Build Your Own Wooden Ballista Kit
Create your own model of the ancient Roman missile weapon.
Videos
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Lay siege to thine enemies with this DIY replica of the ancient Roman ballista.
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With the help of wood glue and a pair of scissors, you can construct your Ballista in a matter of hours.
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Full-size Ballistae can shoot over 500 yards. Your miniature replica will shoot over 30 feet.
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Simply raise or lower the upper frame to adjust the trajectory of your shots.
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Multiple views of your majestic Ballista.
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Watch video for: DIY Ballista Kit
Overview
Create a realistic and working replica of an ancient roman missile launcher with the DIY Ballista Kit.
The torsion spring technology invented thousands of years ago still works flawlessly in creating highly accurate shots over long distances. Fire the included ammunition (known as bolts) over 30 feet.
This high quality kit features laser-cut parts and full-color illustrated instructions to ensure a fun building experience. Ages 10+.
For people who like:
Features & specs
- Dimensions (of completed Ballista): 8" x 6" x 6"
- Fires more than 30 feet
- Build time: approximately 2 hours (excluding glue dry time)
- Laser-cut wooden parts
- Requires only glue and scissors
- Ages 10+ (adult supervision recommended under 12 years)
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Build your own ancient Roman missile launcher
The DIY Ballista Kit allows you to create your very own Roman Ballista. This ancient missile weapon derives its power from torsion spring technology which allows large projectiles to be shot long distances with stunning accuracy.
This do-it-yourself kit includes all of the pieces necessary to create your own replica ballista. Despite being only eight inches long, it can easily fire its ammo over 30 feet.
Lay siege to thine enemies with this DIY replica of the ancient Roman ballista.
Excellent instructions make building a blast!
The Ballista Kit is made almost exclusively from laser-cut wood. This highly precise method of cutting ensures pieces fit together snugly and easily. Plus, full-color, detailed, and easy-to-follow instructions guarantee a frustration-free building experience.
The approximate build time for the kit is under two hours. However, a few steps require allowing glue to dry, so you may want to allow yourself a few evenings for complete construction.
In addition to the materials provided, you will only need a pair of scissors and wood glue to build your own awesome replica of an ancient missile launcher / sniper rifle.
With the help of wood glue and a pair of scissors, you can construct your Ballista in a matter of hours.
Highly accurate replica shoots over 30 feet
Ballistae are known for being acutely accurate. Ancient accounts reference ballista being able to take out individual soldiers. Full-size ballistae had a maximum range of over 500 yards (460 meters). That's intense!
The replica ballista you'll be creating can shoot its ammo (3 wooden missiles are included) over 30 feet.
Full-size Ballistae can shoot over 500 yards. Your miniature replica will shoot over 30 feet.
Easily adjust the trajectory of your shots
While catapults and trebuchets can shoot heavier objects, modifying the course of your projectile is a bit more laborious. Not so with this ballista! Simply raise or lower the upper frame (thanks to the clever pivot axle) to line up your shot and then pull the trigger release to fire.
Simply raise or lower the upper frame to adjust the trajectory of your shots.
The glory that is the Ballista, from multiple angles!
Once complete, your Ballista will shoot far and straight and appear menacing to all who gaze upon her. Enjoy!
Multiple views of your majestic Ballista.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Why do some pieces have dark edges?
Answer: This is due to the laser-cutting process. We think it looks cool. If it bothers you, you could always stain the wood prior to construction.
Question: How far does it shoot?
Answer: The Ballista Kit will shoot its provided ammunition over 30 feet.
Question: Can I use ______ as ammo in the Ballista?
Answer: We can only officially recommend using the included "bolts". That being said, we are not the Ballista police. We're not going to kick down the door to your house if you tried to use, oh, I don't know, Spitballs, BuckyBalls, BuckyCubes, Jelly Beans, or AAA batteries — actually, batteries could be dangerous. Don't use those. Point being, have fun and be safe. Now, buy, buy, buy!
Burning Questions: You Ask and We Answer
Burning Questions: You ask and we answer!
Your questions that have been answered by the Vat19.com staff:
Do your spitballs work on the Wooden Ballista or not?
Yes, Spitballs will work.
Would it be possible to fire stuff like gummy bears and small marshmellows?
Sure, just as long as they're small enough to fit through the opening.
What glue should i use?
