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One of the distinct advantages of Principate Legions over their non-Roman opponents was that they are able to cover their bodies against attacks easily with their large rectangular shields while being able to attack their opponents much easier using their short swords(their gladius).With the late Roman army however,infantrymen used spears,oval shields and much longer swords(the spatha). Were late Roman infantrymen actually disadvantaged compared to their predecessors in close quarter combat or did the changes actually increase their fighting ability in close quarter situations?

NOTE:I fully realize that overall,the late Roman army was actually better than the Principate one in terms of tactics,doctrine and equipment.
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