Quartermaster

Armies have always been more than just the men in the ranks. Provision of weapons, armour, supplies and camp materials was essential. Almost any workshop could make axes, javelins and spears, arrows and lead sling bullets, or simple leather armour, but making supplies in sufficient quantity needed central organisation. More complex equipment often required skilled blacksmiths working in better shops. A good sword needed time and skill to make, as did high-quality armour. Siege equipment could be constructed on site, but there was always a need for specialised parts. It was relatively easy to find timber, but the ironwork and sinew 'springs' needed might be harder to find on campaign. These pieces would be created in advance in specialised central workshops.