Late Roman Cataphracts, 28 mm Scale Model Plastic Figures

The first regiments of Cataphractarii were introduced into the Roman army by Emperor Trajan in the early 2nd century. A significant expansion of these regiments occurred during the reign of Emperor Constantius II in the 4th century as Rome faced increasing conflicts with the Sassanid Persian Empire, which relied heavily on Cataphracts and the similar Clibanarii.

In battle, Cataphracts advanced at a steady trot rather than a charge, as their substantial weight could quickly exhaust the horse. This measured pace maintained the cohesion of their line, maximizing the impact of their primary weapon, the long kontos (lance). In combat, they would joust or fence with the kontos, transitioning to swords or axes when the lance broke. Historical accounts even describe kontos strikes as powerful enough to decapitate with a single thrust or slash. Infantry greatly feared the Cataphract’s charge, often forming dense defensive formations to resist their onslaught.

This model set features figures equipped with either upright or leveled kontos lances, along with a variety of head options for customization. The horses, depicted in dynamic trotting poses, are adorned with detailed scale armor and come with multiple head variants. Together, these components create a visually striking and varied regiment of Cataphracts, perfect for instilling fear in any adversary.