Discover the Origin of the Word "Ballistic"
The Ballista was an engine of war invented by the Greeks in 800 BCE, and later adopted by the early Romans. Ballistas were constructed of different sizes for the various purposes of siege and field warfare. The largest ones could throw projectiles weighing up to fifty pounds as far as 400 yards! The ballista uses a pair of skeins (bundles of twisted rope) for power. Similar to the working of a crossbow, the Ballista actually preceded the crossbow in western culture by over a thousand years.
Highly detailed instructions with full color photos, diagrams and historical notes will guide you through the ballista's assembly. This kit (which includes an authentic trigger and winch mechanism) can be assembled to a finished model in 3 - 5 hours, plus glue-drying time. Some light sanding may be necessary to smooth any rough edges.
- Over 35 precision computer-cut parts made of naturally white hard wood that can be stained any color
- Stands 10" tall, 20" long and the arms sweep an arc over 20" wide
- Shoots 5" long, 1/2" diameter bolts (darts) approx. 35' once properly adjusted
Everything you need is included except for glue and a few simple tools like scissors, sandpaper, a file (a utility knife would be helpful too).
** Please note: Plywood is naturally white. Images show product AFTER staining. Stain NOT included.
For ages 16+.