We strongly recommend using wood glue.
Do you have to tie the string? If so, is there a special knot?
It's more of a loop than a tie. You don't need to be an Eagle Scout to put the DIY Ballista together.
What kind of wood is used?
The DIY Wooden Ballista is made of pine wood.
how should i know it won't break easily?
We tested this product ourselves and did not experience any quality issues. If you build it and use it properly, your ballista should not break.
Is there extra ammo?
We do not sell additional ammunition. Technically speaking you can launch anything small enough to fit through the end of the ballista.
Uumm about how long will this last before
It well breaks?
If you treat it well, your ballista should last for a vey long time.
What kind of glue do you need for this project?
When working with wood I've always found that wood glue works best.
Are these from the same company that makes the catapult and trebuchet?
The DIY Ballista is actually from a different manufacturer, however the quality is still just as superb.
Why did you include DIY in the name I mean everyone know that its do it yourself?
Some people might not understand that the product is a model and might expect to receive a finished product. We just like to cover all of our bases.
Does the bullet hurt when shot at?
The bolt is completely harmless, but you should still avoid shooting people in the face or eyes.
Scissors?
Scissors are required for a small portion of the construction process.
Can you hold it in your hand like a crossbow?
Yes you can.
i have 2 questions .1 how many projectiles does it come with .2 can you put in more than one projectile
Each kit comes with 3 projectiles. You could load more than one at once if you really wanted to.
Does it being only 6 ounces mean you could put it on the Levitron Revolution?
6 ounces is less than 12 ounces, so yes!
what would you do if the stretchy thing breaks?
Unfortunately we do not sell replacement parts. You could probably use a similar string or strip of leather.
Can it hurt someone?
Only if you shot them in the eye or something.
how much does it weigh?
The Mini Ballista Kit weighs around 6 ounces.
Would it hurt if u got hit with one? I mean one of the bullet things.
Maybe if it hit you in the face, but apart from that the bolts aren't really capable of hurting you.
Can It shoot push pin or tacs or nerd darts?
A ballista can shoot anything that is small enough to fit through the hole at the end of the track.
Can you shoot marshmallows ?
Perhaps very small ones. You can launch anything small enough to fit through the hole at the end of the ballista.
Where can i get the projectiles if I lose all of them?
We do not sell replacements, but keep in mind that you can fire pretty much anything as long as it fits through the hole.
Is there a way to order spare parts?
Sorry, no can do. We do not carry or sell replacement parts.
On a scale of 1to10 how hard is it to build
I'm not sure what qualifies as a 1 or a 10 on your scale but this project is not difficult to complete. Maybe a 3 or so?
Could I use Spitballs
Sure! Just make sure that they're small enough to fit through the hole.
What wood is the ballista made out of?
The DIY Wooden Ballista is made of pine wood.
Can you shoot bb's through the ballista
BBs are too small to be fired effectively.
Can you shoot a pencil?
You can! This is also an excellent opportunity to discuss safe, non-eyeball destroying ammunition choices for the DIY Wooden Balista.
Will you possibly sell replacement ammo in the future?
We do not have plans to carry replacement ammo. You'll just have to be careful not to lose them!
Lol Ballista Police xD here is my question. Which would be better the recommended wood glue or Gorilla glue?
I would recommend wood glue from Gorilla. Why settle for anything less than the best when it comes to epoxies and adhesives?
Could I use spitballs with it?
Absolutely!
2 questions: 1) How long does it take to build? 2) Could marbles possibly fit ? (I'm not going to shoot anyone :D!) I wanna destroy things though!!! From Kt
Marbles may fit (though not the larger "shooter" marbles). Total construction time takes approximately 2 hours (excluding glue dry time).
How hard is it to aim?
Not hard at all. Simply point it in the direction you want to fire and release the bow!
How long on a scale of 1 to 10 would you say it is to build?
We include the approximate build time at the top of the page in the Features and Specs section. On average it takes about 2 hours to assemble (excluding glue dry time).
How far does the ballista need to be for it to hurt?
Generally speaking the closer it is the more harm it will inflict since the projectile isn't given time to lose its momentum. With that being said, the DIY Ballista isn't meant to hurt people.
Will hot glue work just as well form assembly?
We highly recommend using wood glue. Hot glue doesn't hold nearly as strongly.
