Wubei Zhi (Vol. 34)

Volume II: Battle Formations

The Crossbow: Training in Military Skills II

The ancient mechanism features a trigger sear original: ya (牙), literally "tooth." This is the part of the mechanism that catches and holds the drawn bowstring. in the front and a sight scale original: gui (規), literally "gauge" or "rule." This acted as a rear sight to help the soldier aim at varying distances. in the rear. This sight scale is engraved with markings used to calibrate for long or short distances. On the outside, there is a trigger box original: guo (郭), literally "outer wall" or "casing." This is the bronze housing that holds the internal moving parts together. which serves as the frame for the entire assembly.

Regarding the famous crossbow design of Yu Xun Yu Xun was a renowned Song Dynasty technical official credited with refining the "Divine Arm Crossbow" (Shenbi Nu), which was famous for its high tension and sophisticated trigger.:

Its ingenuity is truly unsurpassed.

Since ancient times, the use of the crossbow has fallen into neglect. Although these mechanisms still exist today, they survive only in the collections of antiquarians original: bogu jia (博古家). Literally "those who broadly study the ancient," referring to scholars or hobbyists who collect and admire ancient artifacts. as curiosities or items for aesthetic appreciation. It is my special hope that those who share my interests will apply these designs to the service of our country, ensuring they are recognized as practical tools for achieving military merit.