The Power of the English Longbow: Unveiling the Pull Weight

The English longbow is one of the most significant weapons in the history of medieval warfare. Its strength and range were so formidable that it played a pivotal role in numerous battles, most notably the Battle of Agincourt. Understanding the pull weight that these archers had to exert provides insight into their training and the character of this formidable weapon.

Historical Draw Weights of the English Longbow

During the medieval period, the typical pull weight of an English longbow ranged from approximately 100 to 180 pounds (45-82 kg). The majority of these bows fell within a narrower range of 120 to 150 pounds (54-68 kg). This weight refers to the force required to pull the bowstring back to its full draw length. Particularly powerful longbows, often used by skilled archers in key battles like Agincourt, could even exceed 180 pounds (82 kg).

One of the key factors contributing to the longbow's effectiveness was the material and design. The bows were meticulously crafted to maximize power and range. This craftsmanship enabled archers to hit targets with deadly accuracy at considerable distances.

The Reassessment of Historical Draw Weights

Before the maritime discovery of the Mary Rose, a Tudor warship, early estimates of the draw weight of English medieval bows ranged from 80 to 100 pounds. This changed with the analysis of the well-preserved bows found within the Mary Rose. Emerging evidence from these precisely studied artifacts suggests that the draw weights clustered at either just over 100 pounds or just above 140 pounds.

The Mary Rose artifacts provide valuable insights, although one must consider their limitations. These bows were a specific batch on a single ship, immersed in sea water for hundreds of years. Nevertheless, these findings offer a more accurate understanding of the range of draw weights used during the period.

Modern Insights into Arrow-Bow Compatibility

A crucial factor in the effectiveness of the English longbow was the weight of the arrows it shot. While arrows found on the Mary Rose were slightly heavier and more robust, a modern study indicated that a combination of lighter, more graceful arrows and a medium to heavy longbow could achieve optimal performance. Most archers could successfully use such a setup, indicating the versatility and adaptability of these weapons.

Comparative Modern Draw Weights

For context, a modern longbow typically has a draw weight of 60 pounds or less, while hunting bows usually range between 50 to 60 pounds. These lower weights are sufficient for most hunting purposes and are within the capabilities of reasonably fit adults with practice.

Archery Training and Performance in the 16th Century

Estimates from the 16th century provide further evidence of the principles surrounding longbow training. Writing a quarter century after the Mary Rose sank in 1545, Barnabe Rich noted that if a thousand English archers were mobilized, only one hundred would be able to shoot more than two hundred paces, and two hundred others would be capable of shooting more than 180 paces. Rich was a prolific military writer during the Elizabethan and early Jacobean periods, and his writings reflect the prevailing attitudes towards archery training and its impact on battle readiness.

Rich observed that soldiers could indeed be trained within a month, but the effectiveness of their shooting would depend on the training and practice. This underscores the importance of training and practice in achieving the full potential of the longbow as a weapon.

In conclusion, the pull weight of the English longbow was at least 100 pounds, with many examples exceeding 140 pounds. Understanding this weight range helps us appreciate the training, skill, and dedication required to wield these powerful weapons. The insights from both historical and modern studies provide a comprehensive view of the longbow's true power and its significance in medieval warfare.