Trebuchet User Guide 58670 V0313 1
How a Trebuchet Works
If you’ve ever read about what life was like during medieval times, you’ll know there were wars during this
period in which ghting was much more hands on and weapons were far less sophisticated than today.
The invention of the trebuchet put a twist on what people knew as a catapult. Both machines were used
to ing huge rocks that would break down the walls of a castle and let invaders inside. Instead of throwing
weight on one end of the catapult’s lever to propel the rocks forward, the trebuchet has a sling that swings
from the bottom to the top of the machine, giving it more momentum and projectile force.
Materials Included
• Basswood sheets with laser-cut pieces • 1/4" x 1" flexible tubing
• Design template for bending paper clips • Large paper clips (2)
• 1" x 12" basswood strip • Strip of ripstop nylon
• 1/4" x 4-3/4" basswood strips (4) • 36" piece of nylon string
• 1/8" x 3" brass tube • 1/8" brass washers (2)
• 5/32" x 1/2" brass tube • 2 lever arm end caps (1-1/2" x 2" punch out piece)
Items Required (not included)
• White glue or CA glue • Sandpaper
• Hobby knife • Ruler
• Needle-nose pliers • Scissors
• Safety glasses • Mass plates (required for launch; Pitsco product #58676)
• Felt-tip marker • Modeling clay (to make projectiles)
Building the Base
1. Punch out the trebuchet body pieces from the basswood
template. The two small base pieces t at the bottom of the
Y-shaped side pieces. Glue them onto the bottom of one side
piece.
2. Glue the other side piece on top and let dry. These will form a at
square on the bottom that will be the base.
Cautionary and Warning Statement
• This kit is designed and intended for educational purposes only.
• Use only under the direct supervision of an adult who has read and understood the instructions pro-
vided in this user guide.
• Read warnings on packaging and this user guide carefully.
• Safety glasses required.
• Do not aim at people.
• Always exercise caution when using sharp tools.
Steps 1-2
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