Ranged Weapons:
* Bow and Arrow: The cornerstone of Mongol warfare, the composite bow was renowned for its power and accuracy. They used both horse-mounted archery and stationary archery.
* Slings: Primarily used by infantry, slings provided a cheap and effective means of throwing stones and projectiles.
* Crossbow: While not as widespread as the bow, crossbows were employed in sieges and for hunting.
* Javelins: Used for throwing at close range, javelins were often employed by cavalrymen.
* Fire Arrows: These arrows were tipped with flammable material and used to ignite enemy fortifications or disrupt their formations.
Melee Weapons:
* Sabre (Scimitar): A curved, single-edged sword, the saber was the primary melee weapon for both cavalry and infantry.
* Dagger: A short, stabbing weapon used for close combat and self-defense.
* Mace: A blunt weapon with a heavy head, used to crush armor and bone.
* Axe: A versatile weapon that could be used for both chopping and thrusting.
* Spear: Used primarily by infantry, spears provided a longer reach than swords or daggers.
Other Equipment:
* Armor: While not always prevalent, Mongols used leather armor and sometimes chain mail, particularly for elite units. Helmets were also worn, with varying degrees of protection.
* Shield: While not as common as swords, Mongols used both round and rectangular shields to protect themselves in close combat.
Specialized Weapons:
* Battering Rams: Used to break down fortified gates and walls.
* Catapults: Used to hurl large projectiles, such as stones, at enemy fortifications.
Key Features of Mongol Weaponry:
* Adaptability: Mongols were known for their ability to adapt their weapons to different situations.
* Durability: Their weaponry was built to withstand harsh conditions and prolonged use.
* Ease of Use: Mongols favored weapons that were simple to learn and use, allowing them to quickly train new recruits.
It's important to note that the specific weapons used by Mongols varied depending on their social status, geographic location, and the specific time period. However, the core weapons described above were essential elements of their military arsenal.