600lb Medieval Crossbow VS 165lb English Warbow

Published on June 5, 2024
Duration: 30:14

This comparison between a 600lb medieval crossbow and a 165lb English Warbow reveals surprising similarities in projectile velocity (150-167 FPS vs. 140-166 FPS) despite vast differences in draw weight and cocking mechanisms. The crossbow's ease of use and ability to be kept cocked offer tactical advantages, while the warbow demands significant physical prowess and training. Neither weapon consistently penetrated full plate armor, though the warbow's heavy arrows showed significant impact.

Quick Summary

A 600lb medieval crossbow and a 165lb English Warbow achieved similar projectile velocities (150-167 FPS vs. 140-166 FPS). The crossbow offers superior ease of use and readiness, while the warbow requires extensive training. Neither consistently penetrated full plate armor at range.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: 600lb Crossbow vs English Warbow
  2. 01:14Mechanical Advantage & Cocking
  3. 02:15Historical Tactics: The Pavise
  4. 04:43English Warbow Introduction
  5. 05:13Chronograph Velocity Testing
  6. 06:16Novice Ease of Use Test
  7. 08:19Combat Readiness & Armor
  8. 11:40Armor Penetration Test
  9. 14:41Distance & Reliability Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the velocity of a 600lb medieval crossbow compare to a 165lb English Warbow?

Surprisingly, the velocities are quite similar. The 600lb crossbow averaged between 152-167 FPS, while the 165lb warbow averaged 143-166 FPS. This indicates that draw weight alone doesn't dictate projectile speed; other factors like power stroke and efficiency are crucial.

What are the key advantages of a medieval crossbow over a warbow?

The crossbow's primary advantages are its ease of use and rapid readiness. It requires minimal training to operate effectively and can be kept cocked, allowing for instant reaction. This contrasts with the warbow, which demands significant physical strength and years of dedicated practice.

Can a medieval crossbow or warbow penetrate full plate armor?

During testing against brigandine and steel helmets, neither weapon consistently achieved a clean kill through the main armor plates at range. However, the warbow's heavy arrows with bodkin tips showed significant impact force, potentially causing blunt trauma or finding gaps.

What historical tactics were used to compensate for the crossbow's slow reloading time?

Crossbowmen historically employed large Pavise shields for cover while reloading. They often operated in fire teams, where some soldiers provided cover and others reloaded or fired, maintaining a continuous rate of fire despite the mechanical cocking process.

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