Used by Elysian infantrymen, the Aspis shield is a cheap, light-weight defensive measure which can be easily mass-produced, and withstand some rather respectable blows.

Physically speaking, the Aspis is a rounded concave disc 1m across in dimension. It straps onto the back of the off-arm in the style of ancient Greek hoplite shields, using three silk lacings to secure it in place with tine knots. The specific use of the Aspis is for personal protection rather than formation fighting, as reflected by the methods taught in ECN basic combat training. As for composition, the shield has a main body layered with two protective alloys: the main body is constructed of Ultrahard Fullerite, making it very lightweight but significantly stronger than diamond. Over this is a layer of Titanium carbide, also very lightweight, and an effective refractory material with a melting point of 3,170 degrees Celsius (5,738 F). The third and final layer of the shield is a very thin layer of Tantalum Carbide, an even more formidable refractory measure (melting point 3,880 C/7,016 F) that also provides an extremely durable outer shell. The overall weight of the shield is around 3 kilograms.

The construction of the shield makes it capable of withstanding both kinetic and energy attacks.

Roughly 1/3 of the rim of the shield is composed of sharpened ultrahard fullerite. This is on the edge facing away from the bearer, and the edge, though not monomolecular, is finely sharpened. Composed of Ultrahard Fullerite, it is capable of cutting through diamond with sufficient force - flesh and many lightweight infantry armors could be rent apart with notable ease when using it in such a manner. Notably, the weapon-edge of the Aspis is used for the factor of surprise, and as a last resort in a close fight, as it is relatively unwieldy for use as a melee weapon. When not in use, the bladed edge has a sheathe also made of rounded Ultrahard Fullerite.

In appearance, the Aspis is a very gently domed round shield with a dull luster and a dark grey hue. Patricians often request an Aspis with elaborate patterns, and sometimes with coats of arms, though this is costlier, and never included as a standard.

Orion created this article on 2006/11/30 14:49; Wes approved it on 2006/11/30 18:35.