How does one use a Mangonel?

[Viking Prince]

Bought one to use on the Iberia Map (Custom Campaign Mod2). Seems to kill more of my men than the enemy. How should I use this to advantage? Like a crossbow, on the front line?

[Antissa]

Yes, it can be quite effective in taking down enemies clustered together. As you have already mentioned, be sure to position it in the front lines to avoid friendly fire. Also be sure to keep some guards around the sides of the Mangonel to protect the crew and the machinery.

[snuggans]

you can keep it behind your infantry line. as the enemy force approaches you, order the mangonel crew to fire approximately at the center of the enemy line so the widespread fire can cause greater damage when falling back down. however, should the enemy force get too near its common sense to cease firing your mangonel, probably earlier than ceasing bow/crossbow fire, as the barrel is quite unpredictable.