Refers to a crossbow, including large mounted versions operated by multiple people. Historical weapon.
In medieval battles, the crossbow was an important weapon.
stone-dropping net apparatus
Historical defensive device: a net filled with stones placed atop a wall, released by cutting the net to drop stones on attackers. Rare, specialized term.
Can refer to a slingshot or a catapult. Less common than パチンコ for slingshot; context-dependent.
They set up stone-dropping nets on the castle walls to repel the enemy.
I remember playing with a slingshot as a child.
Standard kanji spelling; literally 'stone bow'.
Single-kanji form; less common and may be confused with other readings.
Compound of 石 (stone) and 弓 (bow). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the spelling is conventionally associated with the weapon.