman arena a gladiator who earned his freedom was presented with a rudis – a wooden gladius that meant his service was complete. That is exactly what these swords are for today: recognizing someone whose duty is done or whose achievement deserves more than a plaque. Our gladius swords are given at military retirements, changes of command, police and fire academy graduations, tournament podiums and Eagle Scout courts of honor.
How each gladius is made
Every sword starts as a cherry wood blade, 29 inches long, fitted with a walnut pommel and cross guard and a genuine leather-wrapped grip. We laser-engrave your design into the wood – the American flag, the banner eagle, the thin blue line, or artwork you send us – then add the personal text: name, rank, unit, dates of service, a motto or a verse. The back of the blade, the pommel and the cross guard can be engraved too. A 3D-printed stand is available so the sword can be displayed on a desk or mantel instead of the wall.
Ordering one or a set
Single swords ship free in the US and take about one to two weeks to make. Departments, units, dojos and troops that need a matched set can request a bulk quote – we engrave the same emblem on every blade and a different name on each one.