Skirmishers versus Line

[alexjack]

Could a strong skirmish line defeat a regiment in line of battle?

 

[Wehrkraftzersetzer]

would depend of the supplies and the condition of the men, if equal I don't think so.

 

[Kirk's Raider's]

Could a strong skirmish line defeat a regiment in line of battle?

Not an expert but the general rule of the offensive force at point of contact should outnumber it's opponents by at least a factor of three to one. Yes of course in actual combat actions that's not always achievable .
Again not an expert but isn't the main focus or task of skirmishers to drive back enemy pickets and prevent ambushes and once they encounter the main line of enemy resistance maintain a safe distance so that their commander can then determine the best course of action?
Kirk's Raider's

 

[jgoodguy]

Not an expert but the general rule of the offensive force at point of contact should outnumber it's opponents by at least a factor of three to one. Yes of course in actual combat actions that's not always achievable .
Again not an expert but isn't the main focus or task of skirmishers to drive back enemy pickets and prevent ambushes and once they encounter the main line of enemy resistance maintain a safe distance so that their commander can then determine the best course of action?
Kirk's Raider's

That is what I understand also.

 

[5fish]

I think a strong skirmish line is an oxymoron...