Thames & Kosmos Catapult Engineering STEM Maker Kit, Build 6 Models of Unique Medieval Machines, Explore Mechanical Physics, Includes Safe Foam Balls & Soft-Tipped Projectiles, Suitable for Ages 8+

I bought this for nephew, mostly because he’s really been getting into the STEM stuff. I personally am a history buff, so naturally I thought this was pretty cool. All I know is he absolutely loved it, he’s eight and is usually glued to his video games. It’s really well priced for what it is. The quality of the siege engines from Medieval times made it fun to learn for my nephew. You can build different versions of the most common used siege engines of decent various sizes. They work as intended. Overall we had fun building them together.

Bought for my kids Christmas. They haven’t used it yet, but the price is great and my kiddos are excited to use it!

Cross-bow. Difficult to assemble. Instructions don't show recognition of elements that are hard to assemble. Perspectives shown in illustrations are not always the ones that would be most informative. That said, the crossbow is exceptionally sturdy and capable. My 6-year-old grandson was delighted. Recommended

first of all, what is not made clear is that you can't build 6 machines. you build ONE and if you want to build a different one you have to take the other one apart, easier said than done. i needed pliers. second, the pictures in the instructions are small and a few of them could be clearer. third, the included foam ball is too lightweight to travel nicely through the air or knock the bricks over much. However, the pieces aren't flimsy, and the models we have made do work. It was a nice idea to make the box be a castle. For the price, it's acceptable; but an 8 year old is unlikely to be able to do this except with a lot of help.

This was a gift and turned out to be a hit. Durable and fun and easy to put together.

Bought this for my 10 year old grandson and he loves it! It’s very well made and I was impressed at how sturdy the pieces are and the grandson had a blast constructing the various options in designs that were in the kit.

It ws a gift so waiting to see how they liked it

There is no way on this earth that an 8 year old can put this together. To quote my extremely capable husband "This is the hardest thing I've ever put together".

This is fantastic! My 11 year old built the crossbow and has had loads of fun with it- it comes with two “arrows” which have firm foam on the end (great for shooting at balloons and cans!). Item is age appropriate and not too difficult to assemble (although not easy - kept her busy for long enough to be engaging but not to hard that she lost interest). If you have a child who likes Lego and building other things this is a great option.

Has provided many hours of fun for a five year old and grandma

I purchased this item as a birthday present for my 10 year old. It was not one of the gifts he asked for, but said it is the best gift he had and has successfully built and modified the cross bow.

Very good

Bought this for my grandson he loved it