Also a small round sheild used by the Romans. Twenty to twenty-four inches in diameter, weighing about seven pounds.
The parma equestris was used by Roman cavalry units, the parma was also used by standardbearers and musicians, instead of a scutum, because their standards and instruments required the use of both hands. In their case the parma was an emergency self-defense shield which was carried strapped to their back.
see also:
shield
scutum
clipeus
casca
pavise