How do you make a crossbow?

A crossbow is basically a bow with a stick attached to hold the bow at the ready so you don't have to. Many believe it's incredibly easy for anyone to master a crossbow and shoot with total accuracy. That is the allure of the crossbow. In reality, crossbows like other Archery equipment require a learning curve to master. Crossbows are not guns and will never shoot with the speed or power of a high power rifle like the 30/06.

If you want to build one you must decide what your building skills really are. If you don't have many skills or tools, maybe it would be best to just purchase an inexpensive crossbow and use it for a model for anything you may build.

If you decide to build a crossbow there are three things to tackle in your planning. Fist is the bow or "prod" of the crossbow. That's the part that will propel the arrow or "bolt". You can use a small bow or get an actual prod. If there is one part of the crossbow not to skimp on this is it. I've heard of people using leaf springs from cars to power their crossbow. That's a bit overkill and you'll need one hell of a stick to keep that prod cocked. You can also use aircraft aluminum or spring steel.

On the web you can find, "bow making supplies" and purchase the wood and fiberglass backing to make a bow suitable for making your bow. Some of these companies can also provide plans an/or suggestions. Big time saver!

The second thing to concur is the string. This may seem trivial but in fact its just as important as the prod. The String is the means by which the energy from the prod will be delivered to the bolt. Originally Sinew from an animal was used. But lately simple Waxed Nylon thread from Tandy leather will work. You can also use the uber special threads used to make actual bowstrings. I've found the Waxed Thread works just as well and costs a whole lot less. You can look up string making techniques on line.

Last thing to concur is the easiest yet the most complicated, the firing mechanism. There are dozens of ways to fire your crossbow. A simple internet search will give my many types to choose from. But, if you're serious about making medieval crossbow that fires with accuracy and reliability then you need to make a rolling block crossbow. It's far and above a better design than anything else out there. Pictures for the rolling block and trigger mechanism are all over the net.

There is a brief rundown on making a crossbow. I hope this helped. And if you build one, please be responsible with it!