Longbow and crossbow

The contest between the longbow and the crossbow was a key feature of Edward's campaign in 1346 and was to have a major impact in the decades afterwards. The longbow had originated in Wales and the English had likely first encountered it in many campaigns in the Welsh mountains and valleys. It was made principally from the wood of the Yew tree which gave the relatively light bow strength and a high degree of flexibility to allow a powerful draw and extensive range. These longbowmen in Wales and in England were professionals not serfs. A modern re-enactor has confirmed to me that he can fire 13 arrows in a minute at a maximum range of 350 yards. At 100 yards he said that an experienced bowman could hit a specific target reliably. Provided…

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Medieval World Culture & Conflict (Digital) - 1 Issue, Issue 7 - 2023

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