crossbows from the Hermitage

katana · 6th January 2010, 01:28 AM

The first crossbow shown is missing its roller nut (holds the 'string' before release via the trigger) Dmitry I think the 'hole' left is what you are mistaking for a stone/ball 'holder'.
The metalwork to which I think you are refering to Fernando, is a spring catch (sprung steel) pivoted on the screw 180 degrees it holts the bolt in place, if firing downwards (without this the bolt will just slide off) Think: shooting down from battlements.
Due to the ornate work on both these crossbows, it is extremely likely they were for hunting. War x-bows tend to be more utilitarian.

Both fantastic pieces.

Regards David

6th January 2010, 01:28 AM	#6
katana Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Kent Posts: 2,658	The first crossbow shown is missing its roller nut (holds the 'string' before release via the trigger) Dmitry I think the 'hole' left is what you are mistaking for a stone/ball 'holder'. The metalwork to which I think you are refering to Fernando, is a spring catch (sprung steel) pivoted on the screw 180 degrees it holts the bolt in place, if firing downwards (without this the bolt will just slide off) Think: shooting down from battlements. Due to the ornate work on both these crossbows, it is extremely likely they were for hunting. War x-bows tend to be more utilitarian. Both fantastic pieces. Regards David Attached Images Last edited by katana; 6th January 2010 at 02:36 AM.