I have gone through the trouble of seeking out info on the realistic ranges of bows and firearms, large and small, throughout this time period. i have modified the projectiles and unit files to match and "WOW". Battle open up the AI certainly responds better and seems to get pissed at being bombarded or they run for cover or out of range. Paybacks for the this are also harsh as artillery units duel it out at long range, to the finish cavalry can't wait to throw its hand in and in sufficient numbers gets the job done enough that the infantry doesn't really have to. It plays out better on my severely outdated video card as well as units are not all bunched up. This game uses much more of the battlefield as well making me wish they were twice the size they are now or even three times. I still dislike the general lack of villages in battles but I guess this goes up as farmlands are improved.
Ranged units still close on each other unless they are in skirmish mode but this invokes the wrath of the cavalry which can't wait the eat up the skirmishers for being needled up. I like it much better. When the cavalry moves the infantry follows which leads to a huge melee that I can only usually hang on the perifery of, but, 'WOW'. Much more realistic. Definitely not into the minimalist ranges anymore.
I am still, however, on Beta4 as I don't want to keep modifying would like to finish a game. I am also waiting for Patch 2 and my new and improved 512mb video card.
Rock on, People!