quote:
Originally posted by Thoran:
Ranged weapons were an important component of the battlefield then as they are today, after all... all these standoff weapon systems we have today are just technologically enhanced ranged weapons.
However, their effectiveness could be mitigated by organized and disciplined troops. Shield formations (like the Romans utilized in the opening scene of Gladiator) could protect troops during their vulnerable movement to the skirmish line. Once engaged the soldier was close enough to the enemy to make bows ineffectual (unless the enemy chose to fire on his own troops... which certainly might have happened on occasion).
The turtle! Romans loved a front line with huge tower sheilds and short swords. The second rank was spears/pikes IIRC. Once again this weapon choice was mostly effective in massed formations.
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Master Barbsman and wielder of the razor wit!<br /><br />There are dark angels among us. They present themselves in shining raiment but there is, in their hearts, the blackness of the abyss.
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