Archer & Armstrong (1992–1994) — Volume 1
Valiant’s cult-favorite odd-couple duo — a disciplined young martial artist and an immortal drunken philosopher — in a smart, action-packed adventure series.
Overview
Archer & Armstrong Vol. 1 launched in 1992 as part of Valiant Comics’ original shared universe. Created by Jim Shooter, Bob Layton, and legendary artist Barry Windsor-Smith, the series follows the unlikely partnership between Archer — a highly trained, morally rigid young warrior — and Armstrong, a centuries-old immortal with a love for wine, poetry, and mischief.
Their adventures blend satire, mythology, conspiracies, martial-arts action, and character-driven humor. The run lasted 27 issues and helped define Valiant’s early tone: grounded, clever, and heroically offbeat.
Series Summary
After escaping a fanatical cult, Archer sets out to destroy what he believes is the world’s greatest evil: Armstrong. But when he learns Armstrong is not a threat — just an immortal troublemaker — the two form one of comics’ most iconic buddy-pairings. Together they unravel secret societies, ancient plots, and cosmic mysteries, including major Valiant crossover events like Unity, The Chaos Effect, and The Root of the Problem.
Highlights
- Classic Valiant run with humor, mythology, and martial-arts action
- Archer & Armstrong’s first full ongoing series
- Covers major early-Valiant events (Unity, The Chaos Effect)
- Features art contributions by Barry Windsor-Smith
- Foundational appearances that shape later Valiant canon
Creators Jim Shooter · Bob Layton · Barry Windsor-Smith Format Ongoing Series · 27 Issues (1992–1994)
