The ballista was a powerful weapon – originally invented by the Greeks over 2000 years ago and widely used by the Romans in battles and sieges. Using the stored energy in twisted sinew the ballista helped the Roman Empire take on and conquer countries all over Europe!Based on drawings and written records (but not here-say – we only use facts in our historical kits!), this Ballista re-creates the way in which torsion powered weapons worked, and can fire the small wooden projectiles over 15 feet! Designed in Canada! Recommended for ages 14+. While the kit can be made by people younger than 14, (we think kids aged 9+ have the skills) it does launch a projectile, so is rated 14+. If used by people under 14, please make sure there is parental supervision for the launching! Pathfinders is a Canadian company dedicated to creating compelling, innovative, wooden science kits that challenge children of all ages to explore the link between science, design, and technology in the world around us. They aim to help the student integrate knowledge gained from constructing the kits by providing links to educational resources to enhance their understanding of math and science as well as historical principles. Their chief educator, Derek Wulff, is a BC certified teacher who has been teaching grades K to 10 for the past 13 years. Derek designs all of the kits produced at Pathfinders for educational and recreational use. He spends time with kids in schools, making and using the kits to see how well they deliver curriculum for teachers, and to make sure they are engaging and appropriate for both fun play and educational aspects. They are an environmentally friendly company and use recyclable materials, natural, untreated wood, and local resources and production as much as possible. All of their kits are tested to make sure they are 100% kid and pet safe! They like to work with other local companies too. Their manufacturer in Taiwan is a local family-run factory, and most of the retail stores they sell to are small businesses and neighbourhood toy stores. Recommended for ages 9+ with parental supervision.
