95lb ancient crossbow shot faster than 960lb medieval

Interesting project. Where did you get the lock mechanisms? I have a couple machined out of steel and aluminum. They are nicely done, but my tests indicate that I don't think I can trust them for long with draw weights over 140 or so pounds.

I'm a big fan of working with the materials you have on hand. You said a couple of times how you aren't a craftsman, I'd say most of the craftsmen and women I know started out just like you- they have something they're interested in and they start working on it with what they know and that is how knowledge grows. I don't think there's such a thing as "just a Youtuber." Not a good one anyway. You have to bring something interesting to it.

Anyway, I think you'd find that, with some experience, hand tools like chisels are much better than power tools for lots of woodworking projects, especially if you don't have quite the right power tools for the job. They really don't take that much longer, either. I've found I can ruin a piece in a second with a power tool, but mistakes made with chisels or draw knives or rasps can usually be corrected as you go. Just sayin.

Gnome

I have a Han "action" that was machined (not cast) from of a very hard brass/bronze that has been used with 250# prods with no problems.

thanks, are you selling any? im interested to make more