How to Make a Arbalest Crossbow
The arbalest crossbow was once the most feared weapon on the medieval battlefield. It was accurate up to 500 meters and could easily penetrate or crush armor. Crafting an arbalest crossbow requires a good amount of time and concentration. As the bow of an arbalest is made of steel, it requires a crank to reset. Fitting this crank into the body of an arbalest is a gratifying challenge for any do-it-yourself enthusiast.
Things You'll Need
- 7-foot length of oak (4x8)
- Hammer and chisel
- Block plane
- 6-foot length of steel bar (1/2x3)
- 6 feet of steel cable (1/4-inch diameter)
- Hand-Cranked Winch
- Power Drill
- Sawzall
- 2-inch fork claw
- 200-grit sandpaper
- Pair of linemen
Instructions
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1
Cut the 7-foot length of oak to accommodate the steel bow approximately one foot from the end. This should be a block cut that allows the bow to fit through.
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2
Drill two 1/4-inch holes in the steel bow, four inches from the ends, then slide into the oak chassis. Use wedge blocks to secure in place.
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3
Hollow out a 5-foot trench to accommodate the crossbow missile. The trench should be three inches deep and three inches wide. Use 200-grit sandpaper to smooth out.
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4
Cut out a one foot notch at the end of the oak beam to accommodate the hand-cranked winch. The winch can be found at any hardware or boating store.
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5
Screw the winch in place with wood screws, then cut out a slot for a 2-inch fork claw at the end of the missile trench. This will hold the steel cable in place.
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6
Thread the steel cable through the bow and tie off with a pair of linemen. Attach the 2-inch fork claw to the winch line.
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7
Slacken the winch line and attach the claws of the fork claw to the steel cable. Begin to crank the bow line back slowly. The slower the better.
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8
Once the steel cable has cleared the missile trench, secure the fork claw in the cut slot. You now have a drawn arbalest crossbow.
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Tips & Warnings
Be mindful of hand-driven cranks and your fingers. A steel bow, especially when under tension, can cause serious damage to hands or limbs.
Resources
- Photo Credit Image from Wikimedia Commons.
