A modern reconstruction of the vallus
Below is a photo of a reconstructed vallus built by experimental archaeologist Peter Reynolds at Buster Ancient Farm in England.
I think the cutting deck is too high to be effective. I'm not sure why he built it in this fashion when the evidence (and practical experience from two centuries of reaping machines) suggest it to be lower? I will know more about his reasoning for constructing it in such a fashion after I read his article: Reconstruction of the Vallus-the Celtic Reaping Machine." Bulletin of Experimental Archaeology 3 (1983).
I think the cutting deck is too high to be effective. I'm not sure why he built it in this fashion when the evidence (and practical experience from two centuries of reaping machines) suggest it to be lower? I will know more about his reasoning for constructing it in such a fashion after I read his article: Reconstruction of the Vallus-the Celtic Reaping Machine." Bulletin of Experimental Archaeology 3 (1983).
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