This is a fun snowball launcher for snowball fights  that will bring victory to you!

⭐ How to Use the Mini Trebuchet (Full Instructions)

This mini trebuchet is designed to launch small snowballs, foam balls, cotton balls, marshmallows, or other soft, lightweight projectiles. It is easy to operate and safe when used properly. Follow the steps below for the best performance.

📌 1. Set Up the Trebuchet

1. Place the trebuchet on a flat, hard surface like a table, floor, or driveway.
2. Make sure the front (long arm side) is pointing toward your target.
3. Keep the area clear in front of the trebuchet for at least 10–20 feet.

📦 2. Add Counterweight

Your trebuchet throws farther if the counterweight is heavier.

1. Open the counterweight box (if yours is hollow).
2. Add coins, bolts, washers, sand, or tiny rocks.
3. Close it and make sure the weight is secure and will not spill out.
4. Do not overfill; if the trebuchet flips forward when you fire, reduce weight.

🎯 3. Load the Projectile

1. Lift the long arm until the counterweight rises.
2. Place a small snowball or soft object into the cup.
3. Hold the arm steady with one hand so it doesn’t fire early.

📐 4. Aim the Trebuchet

You can adjust the height and angle of your shots by:

• Moving the base slightly left or right
• Changing the distance you place between the trebuchet and your target
• Adding more or less counterweight
• Raising or lowering the front of the base (optional)

🔥 5. Fire the Trebuchet

1. Hold the frame steady with your non‑dominant hand.
2. With your dominant hand, slowly release the throwing arm.
3. The counterweight will fall, the arm will swing upward, and the projectile will launch forward.

💡 6. Tips for Best Performance

• Use smooth, round projectiles (snowballs work great!).
• More counterweight = farther shot.
• Less counterweight = safer, shorter shots indoors.
• Make sure nothing touches the arm while it swings.
• If the arm hits the frame, widen the supports or adjust the axle height.

🛑 7. Safety Notes

• Never fire at pets, or fragile objects.
• Keep fingers away from the arm path.
• Use soft, safe projectiles only.(no hard snowballs made of mostly ice).
• Do not fire near eyes or faces. (it may be hard but try your best).
• Make sure the trebuchet is stable before releasing the arm.

🔧 8. Troubleshooting

Arm won’t move smoothly:

• Check that the axle isn’t rubbing against plastic edges.
• Add a drop of oil or use a smoother rod (wood dowel or metal rod).

Projectile falls out early:

• Use rounder projectiles
• Tilt the cup upward slightly in your design
• Reduce counterweight a little

Trebuchet tips forward:

• Too much counterweight → remove some.
• Add a heavier base (coins taped to the bottom work too).

(used ChatGPT for that)

ONE thing to know: 

the arm is not short on one side so the physics of the trebuchet are messed up and wont work unlless you adjust [sorry, my bad].

( I can't provide a real image because i live in Southern California: it never snows)