Catapults are great to play with although it’s a must that you use the necessary safety measures when handling catapults.

My brother was in boy scouts as a kid and I remember him telling me the story of how he built a catapult and the launcher flew off and hit a kid in the head.  She had to get stitches and all.  So be careful at all times.

How to make a catapult.  They are actually quite simple to make.  If your good with your hands it shouldn’t be a problem at all for you to complete one in a weekend, depending on the type your trying to build.

There are a bunch of different types of catapults that you can make.  In midieval times the catapult was a very notorious weapon.

Remember there is always the risk of injury when you are dealing with any kind of mechanism that is hurling objects. Also, there is the risk of injury when actually building the catapult itself.  This is something that I always try to stress.   YOU are solely responsible for all risk and any injury to yourself and others that may result from you using the information from this post.

The very first things you need to do when setting out to build a catapult is determine the type of catapult you want to build.   Do you want to tackle the project from scratch or use a kit to make the task a lot simpler?

If you’re a beginner the choices are obvious.  You should take advantage of a kit instead of tackling the job of designing and building your own catapult from scratch.  I would suggest you get a few projects under your belt before going from scratch.

That still leaves you with the choice of what type of catapult to build.

Types Of Catapults Most Used In Medieval Times

1. Trebuchet (Stirling Warwolf Trebuchet)
2. Ballista (Ballista Siege Engine)
3. Springald
4. Mangonel
5. Onager
6. Couillard

A great book that has 9 Different Catapult Building Plans is The Big Book Of Catapult & Trebuchet Plans.

The best place to start when building catapults is with the frame.  The tools needed for this job is going to hammer and nails, screw driver and screws and possibly even some glue depending on the type of catapult being built.

After the frame most likely you be moving on to the launcher.  When making the launcher you want to make sure its strong and that it aligns properly.  If not you’ll have to make adjustments and that sucks especially if you have to go back after you’ve already completed the job.

That is pretty much it.  After that you’ll have to test the launch to make the necessary corrections if needed.

Be careful to make sure that everything works out.  Remember to check the alignments carefully.

The basic principle is pretty much the same but there are many different designs.  The Romans used them frequently and so did other cultures.  There are times when building catapults that like to incorporate them into your own creations.

If you are going to build a catapult, you should try to be imaginative too.   As long as you stick to the fundamentals, it will work out just fine.  Practice building a miniature catapult a few times to get the hang of it before jumping right into the big stuff.

Check Out This Video On How To Build A 3 Foot Wyvern Catapult

Complete Series Here

Stirling Warwolf Trebuchet

From: RLT Industries

Price: $179.00

Availability:Usually ships in 1-2 business days

Product Description

During a siege of Stirling Castle in 1304, Edward Longshanks (Edward the first, King of England) ordered his engineers to make a giant trebuchet for the English army, named "Warwolf". With one blow, Warwolf leveled a section of wall, successfully concluding the siege of Stirling Castle. The Stirling Warwolf is generally thought of as the most powerful and most famous of all the trebuchets in history. With an authentic and historically accurate "squirrel-cage" winch mechanism, block-trolley system and working trigger, frame-ladder (for re-cocking), half-lap and mortise and tenon joinery, this is the most highly detailed and historically accurate trebuchet kit you can get. This kit has well over 140 pieces in it, plus two true scale-sized medieval warrior figures. At 1/20th scale, this machine stands 18 inches tall at the apex. The arm reaches to a height of 32 inches, and hurls its projectiles 40 to 60 feet! At 1/20 scale, that equates to about 800 to 1200 feet for a life-sized model. Even the projectiles (included) are scaled properly to represent 100 lb. and 350 lb. missiles. Highly detailed and computer cut for accuracy, this model is a joy to build. The detailed instructions are complete with diagrams, photos, tuning tips and even historical notes about trebuchets. Tools you will need include glue, a flat file and a 1/4" round or rat-tail file, clamps or rubber bands, household scissors and sandpaper to smooth any rough edges (there shouldn't be many.) The only other things you'll need to supply are a few hours of time, a little effort and some pennies for the counterweight bucket. The kit is made from high-quality white hardwood. It can easily be stained any color, but simple exposure to sunlight will turn the natural wood a rich golden-brown over time. We've put a lot of time and effort into making this kit as easy and complete as possible. We hope you'll enjoy building and operating it as much as we have!

Product Details

• Brand: RLT Industries
• Model: 10201

Features

• A highly detailed and historically accurate 1/20th scale trebuchet kit.
• Includes two true scale-sized medieval warrior figures.
• Authentic half-lap and mortise and tenon joinery.
• Over 140 hardwood pieces.
• It really works! Designed and made in the USA for better quality, better performance!

from wikiHow – The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Here is a guide to help you build your own desktop catapult, great for launching your balled up waste paper at the garbage can, giving your wastebasket hookshot arm a rest!

