[jester]

Ah yes a trained seasoned character who knows the primitive weapon would most likely be more effective than refugee armed with a primative weapon, and the refugee armed with a modern weapon would be more effective. But a trained veteran type with a modern weapon would be even further ahead and thus a force multiplier.

As for something else,

Novice types armed with primative weapons well, one needs to level the playing field.

So, slow the enemy up, force them to close so that range isn't a factor. We show alot of blunderbusses which are devestating at close range. So, build a trench or maze network where attackers need to get close, this will also channel them, so the advantage of range and accuracy is dispelled. And limit the numbers in which they can attack as well and you improve the chances of the novice defenders.

Like I said, I would build a maze of trenches leading to the blockhouse where the novices armed with primitive weapons made a stand, so the well trained well equiped attackers could not use their training and weapons to their full advantage.