Building a Trebuchet

[RandomSkater]

I just decided tonite that I'm going to build a trebuchet.
I don't really know where or, more importantly, when, though.

It probably won't get done for awhile, but it'd be cool to make it this summer.

It won't be anything too bad, probably one yard tall and about the same width and length wise.
About big enough to chuck a golf or tennis ball a good distance.

[Merika]

trebuchet

I don't know what that is. :oops:

[Weiser]

Think large sized catapult, it's different, but it's like that.

[Merika]

So this would be a building project or simply a unique way to kill the squirrels?

[RandomSkater]

Sorry, I figured most would know what a trebuchet is.

Weiser is right, it's a medeival catapult type seige weapon used for slinging rocks, fstuff on fire, diseased cattle, etc.

It works by using a sling and counterweight and uses the same principle as a playground see-saw.

The falling weight causes the arm to move up, which make the sling fly out in an ark. When the sling gets to a certain point, part of the rope/string comes off of of pin which causes the part of the sling holding the projectile to come open and let go of it.

Here's some pictures:

[Luba]

Will it be difficult or complicated to build, Random?

[RandomSkater]

I'm not exactly sure.

building the frame is pretty much screwing boards together. I think the hardest part would be figuring out how to make the axle type thing to make the arm pivot.
Also, in order to get it to let go of the projectile at the right time, the hook has to be positioned just right.

I'm planning on it taking me two weeks to finish, maybe one if it goes well.