Steps

1. Buy the materials needed for the project. See the complete list under Things You’ll Need, later in the article. All the components for this project cost less than $15 (US), and there was no problem finding them.
2. Assemble your tools on a convenient workbench or other suitable location. The following were used in this assembly:
   • Circular saw
   • Battery and electric drills with bits
   • Sander
   • Hotmelt glue gun
   • Measuring tape
   • Hammer
   • Utility knife
3. Cut out the following required pieces. You will need:
   • 1 piece 3/4 plywood, 9X16 inches
   • 2- 1/2 inch diameter dowels, 12 inches long
   • 2- 1/2 inch diameter dowels, 18 inches long
   • 4- 1/4 inch diameter dowels, 18 inches long
   • 2- 1/4 inch diameter dowels, 16 inches long
   • 2- 3/8 inch diameter dowels, 7 inches long
   • 3- 3/8 inch diameter dowels, 18 inches long
   • various spacer blocks cut from the dowels listed above
   • various lengths of twine to lash dowels together while assembling. These lashings give the catapult its structural soundness.
4. Lay out plywood for holes required for the frame, as shown in photo. Mark the board lenthwise at 1 inch and 9 inches with a framing square or rule, then mark the center line, from which you measure out 3 inches either way for the holes.
5. Drill holes with a 15/32 inch bit to install uprights at the 9 inch mark. These holes are drilled perpendicular to the board.
6. Drill holes with the 15/32 inch bit at the one inch marks at a 50 degree angle to the board.
7. Drill one hole with a 5/16 inch bit in each 18 inch by 1/2 inch dowel at 6 inches and 1 inch from one end. These are the holes for the cross beams to fit into.
8. Drive the 18 inch by 1/2 inch dowels into the holes on the 9 inch marks. Drive the 12 inch by 1/2 inch dowels into the holes at the one inch marks, they should intersect the vertical dowels at their tops. Some carpenter’s wood glue applied to the ends of these dowels will help hold them securely in place.
9. Glue the dowels together where they meet at the top, then lash them with twine for support. Hot melt wood glue will save a lot of time on this step, and a dab of glue will help secure the lashing twine when it is knotted.
10. ‘Taper the ends of the 3/8 inch by 7 inch dowels with sandpaper so they fit snugly into the two holes at the top of the upright 1/2 inch dowels, then spread the uprights to fit them in. If these are not snug enough, glue them in place.
11. Lash the 1/4 inch by 18 inch dowels to the upright 1/2 inch dowels with twine, then hotmelt glue the twine to prevent it from slipping.
12. Assemble the two 3/8 inch by 18 inch dowels together, parallel, with space blocks between them cut from the same material. The spaces should be located so that the pivot point is an open space about 1/2 inch wide, which will be the location for it to be placed on the pivot beam. Leave another space about 1 1/2 inches long at the top end of this assembly (the launch arm). This is where the cup, or projectile holder will fit.
13. Spread the uprights sufficiently to install the launch arm, then replace the cross arms, gluing them into position.
14. Carve a suitable “cup”, or projectile holder from your scrap of 2X4 lumber, rough shaping it with a circular saw, then rotary rasps, and finally a sanding disk or sand paper. This can be carved by hand if you prefer, since it will be a fairly small piece of wood to hold securely while using your power tools for carving.
15. Lash the projectile cup into the notch at the end of the launch arms using the twine. You will want to be certain to lash this tightly and glue the lashings in place to avoid accidentally launching the complete cup when you fire the catapult.
16. Glue or lash guide pieces for the travel of the launch arm between the two cross beams, and from the base diagonally up the path of travel of your arm. These will keep the launch arm assembly in line while it swings during launch. If the arm and pivot bar are tight enough to keep the assembly in alignment, these pieces can be left off.
17. Fasten a spring at the bottom of the launch arm to a point on the opposite side of the base, using twine. Adjust the tension so that the launch arm can be drawn back to a horizontal position for loading and firing. Using a stronger spring will make your catapult more powerful, but this is not always desirable, since it causes a lot of stress on the moving components. Most hardware stores have an assortment of various springs, so you may need to experiment a bit here to find one that works for you.
18. Trim any loose strings, check all glue joints, and you should be ready to fire. Pull back the launch arm and release it from various draws to determine the range and power you are looking for. If none of the parts become loose or lose tension, you can launch similar size and weight projectiles with remarkable consistancy using this device.