What type of glue do I use? Hot glue? Wood glue?
We find that wood glue works best, being that the ballista is made of wood.
What are the measurements for all the wood pieces?
We do not have individual measurements for each piece, nor do we have the means to measure them for you. The dimensions of the final product are 8" x 6" x 6".
What is the mass of one of the incuded bolts?
Only a few grams. They're just small pieces of wood.
Could I shoot cheetos?
You can shoot pretty much anything that will fit through the hole, actually. You don't need our permission.
Why was there a paper clip in the kit?
The paperclip is included so that it may be used as a tool to help thread the cords.
Would normal runny glue work?
Probably not. Wood glue is much stronger than Elmer's Glue.
Can you fire spitballs out of the ballista?
Only if you grow them to the appropriate size.
Do you need a hot glue gun or regular glue?
Simple wood glue should do the trick. It can be purchased in most hardware and art stores.
How big is the bullet ?
The bolts are 1.25" long.
How big is it?
The dimensions of the completed Ballista are: 8" x 6" x 6"
Can I shoot gummy bears through the hole?
Not reliably. Gummy bears are sticky and might not slide through the barrel of the ballista as well as rigid projectiles.
What happens if it breaks and we cannot fix it?
Then you're just out of luck, I'm afraid. I can't think of too many situations where the Wooden Ballista would break easily.
What type of glue do you recommend: Wood Glue, Elmer's Glue, Super Glue???
We recommend wood glue.
sweet cross-promo with the piperoid robots!
Thanks! Piperoids make for great target practice.
Can I use hot glue?
You can but we strongly recommend using wood glue since it creates a stronger bond.
Why does the cup make a sound like porcelin when the projectile hit the obviously plastic cup?
Can you shoot anything that is more than 2 ounces such as weights that are small enough to fit through the opening?
I'm sure you could. We've fired pens, pencils, and even a tiny lightsaber (which is perfectly fine for a 30 year old to have in his car!).
Do you ship to North Korea?
We do not. Sorry!
Can the bullets rip through A4 (printer)paper?
Probably not. They aren't being shot with that much force.
This is just a random question...but who is the voice in all of the videos? what does he look like? he sounds pretty awesome!!!
That's our boss, Jamie. I'm pretty sure you've seen him before.
is it possible to launch paintballs? I wont do it but just wondering hehe...
It may be possible, but I don't think that the DIY Ballista is capable of launching a paintball hard enough for it to break.
I thought ballistas fired giant arrows. How come this one has bullets?
Ballistae were used to fire bolts as well as stone shot. We don't want anyone to get hurt, so we thought that the little wooden bolts were a bit safer.
Is a bullet can rip a piece of paper?
A very thin piece of paper, perhaps. The bolts are very safe to use.
i noticed the tension is built from twisted strings. if you twist them more than that will it be stronger?
It's possible, though you don't want to over-twist them and cause them to break.
Is this better than the catapult and the trebuchet?
It's neither better nor worse since different siege weapons had different uses. It'd be a bit like comparing a bunker busting bomb to an M16.
What type of rope did you use? What is the rope made out of?
The kit comes with a length of nylon string but you're really able to use any kind of string you want as long as it isn't elastic.
Could I a attach laser pointer for accuracy?
You are welcome to do whatever you like. It's your project!
How can I choose a product from the order form?
Are you referring to our mail-in order form? If so, simply check the products you want or write them down individually on a separate sheet of paper. You don't have to print off the entire list of products.
If I paint it will it get stuck or ruin it? Would it be ok?? or would it just get stuck be ruined or damage it and if I n what paint should I use?
If you're going to paint your Ballista, or any other item with moving parts, make sure you paint the parts individually first before assembling them.
Ballistas used large bolts shaped differently from your projectiles. Would you recommend making and using carved bolts?
You could but a pencil would be easier to acquire.
Are you able to build a full sized one off the model? Not to harm anyone but like to shoot pumkins or something like that?
I don't see why not. The only difference between this ballista and those used centuries ago is the size. The mechanics of the device and the physics which it uses haven't changed at all.
Can I shoot pens with these?
Yep! You can shoot pretty much anything small enough to fit through the hole at the end of the track.
Can I shoot flaming missells? just wondering
Probably, but we certainly don't recommend trying. It's at this point I'd like to remind everyone that we're not responsible for infernos caused by flaming bolts.
