Was the Test with Bow and Arrows vs. Plate Armor on Tods Workshop Accurate?

The tests conducted on the YouTube channel Tods Workshop regarding the effectiveness of arrows against plate armor have generated considerable discussion. Here’s a breakdown of the key points regarding their accuracy and the historical context:

Accuracy of the Test

Setup and Execution: The tests usually involve modern replicas of both arrows and plate armor. The results can vary based on factors like the type of arrow, the draw weight of the bow, the distance from which the arrows are shot, and the specific design and thickness of the armor.

Realism: While the tests can provide insights, they may not fully replicate historical conditions. The materials used today may differ in quality and characteristics compared to historical counterparts. Additionally, the tests may lack certain variables present in actual combat scenarios. For instance, the psychological and tactical factors present in real battles are not always accounted for in these experiments.

Can Arrows Penetrate Plate Armor?

General Capability: In general, arrows, especially those from powerful longbows, could penetrate certain types of armor under specific conditions. However, full plate armor was designed to resist penetration from arrows, particularly at close range.

Historical Context: At battles like Agincourt, while many arrows could not penetrate the armor of fully armored knights, they could still cause injuries by striking unprotected areas or by hitting the armor at angles that compromised its effectiveness. The psychological and tactical impact of massed archery is often emphasized in accounts of the battle, rather than the physical penetration of plate armor.

The Agincourt Example

Historical Accounts: The effectiveness of English longbowmen at Agincourt is well-documented. However, the narrative often emphasizes the psychological and tactical impact of massed archery rather than outright penetration of plate armor. Many soldiers wore lighter armor or had gaps in their protection that arrows could exploit.

Myths and Misunderstandings: The idea that archers could consistently shoot through plate armor is often exaggerated. While some arrows could penetrate less effective armor or exploit weaknesses, the armor's design generally made it quite resilient against direct hits.

Conclusion

While Tods Workshop may provide useful insights, it’s essential to consider the limitations of their tests and the complexities of historical armor and weaponry. The effectiveness of arrows against plate armor is nuanced; while some penetration was possible, it was not the norm, particularly against well-made full plate armor. The stories from battles like Agincourt highlight the broader tactical roles of archers rather than a straightforward narrative of penetration.