Although these units have the hitting power and range of crossbows, don't expect them to be as skilled as regular crossbowmen: these units have a far poorer fire rate, and are, for all purposes, dead meat if facing enhanced archer UUs or cavalry — also note that they have a minimum range, so they will inherently run if cornered by melee weapons. These units, however, are ideal for massing ranged power, although many factions will often find that they have better units around for the job.