Roman arrows

[Virilis]

Yes, it is in Marcus Junkelmann`s book "Die Reiter Roms" teile III.

I am not very good with my german but in my opinion Junkelmann claims that "Sagittarii, Clibanarii and Cataphracts" used sassanider composite bows. The mongolian "thumb-release" technique was introduced quite late, perhaps from 5th century onwards. They also used to shoot from the right side of the bow! That is due to the fact that in this way it is easier to shoot more arrows in a shorter period of time, perhaps on horseback and the aiming was not so accurate, only the volleys of arrows....

There are also pictures of a late roman re-enactor spanning a composite bow (with traditional release) with the Burgh Castle - style helmet. His right hand is about 10 cm away from his cheek and he is still twisting his head away from the bowstring. That is very unconvincing to my opinion!
It just does not seem plausible that the shooting was done in this way.

Sorry to be so stubborn :wink: , please correct me!!!!!

Regards,