[whythre]

Henry the 3rd’s decree about practicing archery drills regularly across the peasant population really worked out well for the English during the 100 Years War- they were able to field high numbers of dangerous and skilled ranged warriors and allowed for the massive victories like Crécy and (of course) Agincourt.

[scott_w]

Yes but we should be careful with the word “drill” as I’m not sure how much formal and coordinated training occurred vs just being told to go to the archery range before or after work every day. A quick search didn’t tell me the details.

Not that I think you’re claiming this, but the Assize of Arms 1252 certainly didn’t mean archers were training in volley fire.

[whythre]

I believe it was legal obligation on the weekends- so in that way it was semi formalized. I think the results of the English bowmen speak for themselves, but I don’t think volley fire was necessary or present on the battlefields of the 100 years war.