Merit Class: Handling and using Crossbows
Class Teacher:
Erik Arkay, Master
Class Attendance:
Mela Arkay, Master
Hoagie, Neophyte
Regdar, Neophyte
Delcarakdur, Neophyte
Dalamar, Neophyte
Faden Wildheart, Neophyte
Grief, Neophyte
Yesterday eve saw the very first Arkay's Archery Guild merit class! The Guild had been growing quite rapidly over the last few days and several of the Neophytes had already completed their Novice-task. Given the lack of exercises most of the attendees had, I decided to hold a mostly theoretical class.
Repeater Crossbow
Explaining the dangers of the Repeating Crossbow
The repeating Crossbow holds a magazine that can contain up to twenty individual bolts. The Crossbow arms the crossbow and loads a bolt automatically allowing you to rapidly shoot consecutive shots. It's major downsides are the lack of accuracy and power. This weapon is the preferred weapon for Neophytes and Novices. Without needing to arm or load the crossbow the new archer can concentrate on aiming and shooting. We took an in depth look at the different parts and everyone got to hold and familiarise themselves with the weapon.
Heavy Crossbow
A demonstration of the awesome power!
After the thorough examination of the Repeater we moved on to the Heavy Crossbow, otherwise called Big Betsy or the Mauler. This crossbow packs quite a wallop, but it takes some considerable training and muscle to operate it. Too heavy to wield comfortably on a battlefield, these crossbows are generally used for their raw power. They're commonly used to unsaddle an upcoming cavalrycharge. In close quarters they're very difficult to use effectively but have been enhanced with a pike. When fighting at close range you're better off using the thing as a makeshift pike or club.
Battle Crossbow
Grief demonstrates the versatility and power of the Battle Crossbow
The Battle Crossbow is the most versatile weapon in the arsenal of the Archer. It's light, yet sufficient powerful to pierce armour. In front of the crossbow is a latch that allows you to configure the crossbow for speed and power or for accuracy. The accuracy of the weapon gives a skilled archer the ability to inflict precision and mortal wounds! When configured for speed and power the crossbow has been known to pierce armour and shock the target.
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