Method of Construction
Constructed by: Emily L. Nichols
This wooden crossbow is constructed out of ash. The body
consists of two sturdy beams separated by spacers. The cross,
which goes through the front of the body, is a thinner piece of
ash that is shaped and notched so it will bend under pressure. I
used nylon masonry twine to sting the bow instead of the
historically accurate catgut or waxed linen. The trigger pivots
on a dowel in the center of the weapon. A stirrup on the front of
the bow allows the person to anchor the bow while pulling the
string back to the notch in the trigger. The person then lays a
quarrel, or arrow, in the groove in front of the trigger;
releasing the trigger fires the arrow.