Does super glue work better than wood glue?
No.
Can you use an elastic band instead of the string? i need more power
An elastic band would actually provide less power in this situation.
What time period is this from?
Antiquity. The ancient Greeks used the Ballista as early as 400BCE.
can i paint my bullets any color to see it better in grass etc. If not what else can i use that is very easy to see in grass?
You can paint the projectiles if need be.
Would this be a good present for father's day?
This item contains minor wood working, ancient history, and warfare. I don't think you'll find a more appropriate Father's Day gift.
Can you use super glue or does it have to be only wood glue?
Wood glue works best and is not too terribly hard to find or work with.
Would a glue gun work? Or does it have to be wood glue
We strongly recommend wood glue. Fortunately for you, glue gun wood glue stick are widely available at most art supply stores.
Could you take/cut off the stand and/or axle and just use this handheld?
We wouldn't recommend cutting any pieces off. Besides, I think a desktop ballista is way more impressive than a tiny crossbow.
How far will it shoot?
The Ballista Kit will shoot its provided ammunition over 30 feet.
Is there a way to order more "bolts"?
We do not have plans for a missile refill kit, but you can use nearly any similarly sized projectile.
Can I use this as a trap?
It's more of a siege weapon. A tiny, awesome one.
What are the measurement for the wood pieces?
We don't have the precise measurements for each individual piece. The dimensions of the completed ballista are 8" x 6" x 6".
Do you deliver in India? And can I pay it in rupees?
Yes, we ship internationally. No, you cannot pay with your local currency. We do not accept cash of any kind, however we will automatically charge the correct amount to your credit card when you check out online.
Can you shoot spitballs?
Sure. Technically speaking you can shoot anything that fits through the opening at the business end of the ballista.
If the rubber band breaks, what will I do?
There are no rubber bands to break. The DIY Ballista, just like its full-size counterpart, uses tension and ropes to fire projectiles. Should one of the ropes break you could probably find a similar replacement at a hobby store.
i am wanting to make this product for a social studies project. my teacher want to know how long it will take to deliver and if the bolts hurt. thank you
Not unless you shoot someone in the eye or something. The cost of shipping, as well as the estimated arrival time, will depend entirely on the shipping method you choose when you check out online. You can click the “Shipping Calculator” link near the top of the product page for shipping quotes.
What is it powered by?
Tension. There's actually a wealth of information on how ancient siege weapons, including ballistas and onagers, work online.
Are the instructions clear enough to ensure the parts you need scissors for doesn't ruin the entire project?
The instructions are very clear. The manufacturer has gone out of their way to make them as easy to follow as possible.
can you shorten any of the cords to make it a stronger shot
No, the cords cannot be shortened and still operate properly.
What kind of glue should be used?
Wood glue would be your best bet.
Could you fire poppits with this thing? There harmless anyways...
Sure, but I don't know if they'll be travelling fast enough to actually pop.
The red cup in the video, was it the melemene cup?
Yep! A regular Solo cup would have definitely been knocked over.
How many P.S.I. of presser does it have ?
The amount of force for a machine like this would not be measured in PSI. FPS would be a more useful measurement, which I can tell you is fairly low.
I believe that the "3/4 view" is actually called an isometric view.
An isometric view is a term used to describe a projection of a 3D image in a 2D plane. The term is commonly used in reference to the game genre, but in photography, 3/4 is the generally accepted term.
Don`t get me wrong i love it! but i do not not know if it's going to be a powerful enough of a weapon to knock down cans and other objects. That said is it powerful enough to knock down more heavy duty objects such as bottles?
It could possibly knock down bottles, but you would probably need to be pretty close to the bottles.
Why mustn't I point it at people or pets?
We really shouldn't have to explain why it's a bad idea to point any sort of projectile at people and pets.
What if you lost all of them? Are you selling replacements?
Sorry, we do not sell replacement ammo for the Ballista Kit.
Exactly where in U.S.A is the shop?
We don't have any physical shops or stores, but our office and warehouse are located in St. Louis, MO.
can you use sun flower seeds to shoot in stead of the bullets?
I suppose it's possible. It's always fun to play with your food!
Is this Ballista based off of a Crossbow? Or it's just a Giant crossbow shooting missiles
The ballista predates handheld crossbows by many hundreds of years. They both work in similar fashions however.
