Low Cost Tactics

[Adept]

I don't know if it counts as low cost tactic, but good basic combined arms with indie heavy infantry backed up by javelin throwing indie light infantry makes a nice and effective basic army unit. Get 40 each with two basic commanders, and you have nice little army.

Those bows or war really are a nice way to get archers. Maybe give them a bit of armour and missile protection if you can affoard the gems, and they won't even get killed by counter fire like normal archers.