A summary of the history, construction and effects in warfare of the projectile-throwing engines of the ancients, with a treatise on the structure, power and management of Turkish and other Oriental bows of mediæval and later times

by Sir Ralph Payne-Gallwey

Agesistratus,[3] a Greek writer who flourished B.C. 200, and who wrote a treatise on making arms for war, estimated that some of the engines shot from 3½ to 4 ‘stades’ (700 to 800 yards).

[3] The writings of Agesistratus are non-extant but are quoted by Athenæus.

Though such a very long flight as this appears almost incredible, I can adduce no sound reason for doubting its possibility. From recent experiments I am confident I could now build an engine of a size and power to accomplish such a feat if light missiles were used, and if its cost were not a consideration.

Fig. 4.—A Siege Catapult (without a sling).

From Polybius. Edition 1727.

PART II
THE CATAPULT (WITH A SLING)

Fig. 5.—A Siege Catapult (without a sling).

Criticism.—This engine was moved into position on rollers and then props were placed under its sides to adjust the range of the projectile.