Levied Troops - Infantry Blocks, Archers, & Skirmishers

Most troops on the battlefields at this time are made up of blocks of levied men, drawn from the lower classes. In many cases, these are serfs who follow their masters into battle. Most are armed with spears, shields, a long knife or axe,, and some will have access to basic helmets and the most basic of armour. The leaders will sometimes have slightly better equipment, including elements such as a sword or other specialised weapon, and maybe leather armour. Some are formed into skirmishers with javelins, darts, or slings. Also, some are (depending on region or race) are archers, armed with the same bows as they regularly use, or crossbows of different sizes. The latter two fight from behind the former, and/or the sides to protect the flanks, and attack at a distance while allowing their own melee units to advance. In many cases, these troops would be led by the most experienced members of their settlements (ex-militia, town mayor, or tribal leader). A few cases a sergeant-at-arms is used to leading them, and will be known to the troops, through their lords using these characters to train the troops before battle, and with them being part of their lordship's retinue.
Training is expected to be carried out at least once a year, and most are expected to have their own equipment, or access to an armoury protected by their leaders. All equipment is expected to be maintained regularly. Most of these troops can be used as a peacekeeping / police force of sorts when needed to in their local community. Nearly every troop type will have at least some experience with their weapons, usually by means of day-to-day use, such as in hunting, or basic work. The lord of a region is expected to raise as many fighting men as he can when requested by the higher leaders of his country, but may pay to have both himself or the troops let go if a price is paid to the king. This means the money can be used to pay for other items or people needed, and allows the levies to continue working on the lord's lands.
Sometimes these troops are made of freemen, such as the Saxon Frydman units, and they are usually slightly better trained & equipped than most others. Some of these will have done military service before.

Type

Infantry