Zinkall
| Zinkall | |
|---|---|
| |
| Type | Weapons |
| World of Origin | Taldain |
| Universe | Cosmere |
A zinkall, plural zinkallin, is a ranged weapon used by Daysiders on Taldain.
Characteristics[edit]
A zinkall looks like a set of thin reed-like pipes held together with rope. It is mounted on the forearm, near the wrist. There are usually four or five tubes, although some zinkallin may have many more.[1] Each tube contains a small arrow, loaded in the front, that can be launched by the wielder of the zinkall by releasing compressed air, pushing the arrow out of the tube at high speed.[2] The arrows can be carved from sandling carapace, making them terken, and they usually have fletching on the back of their shafts.[3] A zinkall can be used in very close quarters,[3] and the arrows can be fired in rapid succession.[4] They appear to be quite accurate, although proficiency may take some practice.[5] The exact range of a zinkall is unknown, but they are typically used at short-range to wound an opponent, before engaging them with a sword.[2]
Zinkallin are common weapons on Dayside, being the preferred weapon for duels, battles, and self-defense.[2] They are seen used by Kerztian warrior-priests, Lossandin trackts, and members of Sharezan's gang.[3] Most users wield a single zinkall, presumably to allow the use of a melee weapon in their other hand.[2] Extra arrows can be carried in a small quiver attached to a belt or sling.[6] In some nations of Darkside, they have been made obsolete by the discovery of gunpowder, as they lack the strength of guns.[3][2]
History[edit]
Zinkallin are seen many times during the events that led to Kenton becoming Lord Mastrell. They were used by the Kerztians in their attack on the Diem,[1] by both Lokmlen and Ais during their fight in the market,[3] and by several assassins who tried to kill Kenton.[4][6]
Khrissalla found the weapons interesting and noted that they operated on the same basic principles as a pistol.[3]
Tain gave Ais a defective zinkall before luring her into a trap.[7]