How to build a Trebuchet

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Why I like a Trebuchet more than a slingshot!

October 04, 2010

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Slingshots can flip the sling and pouch around during the launch, thus sending the projectile back at the launcher. Good thing it wasn't a rock!

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Trebuchet Problems. The Sling. The Pouch.

When it comes time to build a Trebuchet you may want to try to design the Trebuchet parts on your own. I think you should have some creativity and personalize your Trebuchet design. But keep in mind that the basics of a Trebuchet is what makes them so fun to build. They are simple to plan and build, and if you follow most of the designs that others have created you will have a successful launch. When I started building the Trebuchet Sling I thought I had seen enough pictures and had a good enough idea in my mind of how they work to really do it right. The first few shots just stayed trapped in the sling and didn't even release! Then I had a few roll out on the ground as the sling whipped around the Trebuchet. That was embarrassing. I guess one tip I would have is build and fire your Trebuchet the first few times by yourself to make sure it works! Make sure your sling is the right length. It should be just a bit shorter than the long side of the Trebuchet Arm. Also, this is as

Trebuchet plans

So here are the questions I have so far. 1. How long is the arm supposed to be? 2. How long is base supposed to be? 3. How much should the counter weight weigh? 4. How long will the sling need to be? 5. How much will the projectile need weigh? Of course these are all based on proportions. If the arm is 10 inches it will have a different base than if the arm is 10 feet. As you adjust those proportions how does it affect release, distance and velocity? Let's figure it out and build a better Trebuchet!

Student Project "Build a Trebuchet"

I'm curious if you have ever had to build a Trebuchet as a student project. What were the teacher's requirements? Did you have to use certain materials? Was the Trebuchet supposed to be under a certain height? What did you have to throw? What was the distance you had to achieve? I guess I'm wondering what the requirements are and how well you did. Feel free to share your story with me. If you're a teacher I would love to hear what you've asked of your students and what they have come up with.

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Why I like a Trebuchet more than a slingshot!

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