~ Medieval Weapons ~

-   Crossbows   -

Yet in spite of these benefits, the crossbow could only shoot two bolts per minute which was very slow as compared with the longbow which could shoot at least twelve arrows per minute. It is clear to see why those fighting on the dangerous battlefields of the Medieval period would prefer a weapon such as the longbow which was so superior for attacking on a larger scale.

Furthermore, the victories of the English longbowmen at the battles of Crécy and Agincourt, and the resulting political victories, led to the longbow being esteemed far above the crossbow. Once gunpowder had been introduced the crossbow fell almost completely out of use.


Crossbows - continued