Types of Trebuchets Three Types of Trebuchets and Their Motive Force
There are three historical types of trebuchets:
the traction trebuchet, the fixed counterweight trebuchet, and the swinging,
or hinged, counterweight trebuchet, using two types of motive force: man
power and gravity.
Man Powered Trebuchet
Traction Trebuchet
Side view of a man powered traction trebuchet in the
cocked position and ready for employment against archers in a fortification.
Gravity Powered Trebuchets
Fixed Counterweight Trebuchet
Side view of a fixed counterweight trebuchet with
wheels in the cocked position ready for firing.
Hinged Counterweight Trebuchet
Side view of a hinged counterweight trebuchet being
wound down into the cocked position using a wheel while archers provide
covering fire for the trebuchet crew.
