The Art of the Catapult

The Art of the Catapult by William Gurstelle

Build Greek Ballistae, Roman Onagers, English Trebuchets, and More Ancient Artillery! Whether playing at defending their own castle or simply chucking pumpkins over a fence, wannabe marauders and tinkerers will become fast acquainted with Ludgar, the War Wolf, Ill Neighbor, Cabulus, and the Wild Donkey—ancient artillery devices known commonly as catapults. Instructions and diagrams illustrate how to build seven authentic working model catapults, including an early Greek ballista, a Roman onager, and the apex of catapult technology, the English trebuchet. Additional projects include learning how to lash and make rope and how to construct and use a hand sling and a staff sling. The colorful history of siege warfare is explored through the stories of Alexander the Great and his battle of Tyre; Saladin, Richard the Lionheart, and the Third Crusade; pirate-turned-soldier John Crabbe and his ship-mounted catapults; and Edward I of England and his battle against the Scots at Stirling Castle. 

Book Details:

• Number of Pages: 160
• Book Size: 6-3/4" x 8-3/4"
• Book Type: Paperback
• Recommended Ages: 8 through adult
• ISBN 10: 1556525265

Book Condition:

• This book is brand new and is in perfect condition. 

William Gurstelle is the author of the bestselling Backyard Ballistics (which we also have available) and Building Bots. He is a professional engineer who has been researching and building model catapults and ballistic devices for more than 30 years.

Why We Love It

Building these simple yet sophisticated machines introduces fundamentals of math and physics using levers, force, torsion, tension, and traction. A great learning tool!