Tips

• Be careful drilling the dowels, as an off-center hole will severely weaken the structure.
• Be careful with the hotmelt glue while attaching the winding lashings. The glue secures all lashings so they do not loosen with use.
• Be careful doing the catapult and good luck building it!

Warnings

• Be aware that this assembly can throw a projectile with significant force.
• Use power tools with care.
• Hotmelt glue can stick to skin, causing painful burns.
• Do not aim at people this could cause injury.

Things You’ll Need

• 2- 36 inch by 1/2 inch hardwood dowels
• 2- 36 inch by 3/8 inch hardwood dowels
• 4- 36 inch by 1/4 inch hardwood dowels
• 1 scrap piece of 2X4 pine lumber, 6 inches long
• 1 scrap, 3/4 inch plywood, cut to 9 inch by 16 inch
• 25 feet of hemp twine
• 1 coil spring
• hotmelt glue

Related wikiHows

• How to Make a Mini Catapult
• How to Make a Catapult out of a Mousetrap
• How to Make a Mini Catapult With a Binder
• How to make a Toothpick Slingshot
• How to make Homemade Weapons out of Everyday Objects

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Build a Desktop Catapult. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

The Big Book of Catapult and Trebuchet Plans!

From: RLT Industries, Inc.

Price: $21.33& eligible for FREE Super Saver Delivery.

Availability:Usually ships in 1 to 4 weeks

Product Description

This book is a compilation of step-by-step instructions for how to build nine different types of catapults and trebuchets, including plans for: A PVC Pipe Trebuchet, A Tabletop Trebuchet, The World Famous Floating Arm Trebuchet, The Historical WarWolf Trebuchet, A Rat-Trap Catapult, The Mangonel (or Onager), The Greek Ballista, a Petraria Arcatinus And the Scorpion II. Each set of instructions include dimensional drawings of all wooden parts, lists of required hardware and sources, an abundance of photos, diagrams and detailed descriptions of the assembly process. Additional sections include historical notes for the different types of machines, warnings and safety suggestions, tuning tips, notes on scaling, tools and techniques and additional notes on even more kinds of catapults.

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Features

• ISBN13: 9780977649730
• Condition: New
• Notes: BRAND NEW FROM PUBLISHER! 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Tracking provided on most orders. Buy with Confidence! Millions of books sold!

from wikiHow – The How to Manual That You Can Edit

A shed solves a lot of storage needs for outdoor tools and equipment. It is also a great place for work projects that won’t clutter up the garage. A shed like the one in this article is very basic and simple to construct. If you are looking for a more stylized shed, you should go through some of the “Handyman” type magazines.This shed is built on piers, as described in the wikiHow article How to Install Deck Piers. You could also build the shed on the ground by replacing the beams with 4″x6″ skids of pressure-treated lumber, or on precast concrete fence posts. The area needs to be flat and level. This project requires some knowledge and skill with a hammer and saw.

Steps

1. Foundation – click on image to enlarge
2. Floor Beams click on image to enlarge
3. Floor Joists – click on image to enlarge
4. Walls plan view – click on image to enlarge
5. Back Wall Elevation – click on image to enlarge
6. Front Wall Elevation – click on image to enlarge
7. Side Walls Elevation – click on image to enlarge
8. Rafters plan view – click on image to enlarge
9. Roof Sheeting – click on image to enlarge
10. Outside Walls – click on image to enlarge
11. Roofing – click on image to enlarge
12. plan view – click on image to enlarge]]
13. How To Build A Shed Video[1]

Tips

• Click on images to get the best view. Some information is lost in the thumbnail view.
• All framing is nailed with 16d nails, all sheeting is attached with 8d nails.
• If you plan to finish the inside, you should add an addition stud in each corner for a nailing surface.
• A ramp instead of stairs will allow you to move wheeled equipment in and out of the shed.
• There are several advertisers on this page with other plans.
• You may want to install a corrugated fiberglass roof for more light.

Warnings

• Before you begin construction check local laws:
• Your town’s building department if a permit is needed.
• Zoning if a shed is allowed.
• Setbacks from your property boundry.
• Please share your shed once you have built it!
• Don’t Nail your finger!

Related wikiHows

• How to Install Deck Piers
• How to Build a Loft Bed
• How to Build a Hot Tub Platform
• How to Make a Simple and Effective Garage Workbench
• How to Inexpensively Increase the Value of Your Home
• How to Build a Float

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Build a Shed. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

Check out these for more info on shed building:

41 Great Shed Designs
How To Build A Shed – Books

Build Your Own 10 X 8 GABLE UTILITY STORAGE SHED BUILDING HOUSE Pattern DIY PLANS; So Easy, Beginners Look Like Experts; PDF Download Version so you can get it NOW!

