Crossbow

A crossbow is a special type of bow. The flexible limb is attached to a central stock. The string is drawn back by manual or mechanical means and is held in position by a catch or lever. The weapon can then be loaded with a crossbow bolt, which is basically a stick or metal rod, perhaps with feathers. To fire, the user just aims the stock in the direction of the target, and releases the string.

It is a very powerful weapon but its lack of accuracy makes it really only effective over a short distance.

A larger weapon that works like a crossbow is a ballista.

Crossbows in the SCA

In the SCA, any crossbows that are used in combat must be restricted according to the specifications set out in the Society and Kingdom combat handbooks.

Archers may also find that they are required by state, territory, province or federal laws to hold a license for their crossbow.