Rouncey

A rouncey, also spelled rounsey or rowncey, was a type of medieval warhorse or riding horse, generally considered of lower quality and price than a destrier or courser. Rounceys were used by knights, men-at-arms, and squires for everyday riding, transportation, and for battle when a more valuable warhorse was not required, had been injured, or was unavailable. They were also commonly used by lower-ranking soldiers and servants who accompanied armies.

Unlike the specialized and highly trained destrier, rounceys were typically general-purpose horses. They were not specifically bred for size or strength like the destrier, and their training was less intensive. While still capable of carrying a rider in armor, a rouncey's primary function was often as a reliable and versatile mount. Their lower cost made them more accessible to a broader range of individuals within a medieval army or household.

The precise size and characteristics of a rouncey are not definitively known, as medieval terminology for horses was often imprecise and varied depending on the time and place. However, they were generally smaller and less powerful than destriers, and probably more akin to a sturdy riding horse or light draft horse. Rounceys could still be effective in battle, particularly for flanking maneuvers or pursuing fleeing enemies. They also played a crucial role in logistics and transportation, carrying supplies and equipment. The number of rounceys a knight or lord possessed often indicated their wealth and status.