Quote Originally Posted by macsen rufus
I found the big drawback to Egyptians is the lack of swords (except when you get to proper handgunners). I mostly used the abs as flankers, cover for missile troops, or occasionally poised behind/between Saras to open the latest delivery of Canned Crusader stuck on the end of their spears.... I also love them for taking apart pinned cavalry, but in nearly all uses they have to be the hammer of a hammer and anvil tactic.
I see, thanks for the explanation. When playing the Egyptians, I favour a more fluid style of battle, with lots of skirmishing and archery, preferably from horseback. I don't really need a special hammer unit, my royal Ghulams, aided by Mameluk horse archers and Faris, can take care of pinned enemy units. If necessary, Muwahids can do a very good job at flanking: they are fast, good morale, powerful charge and due to the rank bonus a good defence. You do need to have them at engage-at-will or else you will waste the charge, but they are very good light spearmen.

Ghazis and other hard hitters do not feature much in this kind of battle: when I engage the enemy should already be on the brink of routing.