WINDLASS, a machine used to raise huge weights withal, as guns, stones, anchors, &c.
It is very simple, consisting only of an axis or roller, supported horizontally at the two ends by two pieces of wood and a pulley: the two pieces of wood meet at top, being placed diagonally so as to prop each other; the axis or roller goes through the two pieces, and turns in them. The pulley is fastened at top where the pieces join. Lastly, there are two slaves or handspikes which go through the roller, whereby it is turned, and the rope which comes over the pulley is wound off and on the same.