Why Archers Didn't Volley Fire (acoup.blog)

Article summary

The article discusses the historical inaccuracy of depicting archers firing in volleys, as seen in movies and TV shows. In reality, archers did not fire in coordinated groups due to the physical demands of holding a bow at full draw and the lack of need for volley fire with bows. The article also explores the tactics of volley fire with firearms and crossbows, which were used to overcome slow reload times. The lethality of arrow barrages is also examined, with the conclusion that it was likely lower than often depicted in popular media.

Main themes

• historical accuracy
• archery tactics
• volley fire
• lethality of arrow barrages
• shielded infantry
• military history
• reenactment and research

What commenters say

• Some commenters argue that coordinated volley fire with bows is impractical due to the physical demands of holding a bow at full draw.
• Others suggest that archers could still achieve a coordinated volley by drawing and loosing their arrows in quick succession, without needing to hold the bow at full draw.
• The effectiveness of arrow volleys against shielded infantry is questioned, with some arguing that continuous fire would be more effective than volleys.
• The historical record and archaeological evidence are cited as proof that archers did not typically fire in volleys.
• Some commenters disagree with the article's conclusion, arguing that volley fire with bows is still a plausible tactic.
• The psychological impact of arrow fire on enemy troops is also discussed, with some arguing that continuous fire would be more demoralizing than volleys.
• The comparison between historical archers and modern reenactors or LARPers is made, with some arguing that the latter cannot accurately replicate the skills and physical conditioning of professional archers.