Slings and Arrows : The Science of Ancient Projectile Weapons

This book takes the main categories of ancient weapons – bows, boomerangs, spears, slings, and siege engines – and presents a detailed analysis of their history and development, answering questions about the physics, materials science, and engineering behind them, as well as their uses in hunting and warfare, and capabilities and drawbacks.

Using a unique blend of physics and history, this book explores the dynamics of ancient weapons within a historical context. The factors that influenced the development and usefulness of ancient weapons are manifold, from the materials available at the time and the technology needed to assemble them, to conditions in which they were used and their capabilities relative to other available weaponry. This book takes the main categories of ancient weapons – bows, boomerangs, spears, slings, and siege engines – and presents a detailed analysis of their history and development, answering questions about the physics, materials science, and engineering behind them, as well as their uses in hunting and warfare, and capabilities and drawbacks. This book is suitable for a general audience, with mathematical details included as appendices for readers who want to go deeper into the science. History enthusiasts will find many fascinating details which are not available elsewhere, whereas an archaeologist presented with an ancient sling or ballista will be able to estimate its performance. Physics and engineering teachers will find ideas for enrichment activities on mechanics and aerodynamics.