Fact Check: medieval crossbows were more powerful than longbows

Medieval Crossbows vs. Longbows: Evaluating the Claim of Power

Introduction

The claim that "medieval crossbows were more powerful than longbows" suggests a significant distinction in the effectiveness of these two iconic weapons of medieval warfare. This assertion raises questions about the definitions of "power" and how it is measured in the context of weaponry. To explore this claim, we will analyze the characteristics of both crossbows and longbows, considering their historical usage, technical specifications, and the contexts in which they were employed.

What We Know

1. Power and Draw Weight: Crossbows typically have a higher draw weight than longbows, which can lead to greater projectile velocity. For instance, a heavy medieval crossbow could have a draw weight of around 800 to 1,000 pounds, while longbows generally ranged from 100 to 180 pounds 14. This higher draw weight allows crossbows to shoot bolts (projectiles) with significant force, potentially penetrating armor more effectively than arrows from longbows.

2. Rate of Fire: Longbows are known for their rapid rate of fire, with skilled archers capable of shooting 10 to 12 arrows per minute, while crossbowmen typically managed only 2 to 3 shots per minute due to the time required to re-cock the weapon 37. This difference in firing speed means that while a crossbow may have greater power per shot, longbows could deliver a higher volume of fire in a given timeframe.

3. Range and Accuracy: Longbows are often credited with superior range and accuracy. Historical battles like Crécy and Agincourt demonstrated the longbow's effectiveness at long distances, allowing archers to engage enemies before they could retaliate 25. Crossbows, while powerful, were generally more effective at shorter ranges and in direct engagements.

4. User Training and Accessibility: Longbows required extensive training to master, while crossbows were easier to use effectively, allowing untrained soldiers to wield them with some degree of proficiency 68. This accessibility made crossbows a popular choice for armies that needed to equip large numbers of troops quickly.

Analysis

The claim that crossbows are more powerful than longbows can be dissected through various lenses, including technical specifications, historical context, and tactical application.

• Technical Specifications: The assertion relies heavily on the draw weight and projectile velocity of crossbows compared to longbows. While it is true that crossbows can generate greater force due to their construction, the effectiveness of a weapon in battle is not solely determined by raw power. Factors such as range, rate of fire, and the skill of the user play crucial roles. The sources discussing these aspects vary in reliability; for example, 1 presents a straightforward comparison of draw weights, while 3 provides anecdotal evidence of firing rates from personal experience, which may lack broader applicability.

• Historical Context: Historical battles provide context for the effectiveness of both weapons. The longbow's role in English victories during the Hundred Years' War illustrates its strategic advantages in terms of range and volume of fire 2. Conversely, crossbows were often employed in siege warfare where their power and armor-piercing capabilities were more critical 5. The context in which each weapon was used can significantly influence perceptions of their power.

• Source Reliability: The sources used to support the claim vary in credibility. Academic articles and historical analyses (such as those from 2 and 5) tend to provide more reliable information than anecdotal or forum-based discussions (like 6 and 9). Additionally, some sources may have inherent biases, such as those promoting specific historical narratives or weaponry.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that medieval crossbows were more powerful than longbows is partially true, as it hinges on the technical specifications of draw weight and projectile velocity. Crossbows do indeed possess a higher draw weight, which can translate to greater force and potential armor penetration. However, this assertion overlooks critical factors such as the longbow's superior rate of fire, range, and historical effectiveness in various combat scenarios.

The context of weapon usage is essential; while crossbows may excel in specific situations, longbows have demonstrated significant advantages in others, particularly in open-field battles. The evidence supporting this claim is mixed, with some sources providing reliable data while others rely on anecdotal accounts that may not be universally applicable.

It is important to recognize the limitations in the available evidence and the nuances involved in comparing these two weapons. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the broader context when assessing claims about historical weaponry.

Sources

1. Crossbows vs. Longbows: A Close Look at These Two Bows. Complete Guide to Archery. Link
2. Crossbow vs. Longbow: The Defining Ranged Weapons of Medieval Warfare. History Tools. Link
3. The Crossbow vs the Longbow in the Medieval Period. The Beckoning. Link
4. Medieval Warbow vs Windlass Crossbow - Speed, Accuracy. YouTube. Link
5. The Longbow vs. The Crossbow: Game-Changers in Medieval Warfare. Lord of Battles. Link
6. Medieval crossbow VS longbow: which had a greater range? BoardGameGeek. Link
7. What Was the Difference Between the Crossbow and Longbow in Medieval Warfare? History Hit. Link
8. Advantages of Crossbows vs English Longbows. Historum. Link
9. Longbows vs. Crossbows. Total War Center. Link