Crossbow

The Crossbow

The crossbow is the second most-used missile weapon. Its destructive power is even higher than that of the bow. However, this comes at the price that the crossbow is very complicated to use, and therefore only agile warriors like bards can use it to great effect. Therefore, it's no wonder that the most famous crossbow user is Iolo Fitzowen.

A crossbow can either use normal bolts or the enhanced and more destructive magic bolts.

According to Vetron's Guide to Weapons and Armour, the crossbow has a "10" effectiveness rating.

History

The crossbow appeared as early as Ultima IV, and has since then stayed a constant. Its disappearance in Ultima IX is therefore even stranger.

Also, a second type of crossbow, the triple crossbow appeared in Ultima VI.

Lore

Now here is a real missile weapon. The impact of the crossbow will stop a rampaging troll. The crossbow is traditionally made of mahogany with carved maple veneer on the sides depicting Lord British's device, the Silver Serpent. A favorite among Bards for the singing of the crossbow's string.

- from The History of Britannia (Ultima IV)

Made from strong and resilient yew, bows, and their stronger counterparts, crossbows, make formidable long-range weapons. Be aware, however, that one engaged in hand-to-hand combat is unlikely to be able to load such a weapon, much less shoot it.

- from Book of Lore (Ultima V)

Bows and crossbows are capable of firing with tremendous force, but they require use of both hands and cannot be used effectively at point blank range.

- from Compendium (Ultima VI)