Ep 7. Arbalest Crossbow

In episode 7 of Master of Arms season 1, titled “Arbalest Crossbow,” the contestants are tasked with creating a powerful and accurate medieval crossbow known as the arbalest. The crossbow was invented during the Middle Ages and became a popular weapon among the armies of Europe.

The episode begins with host Ashley Hlebinsky introducing the contestants to the challenge. The weapon they will be creating is based on a design from the 15th century, which they have to replicate as closely as possible. The arbalest crossbow was used for both hunting and warfare and was known for its accuracy and power. Its design is relatively simple, but requires precision and attention to detail.

The contestants are split into teams of two, with each team given three days to complete their crossbow. They will be judged on both functionality and accuracy, with a focus on the weapon’s ability to hit a bulls-eye at 60 yards. The teams get to work, with each member taking on different aspects of the project. Some work on the stock, while others focus on the bow or trigger mechanism.

As the days progress, the teams encounter a variety of challenges. One team struggles to get their stock to fit properly, while another encounters problems with the trigger mechanism. The contestants must constantly problem-solve and make adjustments to ensure their weapon will be functional and precise.

One interesting aspect of this episode is the historical background that is provided. The contestants learn about the history of the arbalest crossbow, including how it was used in warfare and how it evolved over time. They visit a museum to see a collection of historical crossbows and learn about the different components and materials used in their construction.

Another important aspect of the challenge is safety. The contestants are reminded throughout the episode of the dangers of working with such a powerful weapon and are instructed to take all necessary precautions. This adds a level of tension to the episode, as the viewers are constantly aware of the potential risks involved.

Finally, the moment of truth arrives – the weapons are put to the test. The contestants take turns shooting their arbalest crossbows at a target, with judges Ashley Hlebinsky and Nicholas Irving (a former Special Operations sniper) assessing their accuracy and power. Some weapons perform better than others, but all of them are impressive feats of craftsmanship.

At the end of the episode, the winning team is announced and the losing team is sent home. The winning team’s arbalest crossbow is put to the ultimate test – a live hunt. The contestants are taken to a ranch where they have the opportunity to go deer hunting with their newly created weapon. This is a fitting conclusion to the episode, as it showcases the true capabilities of the arbalest crossbow both as a weapon and a hunting tool.

Overall, episode 7 of Master of Arms season 1 is an exciting and informative look at the history and craftsmanship behind the medieval arbalest crossbow. The contestants face a challenging task but rise to the occasion, creating impressive weapons that are a testament to their skills and creativity. Viewers are sure to be entertained and fascinated by this episode.