Komnenian Byzantine archers....LF or MF?

[Trench_Raider]

Upon some reflection, I've decided that of all the FoG armies I've owned my Byzantines were the most effective. Like a fool I sold them a year ago (yes, yes, I know...) so I am in the process of painting up another Komnenian army.

Now in it's last incarnation I built the archers in the list as MF. I usually ran two eight stand BGs, one protected, and one unprotected. These were usually stationed on the flanks to see off enemy skirmishers and cavalry. In that role, they tended to do well, although they suffered if good order enemy troops got in amongst them. They worked quite well on concrt with my three knight units.

This time, I'm tempted to replace these two archer blocks with three six stand LF groups.

What do you lot think? What are the pros and cons in your opinon of each option?

TR

[david53]

Unprotected archers in eight base BG on the flank would'nt scare any LH even average tbh, base for base the LH hiting on 3's not a good match up, and if the LH were Superior one your even more likely to lose.

Not saying it can't work mind you just one I would'nt use I'm sure others have different views.

[Fluffy]

In short I'd go for a mix (2:1 LF:MF) or just LF.

Generally I find LF to be better value.

That said, I find one or two groups of MF in sixes handy, to provide rear support, in those situations where you need anything to go on a flank, to help LF with other LF (similar to LH and Cav) or just to be that extra little pinPRICK in your opponent's side.
This works better in some armies, so consider the rest of your army.

[hazelbark]

Prevailing wisdom argues for LF as filler and can safely dodge behind friends or start running earlier.

2 BG of protected in 8s is a lot of fire power, but expect people to look seriously at rushing them with quality stuff.

I think the issue is also are they receiving the -1 for side edge 6 MU.