Nowadays, there are many crossbows of different directions. They can be sports, recursive, block. This type of weapon is used in sports, they are used on vacation or presented as a gift. One of the most interesting models is the multi-shot crossbow. What kind of weapons are these?
From the history
The birthplace of crossbows is China. With the development of cities, it became necessary to improve the usual bow, which was previously used as a weapon. Of course, the experienced shooter wanted the bow to save energy, and there was more time to aim. In the case of a crossbow, the speed of the shot is reduced, but the shot itself is more powerful and accurate.
If in Greece mainly complex forms of weapons developed, then in China the most primitive types were improved.
The first Chinese crosshairs discovered during excavations date back to the 4th-3rd centuries BC. The design was a crossbow 1.8 meters long, which could throw a 3-meter dart with a rope - to return it back.
At that time, Chinese artillery was notable for its impressive size and low practical orientation. The described crossbow could frighten the enemy rather than really hit. After all, a dart 3 meters long, and even tied with a rope, could hardly fly a long distance. Apparently, the weapon was intended to destroy close targets.
Later they began to use hand crossbows, which were distributed in neighboring countries. The release of Chinese weapons was accompanied by magical rituals and was timed to coincide with the seasons.
In the XI century, self-arrows began to appear with more complex technical characteristics. Many-beam constructions of this time are also known.
The Chinese, on the other hand, created multi-charged crossbows to counter the barbarians. Such weapons were distinguished by weakness and inaccuracy, but a high rate of fire. Mention of multi-charged crossbows dates back to 121 BC.
In the III century, a crossbow was invented, later called the "fast dragon machine." It was used until the 19th century. The shooter could fire 10-12 arrows in 15 seconds. For greater efficiency, arrows were sometimes treated with poison.
How does it work?
The crossbow shooter shoots as follows. The bowstring is pulled, the bolt from the store goes into the gutter. When the trigger is activated, the arrow flies out of the groove. After making a shot, the shooter moves the lever, the next arrow from the store is ready.
Today’s multi-charged crossbow has compact dimensions. Its advantage over a bow is that the crossbow can be kept cocked for a long time. The quality of the shot from this does not decrease.
Gradually, the design of the Chinese multi-charged crossbow changed and improved. More convenient models are now available. Gun shops offer a wide range of shooters. Multiply charged crossbows are especially popular.
How to use?
First of all, it should be said about the shortcomings of this type of weapon. There are two of them:
- No noiselessness. When fired, the crossbow emits cotton.
- The gun does not shoot long distances.
At the heart of multi-charged structures are shoulders that rotate. To cock a weapon, you need to take it by one shoulder, take it all the way, then return the shoulders to their original position and shoot.
The effectiveness of the shot will be determined by the physical strength of the shooter. The rate of fire will increase, but the effectiveness will remain minimal.
Multiply charged crossbow: we make weapons with our own hands
Among crossbow lovers, it became popular to make weapons on their own. To do this at home is quite difficult. The basis for such a weapon is the same as that of a traditional model. To construct a crossbow, you must:
- make a drum;
- make a bowstring;
- Know how to load weapons.
Detailed descriptions and drawings can be found on specialized sites and in the relevant literature.
Algorithm for shooting from homemade weapons:
- The device is turned clockwise or counterclockwise to engage the trigger device.
- Turn the other way. The bowstring will be pulled, the next arrow will be established in a fighting position.
- Directly shot. In this case, the trigger device works , and the bowstring releases a projectile.
With this scheme, reloading is carried out as quickly as possible, the rate of fire increases.
Shooting technique
The process of firing from any crossbows includes three stages:
- String tension.
- Overlay bolt. The shooter charges the weapon, the bolt fits into the gutter.
- Sight and shot. The shooter puts the gun on his shoulder, takes aim and shoots.
When using a weapon, you must observe safety precautions, in no case do not leave it charged and cocked. Shooting idle or up is prohibited. It is not allowed to use shells from other guns. Leaving a weapon unattended is also unsafe. Regularly check the technical condition of the device.
Subject to these simple rules, crossbow shooting will be a fascinating activity that will bring only positive emotions.