Saxons employed slingers in their armies as light infantry skirmishers during the early medieval period. These slingers were typically drawn from the ranks of free men, known as ceorls, who used simple but effective sling weapons to hurl stones or lead projectiles at the enemy. Their role on the battlefield was to disrupt and harass opposing forces from a distance, targeting enemy formations, and inflicting damage before the main engagement.
Slingers provided valuable support to the heavier-armed infantry and cavalry by softening enemy lines and creating confusion. Their mobility and the range of their slings allowed them to stay out of reach of enemy melee troops, while still delivering effective volleys. Although not heavily armored, Saxon slingers were a crucial component of the army, offering flexibility and the ability to adapt to various tactical situations.
The use of slingers complemented the Saxon military strategy, which relied on a mix of lightly armed skirmishers and heavily armed infantry, forming a balanced and versatile fighting force capable of responding to the diverse threats of the early medieval battlefield.
Keep up a consistent barrage of fire. Slingers may fall short compared to arrows for their deadliness, but the ease of use and training, access to ammo and efficient nature all a non-stop volley of deadly projectiles.
