Quote Originally Posted by Ludens
I don't have any experience either, but its curved point would make it less suitable for thrusting than a spear, and the long handle inhibits the ability for parrying and fast strikes because the wielders body would get in the way. You also don't get the momentum you would when you would swing it, hence it wouldn't be AP. That's why it's got a low attack value. Perhaps a bit too low, but the AP should compensate for that. A wider spacing would be more realistic, but do soldiers still obey the spacing rules when in combat? To my knowledge the engine does not give troops a penalty for being to close together.

I cannot answer the gaesatae question.
i would treat it as a 2-handed sword...