Norman crossbowmen were a significant military force during the 11th and 12th centuries, particularly noted for their role in the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Equipped with crossbows, a powerful ranged weapon, these soldiers could deliver devastating volleys that could penetrate armor. They often wore padded gambesons or chainmail for protection and carried small shields. Crossbowmen were used to support infantry and cavalry, providing suppressive fire and targeting enemy knights and infantry from a distance. Their presence on the battlefield added a critical ranged component to Norman tactics, contributing to their military successes during this period.
A powerful weapon comparable to a longbow, the Norman crossbowmen line up to bring their enemies down in a hail of bolts.
Compared to the iconic longbow the crossbow can reproduce similar results, however, the beauty of the crossbow is the simplicity, nearly anyone could wield it as long as they had the strength and a small amount of training.
