Advantages of the long-bow.
The long-bow was light, inexpensive, and unaffected by weather, as the strings could be removed. Moreover, 12 arrows could be fired with accuracy in one minute. Two feathers in an arrow were to be white, and one brown or grey, and this difference in colour informed the archer in an instant how to place the arrow.
Disadvantages of the long-bow.
Although arrows could be shot from a bow with far greater rapidity and precision than balls from a musket, yet in damp weather the bow and string might become so much relaxed that the efficacy of the instrument became much impaired. A side wind deflected the arrow exceedingly in its flight, and even against a moderate wind, it was difficult to shoot at all.
Our Forefathers encouraged to acquire skill in archery by legal enactments, and by the founders of our public schools.
1ST. BY LEGAL ENACTMENTS.
Henry 2nd from 1154 to 1189.