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The Crossbow
When the bowstring is stretched, and secured by the catch of the lock,
the lever has, of course, no strain upon it and may be removed till again
required. The cross-bow is then ready for use.
It takes but a few seconds to fit the lever to the crossbow and bend
its bow.
Fig. 157. - The Target Shooting Bolt for the Belgian
Crossbow. Half full size.
Total weight, 1 oz. and 6 drachms, avoirddupois. The
weight of the metal head with its collar = 3S.9d. in silver coin of the
realm.
Note. - The bolt used with this crossbow for shooting at small wooden
birds (fixed on a high pole), has a blunt head, so that when a bird is
struck it is possible to knock it off its perch on the pole. See fig. 165,
p. 227.
If a sharp-headed bolt were employed, it might remain in the bird without
bringing it to the ground. |
