each hoplite provided his own equipment. the primary hoplite weapon was a spear around in length called a "dory". although accounts of its length vary, it is usually now believed to have been seven to nine feet long (~2.1–2.7 m). it was held one-handed, with the other hand holding the hoplite's shield (aspis). the spearhead was usually a curved leaf shape, while the rear of the spear had a spike called a "sauroter" ('lizard-killer') which was used to stand the spear in the ground (hence the name). it was also used as a secondary weapon if the main shaft snapped or to kill enemies lying on the ground. this was a common problem, especially for soldiers who were involved in the initial clash with the enemy. despite the snapping of the spear, hoplites could easily switch to the sauroter without great consequence. the rear ranks used the secondary end to finish off fallen opponents as the phalanx advanced over them.