Leonardo Da Vinci catapult

Leonardo da Vinci Catapult: Build a Working Piece of Engineering History

Bring one of Leonardo da Vinci's ideas off the drawing board with this wooden catapult kit from Pathfinders. Assemble the pre-cut, pre-drilled wooden pieces into an adjustable working model, explore stored energy and ratchets, then give your finished creation a place on display.

Catapults have roots in the Ancient Greek and Roman eras and became prominent during the Middle Ages. Leonardo developed innovative war machines that built upon traditional medieval designs, including this catapult design from 1485. This kit recreates that design as a hands-on construction project.

What's Inside

• Pre-cut and pre-drilled wooden pieces to assemble the catapult.
• Easy-to-follow assembly instructions.

Why Kids (and Parents) Love It

• Build something that works: the finished catapult is a working re-creation, not just a static model.
• See mechanics in action: explore how stored energy and ratchets play a part in the mechanism.
• Connect history with making: assembling the model gives Leonardo's 1485 design a tangible form.
• Keep exploring after assembly: the adjustable catapult invites observation and experimentation.
• A project worth displaying: the completed wooden model makes a showpiece when not in use.

Good to Know Before You Buy

• This is a construction kit and requires assembly; it is not supplied as a finished catapult.
• The assembled model measures 16 cm wide, 45 cm long and 42 cm high, so allow room for building and display.
• Follow the supplied assembly and operating instructions, including any safety warnings. Never aim a working catapult at people or animals.
• Check the manufacturer's packaging for recommended age and supervision guidance before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a working catapult or a display model?

It is a working re-creation of Leonardo da Vinci's catapult. It also makes a display piece when not in use.

Does the kit need to be assembled?

Yes. You assemble it from pre-cut and pre-drilled wooden pieces, following the included instructions.

What can we learn from it?

The model introduces stored energy and ratchets through a working mechanism, while connecting a practical building activity with engineering history.

Is the catapult adjustable?

Yes, the completed catapult is adjustable. Refer to the supplied instructions for how to set up and operate it.

How large is the finished model?

The assembled catapult measures 16 cm wide × 45 cm long × 42 cm high.

Who makes the kit, and whose design is it based on?

The kit is from Pathfinders and recreates Leonardo da Vinci's catapult design from 1485.

Would it suit someone who enjoys model building?

It is a gift option for someone interested in wooden construction projects, mechanical models or Leonardo's inventions. Check the manufacturer's recommended age before choosing it for a child.

Product Details

• Product: Leonardo da Vinci Catapult wooden kit.
• Brand: Pathfinders.
• Design: Leonardo da Vinci's catapult, 1485.
• Construction: Pre-cut and pre-drilled wooden pieces.
• Features: Working, adjustable catapult incorporating stored energy and ratchets.
• Instructions: Included.
• Assembled dimensions: 16 cm W × 45 cm L × 42 cm H.
• Packaging: Colour-printed cardboard.
• Packaging face: 25.5 cm × 19.5 cm.
• Packaging depth: 5.5 cm.
• Packaged weight: Approximately 450 g.
• SKU: 718122200016.