Ep 5. Flying Guillotine

In season 11 episode 5 of MythBusters titled "Flying Guillotine," the team is tackling myths related to ancient weapons. One of the myths they are exploring is the Chinese Flying Guillotine, a weapon that was supposedly used in ancient China to decapitate enemies. The team sets out to determine if this weapon could really fly and, if so, how effective it would be in battle.

To start, the team builds a replica of the Chinese Flying Guillotine based on historical descriptions and illustrations. The weapon consists of a circular blade attached to a bamboo pole, which is attached to a rope. The idea is that the user would throw the blade like a frisbee, aiming for the enemy's head. If successful, the rope would be pulled, causing the blade to decapitate the enemy.

The team tests the Flying Guillotine on a variety of different materials, including fruit, mannequins, and even a pig's head. They also measure the speed and force of the weapon to determine how lethal it would be in an actual battle situation.

In addition to the Flying Guillotine, the team also looks at the effectiveness of other ancient weapons, including the Chinese repeating crossbow and the Japanese katana. They test these weapons against modern materials to see how they would hold up in modern combat.

Throughout the episode, the team is challenged to think creatively and use their knowledge of science and engineering to solve these ancient mysteries. They work together to come up with unique solutions to complex problems, often using trial and error to find the answers they need.

In the end, the team has some surprising results, revealing the true power and effectiveness of these ancient weapons. They also provide some fascinating insights into the history and culture of these ancient societies, shedding light on the ways in which they fought and lived.

Overall, "Flying Guillotine" is a thrilling and engaging episode of MythBusters that will appeal to anyone who has an interest in history, weapons, or science. With its unique combination of ancient myths and modern technology, it provides an exciting and educational look at the past and present of warfare.