Medieval Crossbowmen vs Archers: Which Ranged Unit to Field?
By Victrix Limited 28mm miniatures | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Comparisons
Deciding between 28mm medieval crossbowmen and archers for your wargaming army? We compare the two missile troop types to help you choose the right ranged unit for your tabletop strategy.
Quick answer
For raw stopping power and armor penetration on the medieval tabletop, field crossbowmen. For volume of fire and flexibility, archers are your pick. The Victrix 30-figure set gives you both, so you can tailor your force to your preferred playstyle.
Why the choice matters for your 28mm army
In 28mm wargaming, missile troops shape how you approach the battle. Crossbowmen deliver a punch that can threaten armored knights and sergeants at close to medium range, while archers provide a higher rate of fire and can harass lighter targets from a distance. The decision often comes down to the composition of your opponent's force and your own tactical doctrine.
What the Victrix set offers
The Medieval Crossbowmen & Archers set from Victrix Limited gives you 30 figures: 20 crossbowmen and 10 archers. This split lets you field a primary missile block with crossbows and a smaller skirmish or support unit with bows, or vice versa. With numerous arm and head options, you can customize each figure to avoid a uniform look across your 28mm medieval ranged units.
Crossbowmen vs Archers: Trade-offs at a glance
- Crossbowmen: Higher armor penetration and damage per hit, but slower reload and shorter effective range compared to bows. Best used to threaten enemy heavy infantry and cavalry. Deploy crossbowmen where you need to break through armored lines or deter mounted charges.
- Archers: Faster rate of fire and longer range, but less individual stopping power against well-armored targets. Ideal for softening up light infantry or forcing enemy units to advance under arrow fire. Use archers to control the battlefield tempo and weaken formations before they reach your lines.
- Mixed force: Fielding both types lets you cover each other's weaknesses: crossbowmen handle hard targets while archers provide volume and screening. The Victrix set's 20:10 ratio supports this hybrid approach. A mixed missile contingent gives you tactical flexibility but requires careful positioning to maximize each unit's strengths.
Product facts
- Medieval Crossbowmen & Archers: 30 figure set with 20 crossbowmen and 10 archers, plus numerous arm and head options. You get both troop types in one box, allowing you to build a balanced missile contingent or lean heavily into one type without buying separate kits.
Medieval Crossbowmen & Archers
Which missile troop fits your army?
Best for
- Players who face many armored opponents and want a reliable way to neutralize them
- Commanders who prefer a deliberate, punch-heavy shooting phase
Not for
- Players who rely on volume of fire to disrupt enemy formations
- Armies that need a long-range harassment option to cover advancing infantry