What type off wood is it made from? Pine?
The DIY Wooden Ballista is made of pine wood.
does it ship to Guam?
Yes, we are able to ship to Guam.
Do you ship to Bahrain ?
Yes, we do offer shipping to Bahrain.
What is the estimated build time?
It takes approximately 2 hours (excluding drying time) to assemble the Ballista. You may want to allow up to 45 minutes for the wood glue to dry.
Will you sell extra ammunition for this?
No, but you can use almost any object small enough to fit through the opening.
Is this made by the same guys who do the other medieval weapons kits or the r/c dinosaurs?
The DIY Ballista is actually from a different manufacturer, however the quality is still just as superb.
Can you fire other small objects from it?
Yes, just be careful!
How big is the real ballista?!?
Ballistas were enormous war machines and were usually much larger than a man.
How long will it last?
There is no set limit on the number of times you can use the DIY Ballista.
Can I use pape Spitballs (Spitballs that you sell) instead of included ammos?
Yes, but you'll have to make sure they are the right size.
do you know where to buy just those strings if not do you know what type and size they are so i can find them
Sorry, but the strings are not sold separately. You might be able to find something similar at a craft store, however.
Can I use nails?(when shooting paper or foam
You can theoretically launch whatever you want as long as it fits through the hole at the end of the track.
Does it include the glue?
No, you will need to purchase or borrow your own wood glue.
Did he really shoot it into the cup from that distance, and if so how many shots did it take?
Yep! It took a few shots, but he's a natural marksman.
How much to ship to South Korea?
The cost of shipping, as well as delivery times, will vary depending on the shipping method you choose at checkout. For shipping estimates, simply click the "Calculate Shipping" link above the green "Add to Cart" button near the top of any product page.
Will you sell a package of ammo? I'm known for losing things and these bullets are really small.
No, but you can use virtually any small items found around the house. Pencils work well.
Does it shoot 30 feet up(in the sky)!?!?
If you aim it straight up!
Do the bolts break easily if you shot it at a brick wall or something like that? Or are they tough :D?
They're solid pieces of wood, so I'd say they're pretty durable.
I am working in an Engineering Class and I'm wondering about creating a Ballista By 24" By 24" and the class requirement is to shoot a ping-pong ball. Is it Possible?
We're sure that it's possible to make such a thing, but we can't make it for you.
How much time will it take to ship in India?
Shipping costs and arrival times will depend entirely on the method of shipping you choose at checkout. You can also use the "Calculate Shipping" option near the top of the page.
what if you order it on a friday?
If you place an order after 2pm CT on a Friday, your package will be shipped out on the following business day (usually Monday).
Does a Ballista really use a large bullet-like shape in the roman/middle ages? Or it really use a giant arrow since it was shaped like a crossbow?
Bow -> Crossbow -> Ballista?
The actual ballista used several different types of projectile throughout the ages, from large bolts to smaller cannon-ball shaped objects.
WILL U GUYS EVER PUT A vid. UP 4 THIS
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Would a bullet work? (if not, would it be possible to shape it so it would?)
You could launch a small bullet, but there's no way for the Ballista to actually "fire" a bullet.
Can it be held in your hand? Like a crossbow.
I think you're overestimating the size of the DIY Wooden Ballista. You can hold it in your hand, but not like a crossbow. More accurately, you'd be holding it in the palm of your hand.
What do you think will win in an all out battle, the trebuchet, the catapult, or the ballista?
It depends on the target. The trebuchet was designed specifically for long range siege attacks and was particularly devastating to structures such as walls and houses. Catapults are mid-range siege weapons, and ballistas were typically used against personnel.
Is this wood untreated so I could paint on it?
You are correct! You can paint your ballista as long as you remember to paint the pieces individually to prevent them sticking together.
Do you plan on selling/making a wooden crossbow?
We do not, but you never know what the future may hold.
In an open area without people, would it be dangerous or awesome firing fire crackers?
It would be undeniably awesome, but it would also be exceedingly dangerous. Please do not attempt to launch fire crackers.
Will it hurt if you shoot it at someone?
Not really, unless you shot them in the face. The bolts are fairly harmless.
How long will it take to assemble? Dry?
It takes approximately 2 hours (excluding drying time) to assemble the Ballista. You may want to allow up to 45 minutes for the wood glue to dry.
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