Treatise on Military Preparedness, Volume 85

System of Formations and Training

Training Section 18

Combat Arts Part II

The Crossbow

Refer to Figure No. 17 This likely refers to a missing or subsequent illustration of the crossbow mechanism described in the text. A collector's seal is partially visible here.

Master Mao Mao Yuanyi (1594–1640), the author of this treatise. He refers to himself here with the honorific suffix "Zi" (Master). says: The methods and techniques for using the crossbow Original: Nu (弩). Unlike the standard bow, the crossbow used a mechanical trigger, allowing for greater tension and easier aiming, though it was slower to reload. have not been transmitted for a long time.

Junior Guardian Qi Referring to the legendary Ming General Qi Jiguang (1528–1588), who modernized the Ming military to fight pirates and northern invaders. spoke of the Ploughing Dagger-axe Original: Gengge (耕戈). This was a heavy, frame-mounted crossbow that resembled a plough; it was powerful but lacked mobility.. However, the Ploughing Dagger-axe can only be used for static defense.

Minister Liu Likely referring to Liu Tao, a contemporary military official and writer known for his interest in ancient weaponry. spoke of the Divine Arm Original: Shenbi (神臂). This refers to the "Divine Arm Crossbow" of the Song Dynasty, a weapon of legendary power said to be able to pierce heavy armor at great distances.. Yet, the ancient methods for the Divine Arm have also not been fully preserved or passed down.

In the past, while I was in Chang’an Modern-day Xi'an, the ancient capital of China and a frequent site for archaeological discoveries of Han and Tang dynasty artifacts., I obtained an ancient bronze crossbow trigger mechanism. I was struck by its unique design and added it to my collection. Later, Cheng Zongyou A famous Ming Dynasty martial artist from Haiyang who specialized in restoring lost weapon techniques. He wrote several manuals on the staff, spear, and crossbow. of Haiyang...