longbow-archer The typical longbowman, whether Welsh or, later, English, was equipped in much the same way. He wore little to no armor and carried—in addition to the 6-foot bow depicted here at full draw–extra shafts, as well as a short sword and small circular shield for self-defense. (Illustration by Peter Dennis, from Longbowman versus Crossbowman: Hundred Years’ War 1337-60 by David Campbell, Osprey Publishing) Illustration by Peter Dennis, from Longbowman versus Crossbowman: Hundred Years’ War 1337-60 by David Campbell, Osprey Publishing