In the battle at Shao, troops of the Song dynasty faced off against the war elephant corps of the Southern Han. This confrontation is notable not only for the deployment of highly trained heavy artillery but also for the innovative use of crossbows, which played a crucial role in the Song's tactical advantage. As the Southern Han were known for their cavalry units augmented by war elephants, the sight of colossal beasts charging across the battlefield was formidable. However, Song strategists recognized the limitations of these elephants, particularly their vulnerability to long-range attacks.

During the encounter, the Song troops arranged themselves in a defensive formation that maximized their crossbow's effectiveness while minimizing the impact of the Southern Han's armored charges. Reports from sources describe the chaos that ensued as crossbow bolts rained down on the elephants, causing panic and disarray within their ranks. The agility and speed of the Song infantry allowed them to exploit the tussle, leading to a significant rout of the enemy forces.

This battle served as a testament to the adaptability of Song military strategies in the face of larger opponents, showcasing an early use of ranged weaponry combined with tactical maneuvering. The victory at Shao not only reinforced the Song dynasty's military reputation but also instigated a shift in tactics across the region, as future encounters increasingly integrated the use of crossbows against traditional cavalry and elephant-based armies.