From: WoodPatternExpert

Price: $9.98

Availability:

Product Description

This is a complete SET OF PLANS for my favorite 10’ WIDE by 8’ DEEP CLASSIC GABLE STORAGE SHED. Not available in any store!!!
The Shed Upon Completion features:
1) Attractive and decorative Design.
2) Step by Step and easy directions with diagrams for every step.
3) Level, Sturdy, and Strong Design that withstands tough weather.
4) Blueprint like patterns; Larger Diagrams for those important Steps.
5) 5’ Wide Double Doors and Ramp; allowing one to park a lawn mower inside it!
6) 7’ Walls with 10’ Peak; the most preferred height for air vitalization and eye appeal.
7) Complete Materials List & Pattern Dimensions that use the least $ of bldg. material!
8) Designed by an Experienced Expert Wood Worker with over 20 years of experience!!
9) Continued Technical Support from Me “WoodPatternExpert”; 20 Years of Experience!
My instructions with easy to follow patterns and directions are designed as a construction project for the beginner woodworker. Extensive attention is given to speed and ease of construction, with a minimum and choice of tools. A great Shed can be built with just a skill saw, hammer, nail-set, level, hand saw, chalk line, drill, and shovel. Directions are aimed at the beginner woodworker, but should not bore even an experienced carpenter.
WARNING: Everyone Will Love This Classic Gable Storage Shed Design. Just about everyone who sees it will want you to build one or more, for them. (That's the reason I decided to write these plans.) Unlike most plans out there, you will be able to understand these! I have looked at others and I guarantee they are not as good as my plans!
The plan features:
• 50 pages containing very detailed, step by step instructions.
• Each step includes diagrams and or photographs to assist in the construction process.
• 54 Patterns; One for each piece that makes construction so easy a “caveman could do it”!
• Can be built entirely from any wood of your choice.
• Tips, Tricks and Notes that allow you to cut without error the first time.
• Can be built with just basic tools.
• This project plan is designed for the beginner woodworker, but should not bore even the most experienced carpenter.

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Koi ponds

Koi ponds are usually part of a landscape and can be designed specifically to promote health and growth of the Koi.

The architecture of the koi pond can have a great effect on the health and wellbeing of the koi.  For many pond owners across the world, keeping koi fish is seen as a wonderful and enjoyable thing to do.

I’ve been a witness to koi that make beautiful ornamental displays and certainly create a talking point for visitors to the home.  Even still, it is important to understand that there is a lot of work and effort involved in making a koi pond.

If your like many home owners having a koi pond in your back yard is an extravagant and soothing feeling.  Learn how to build a koi pond now.

You might be interested in these:

“The Complete And Easy Guide To Koi Fish Pond Construction“ Build Your Own Back Yard Koi Fish Pond That Will Be The Envy Of Everyone!

How To Build A Pond
Fontaine Koi Pond Glass Vessel Bathroom Sink – FSA-VS-PS6818
The Water Gardner’s Bible

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Learn how to build your own pond.  If you’ve always wanted a backyard pond, or ever wanted to build one you’re not alone.  Hundreds of thousands of people already have them and thousands more are installing them every year. Why all the fuss over a water-filled hole? I know people who ask this question all the time.

It’s really quite beautiful and can be therapeutic for some folks.

Apparently schools of fish and gurgling waterfalls are inherently appealing. Also, with the growing popularity of  “water gardening,” many people look at their ponds as an interesting, ongoing project.  So if your a big Do It Yourselfer and this seems like something your ready to take on, learn how to build your own pond.

Also Check Out:

How to Build Ponds and Waterfalls and Much More...: The Complete Guide

From: Voyageur Press (MN)

Price: $14.95

Availability:

Product Description

How to Build Ponds and Waterfalls and Much More... was written with the consumer in mind: it's a show and tell presentation of everything needed to build spectacular water gardens. Jeffrey Reid proves that knowing the correct steps and using the right product for the job practically guarantees success. The methods shown in these chapters are proven, and have been taught to thousands of do-it-yourselfers.

In an easy-to-read and easy-to-understand format, this book shows readers how to build ponds and waterfalls, as well as providing information about Koi fish, submersible pumps, water lilies, water features, water garden designs, UV lights, rock placement, filter systems, pond fish, marginal plants, preformed ponds, excavating, pond liners, plumbing, and landscaping.

Adding a pond or waterfall to your landscape can be very rewarding. "How to Build Ponds and Waterfalls and Much More..." ensures it will also be successful.

Product Details

• Brand: Tetra Pond
• Model:

Features

• Tetra Pond
• 16010
• Pond Accessories