Sling Shots

Sling shots are relatively simple weapons that have been around for thousands of years. They arguable have their roots as an improved design over older, simple slings. However, slingshots operate under principles and fire missiles that are different enough from that of slings to give rise to some doubt about this comparison.

Ancient slings consist of two cords, one on either side of a pouch or cradle. The user fits a projectile in the cradle: early users used rocks, and later users developed lead shot for their slings. By utilizing one of a number of different techniques, users could hurtle the sling's shot at speeds up to 250 miles per hour for distances of almost 500 meters.

Modern Slingshots

Modern sling shots can reach the similar speeds. One of the most common slingshot applications, paintball games, find the slingshot such an effective weapon that it's validity in the games is sometimes brought under question. The reasoning behind the arguments is that slingshots in question are capable of firing a paintball at speeds over the 300 mph safety ceiling of paintball guns.

Most modern sling shots include a wrist brace that helps the decrease fatigue in the wrist of the user. Many are manufactured from thoroughly modern materials, including high strength aluminum, latex rubber straps, and molded foam grips. Small ball bearings and paintballs are generally considered to be the best ammunition for slingshots.