Records of Armament and Provisions, Volume 85

Regulations for Training and Equipment: Drill and Arts 2

Do not artificially vary the thickness; rather, manufacture all layers according to the natural thickness of the bamboo pieces. The width and taper of the two tips of this layer should follow the standards set by the third stave.

The fifth stave layer should be two cun and one fen approximately 6.7 centimeters shorter at each end than the fourth layer. The width and taper of its two tips should follow the standards of the fourth stave.

The sixth stave layer should be two cun and one fen shorter at each end than the fifth layer. This is known as the striking stave original: da dan (打擔); the final, shortest layer of the composite limb that provides the terminal snap. The width and taper of its two tips should follow the standards of the fifth stave.

The dimensions of the wooden mounting block original: mu tuo (木托); the cradle or housing for the limb are determined by the width of the striking stave. The width of the center of all six stave layers is dictated by the size of the stave socket the aperture in the crossbow stock where the limb is fitted; as these must be fitted precisely to the individual weapon, it is impossible to record these measurements in writing.

At the extreme ends of the first stave layer, carve a small horizontal groove to hold the binding cord original: ban suo (絆索); a secondary cord used to secure the limb assembly to the stock. When stringing the bow, the cord must sit tightly against the tips of the stave; do not leave any excess length. The groove must not be carved too deep; if it is too deep, it will weaken and damage the stave when the bow is under tension. Finally, carve the string notches original: xian kou (弦扣) right next to these grooves.