Leonardo Da Vinci Trebuchet

Build the Siege Engine That Launched Legends — Leonardo da Vinci’s Trebuchet in Real Wood

In the late 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci sketched a trebuchet design for the Duke of Milan — a fearsome counterweight siege engine capable of hurling projectiles with devastating force. That drawing, preserved in the Codex Atlanticus, is the inspiration for this kit. The Pathfinders Leonardo da Vinci Trebuchet Wooden Kit lets kids and teens build a working wooden replica of that very design — from natural untreated wood, with pre-cut parts, pegged joints for extra strength, and clay balls included so you can launch straight out of the box. It can hurl a clay ball over 4 metres. History has never been this much fun.

What’s Included

• ✅ Pre-cut natural wood and plywood parts — all pieces ready to assemble, no cutting required
• ✅ Pegged joints for extra strength — a more robust construction than standard snap-fit kits
• ✅ Clay balls included — ready to launch straight away
• ✅ Step-by-step instruction guide — clear, illustrated assembly instructions
• ✅ No batteries required — fully mechanical, gravity-powered launch
• ✅ By Pathfinders — a trusted name in quality wooden model kits

Why Kids and Teens Love It

• ✅ It launches over 4 metres — the trebuchet actually works, and watching your build hurl a clay ball across the garden is an unforgettable payoff
• ✅ Straight from the Codex Atlanticus — a genuine connection to one of history’s greatest minds, based on da Vinci’s actual 15th-century drawings
• ✅ Real wood, real craftsmanship — natural untreated wood and plywood with pegged joints give a quality feel that plastic kits simply can’t match
• ✅ Builds in about 1–2 hours — satisfying enough to feel like an achievement, quick enough to finish in a single session
• ✅ History, physics, and engineering in one — counterweight mechanics, medieval siege warfare, and Renaissance genius all come together in one build
• ✅ A display piece worth keeping — at 32cm long and 62cm high, the finished trebuchet is an impressive model to display on a shelf or desk

Good to Know Before You Buy

• Recommended age: 8+ (great for ages 8–10 and 10+)
• Brand: Pathfinders
• Kit type: Wooden model build kit — Leonardo da Vinci series
• Finished model size: 32cm (L) x 62cm (H)
• Launch distance: Over 4 metres with included clay balls
• Build time: Approximately 1–2 hours
• No batteries required — gravity-powered counterweight mechanism
• Adult involvement: Suitable for independent builders aged 10+; younger builders will benefit from adult support during assembly
• Also available: Other Pathfinders Leonardo da Vinci kits including the Bridge, Roman Catapult, Trojan Horse, and more

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it actually launch things?

Yes — the finished trebuchet is a fully working counterweight siege engine that can hurl the included clay balls over 4 metres. Always use in a safe open space and supervise younger children during launch.

What is the Codex Atlanticus?

The Codex Atlanticus is a 12-volume collection of Leonardo da Vinci’s drawings and writings, now held in Milan. It contains over 1,000 pages of sketches covering engineering, weapons, flying machines, and more — including the trebuchet design this kit is based on. It’s a great conversation starter and a genuine piece of history.

How long does it take to build?

The kit is designed to be completed in about 1–2 hours — making it a great single-session project. The pre-cut parts and clear instructions keep the build moving, and the pegged joints add strength without adding complexity.

Do I need glue or any extra tools?

The parts are pre-cut and the joints are pegged for strength. Wood glue may help secure some joints for a more permanent build — have a small amount of PVA or wood glue on hand if you want the finished model to be extra sturdy.

Is it a good gift?

Absolutely — it’s one of the best STEM gifts for kids who love history, building, and things that actually do something. The 4-metre launch range makes it genuinely exciting, and the da Vinci backstory gives it real educational depth. A brilliant choice for birthdays or Christmas for ages 8 and up.