Skirmisher

In ancient and medieval warfare, skirmishers typically carried bows, javelins, spears, as well as sidearms and light shields. Acting as light infantry with their light arms and minimal armor, they could run ahead of the main battle line, release a volley of arrows, rocks or javelins, and retreat behind their main battle line before the clash of the opposing main forces. The aims of skirmishing were to disrupt enemy formations by causing casualties before the main battle, and to tempt the opposing infantry into attacking prematurely, throwing their organization into disarray.

Once the preliminary skirmishing was done, the skirmishers would participate during the main battle by shooting into the enemy formation, or could participate in melée combat with daggers, flails or short swords. Alternatively, they could also act as ammunition bearers or stretcher-bearers.Due to their mobility, skirmishers were also valuable for reconnaissance, especially in wooded or urban areas.