Re: Crossbows

>> Pretty good stuff, I agree for most crossbows it wouldn't be useful.
>But,
>> I _can_ see such a device perhaps working on a hand crossbow with a 20
>> pound or so pull.  Reduce the range a bit, add a 6 bolt clip and increase
>
>Unfortunately, for a 20 pound bow, you may as well just throw the bolts
>yourself. You'd get more force. You might want to visit your local archery
>range and/or store and ask to try some stuff out. See how things really
>work. Avoid the bows with training wheels.

LOL:) Actually,  I'm something of an ancient archery expert,  my
dissertation topic is on the Byzantine Composite bow... yes, I shot
composite bows:) Yes,  you wouldn't do much damage,  but with a sharp,
steel tip, about as much as if someone hit you with a dart (as in pub
darts) (_maybe_ some serious damage if you get a lucky hit in the throat).
<shrug> _Most_ archers were just for annoyance historically anyway
(especially at long ranges)  The damage in this case would be from the
poison (like the drow handcrossbows),  and the fact that the weapon wasn't
very powerful would simply be one reason it's not widespread.  And yes, a
well thrown throwing knife would have more force (but require greater skill
to use:))

Sorry about your name.  Grey,  cool name:)

"Human life without knowledge of history is nothing other than a perpetual
childhood, nay, a permanent obscurity and darkness." Philip Melanchthon
westermeyer.3@???.edu
Paul Westermeyer
Phd Candidate, History, Ohio State University
Adjunct Faculty, Humanities Department, Columbus State Community College