Wubei Zhi (Vol. 34)

Military Training Records: Volume 85

Training in Military Skills II

Although the arrow is small, it carries a deceptive weight; even at a hundred paces, it retains surplus force. This proves that the "fury-driven force" original: nu li (怒力). This refers to the mechanical, static tension of the crossbow. of the crossbow cannot match the "skill-driven force" original: qiao li (巧力). This refers to the dynamic, fluid power generated by a master archer. of the bow.

However, while those in this world who practice with the bow and arrow are found everywhere, you might count hundreds or thousands of them without finding a single master. The skill required is incredibly difficult. Therefore, Master Ruan original: Ruan Zi (阮子). Likely referring to Ruan Kan, a scholar known for his commentaries on technical and philosophical matters. said:

Furthermore, regarding the treadle-drawn crossbow original: juezhang zhi nu (蹶張之弩). A powerful crossbow drawn by placing the foot in a stirrup and using the legs and back to pull the string, rather than just the arms. that I have now designed, a person of medium strength can draw it, and even those of the most common intelligence can master it. By following the loading and shooting methods described later in this volume, one can learn the technique in the morning and be fully proficient by evening. Although its range is slightly inferior to the bow, its accuracy surpasses it.

Moreover, rain and dew do not hinder its use Humidity often caused the organic glues in traditional composite bows to fail, whereas the crossbow's mechanism was more robust., and the cost of production is significantly lower. Once the string is drawn and the arrow is nocked—within ten paces, it remains a lethal weapon. In these practical regards, the bow seems unable to compete.