Catapults

Crossbows

Pro Diablo Catapult

Black Widow

Safety Rules

The Black Widow Slingshot is designed to be a safe and fun product. However, as with any shooting-style product, certain safety rules must be observed. It is HIGHLY recommended that these rules be read before using the Black Widow Slingshot.

Slingshots are NOT toys. For maximum safety and enjoyment always exercise caution, common sense and safety rules when shooting the Black Widow Slingshot.

NEVER aim or draw the Black Widow in the direction of a person. Aim and draw ONLY in the direction of an appropriate target.

ALWAYS have a full view of the path to the target and beyond when shooting.

ALWAYS wear safety glasses when shooting your slingshot

Crossbows, Catapults

What is a Crossbow?

A crossbow is a modified bow and arrow system. Invented by the Chinese as early as 6 B.C. for military use, it did not become popular in Europe for several thousand years. The crossbow has a bow attached to a stock, allowing it to remain loaded when not in use. A lever attached to the stock aides in the loading of the crossbow. When the lever is released, the arrow, or bolt, will fire.

Crossbows are deadly accurate and have a firing range longer than a traditional longbow. They are easier to operate and are the perfect weapon for those who do not have the strength to effectively pull the classic bow. The disadvantage of the crossbow is that it takes longer to load and six to seven arrows can be shot by a longbow in the minute it takes to load the crossbow.

Shown above is the Barnett Quad 400 Crossbow UK

The extended range of the crossbow explains its appeal. Compared to the longbow, which can shoot about 280 feet (255 meters), the crossbow can cover approximately 380 yards (360 meters). At tactical range, both weapons can pierce plate armor provided the arrow was correctly tempered.

The Roman Army knew about the existence of crossbows, but chose to stay with the traditional longbow as the weapon of choice. It is believed that crossbows were introduced to Europe by William the Conqueror, at the Battle of Hastings, in 1066. The army of Richard I carried crossbows into the Middle East during the crusades and the crossbow was the preferred weapon for assassins of the time period. The use of crossbows spread across Britain and Europe and were used in battle until the 15th century.

After that time, they were mainly used for hunting. The use of a crossbow is still popular for hunting game and target practice. Crossbows today are made of many materials, including wood, metals and polymer plastics. Crossbows can be found in many styles and sizes from pistol grip crossbows to full size military models.

Crossbows Act 1987 England UK Law

It is an offence for any person to sell or let on hire a crossbow or part of a crossbow to a person under the age of 17.

It is an offence for any person under the age of 17 to buy or hire a crossbow or part of a crossbow.

It is an offence for any person under the age of 17 to have with him a crossbow which is capable of discharging a missile, or parts of a crossbow which together can be assembled to form a crossbow capable of discharging a missile.

Crossbows in England. Use for Target Shooting only.

Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981:
Section 11 prohibits the use of self-locking snares, bows, explosives or use of live mammals or birds as decoys, for capture and killing of any wild animal. It also prohibits the use of traps, snares, nets, poisons, electrical devices, dazzling devices, automatic weapons, night shooting devices, gas or smoke for killing, injuring or taking animals listed on Schedule 6. The use of sound recordings as decoys and pursuit with mechanically propelled vehicles are also prohibited for animals on Schedule 6.