The Pilum
A pilum was a javelin that was 2 meters long. It weighed 5 pounds or 2.5 kg. There was a light javelin also but this was the heavier one. This weapon was used for throwing and should not be thrusted for this reason. The iron head was not fully solid so when it struck something it could bend. This does not mean it could not do damage, but it did mean the opponent could not use it. And if the pilum was in the armor or shield it would be impossible to pull out. This was the key to the success of the pilum. If the carrier of the pilum had two pila then one could be used to pierce armor or take down cavalry then the other to throw. The max range is 30 meters but the most effective range is 20 meters because there would be more power and speed doing more damage. The pilum was the best long range roman weapon.