Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - 1 Samuel 17:7
7. staff of his spear—rather under five feet long, and capable of being used as a javelin ( :-). It had an iron head. one bearing a shield—In consequence of their great size and weight, the Oriental warrior had a trusty and skilful friend, whose office it was to bear the large shield behind which he avoided the missile weapons of the enemy. He was covered, cap-a-pie, with defensive armor, while he had only two offensive weapons—a sword by his side and a spear in his hand. read more
Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - 1 Samuel 17:6
6. greaves of brass—boots, terminating at the ankle, made in one plate of metal, but round to the shape of the leg, and often lined with felt or sponge. They were useful in guarding the legs, not only against the spikes of the enemy, but in making way among thorns and briers. a target of brass—a circular frame, carried at the back, suspended by a long belt which crossed the breast from the shoulders to the loins. read more