Who used the arbalest?

The arbalest, a type of crossbow, was primarily used in medieval Europe, particularly from the 12th to the 16th centuries. It was favored by both military forces and hunters due to its powerful draw and ability to penetrate armor. Soldiers, mercenaries, and even some knights utilized the arbalest on the battlefield, while it was also popular among civilian archers for hunting and sport. Its design allowed for greater accuracy and range compared to traditional bows.