The sling is an ancient throwing weapon, known since the Stone Age. Due to its high efficiency, low cost and ease of manufacture, it survived for many centuries and survived in European armies almost until the end of the 17th century. Nowadays, a sling can become an excellent weapon of self-defense, and throwing from it is a fascinating sports hobby, accessible to absolutely anyone, since, unlike other ancient small arms, such as bows and crossbows, making a sling on your own will not be difficult.
It is necessary
leather belt, nylon (leather) cord, awl, fishing line, scissors
Instructions
Step 1
The device of the sling is extremely simple - it is just a strong rope or leather belt with a loop at one end and a small cup-pocket in the middle. In ancient times, several types of sling were used. The simplest of them was an ordinary stick or cane with a split at the end, into which a projectile was inserted. More common were belt slings, consisting of a belt folded in half with an extension in the middle. A more complex version of the sling was the so-called whip sling, which had a handle and a loop for a projectile.
Step 2
You can make a sling yourself from any available material: a thick rope, a leather belt or a strip of durable fabric. In any case, the principle of the sling is the same. The length of the sling can be from 80 to 150 cm, one end is equipped with a loop to secure the sling to the wrist, the other remains free.
Step 3
In the middle of the sling (at the fold), a pocket or loop is made for the projectile. The pocket can be sewn from fabric or leather. It is also sometimes made wicker in the shape of a shallow oval cup. Nylon cords or narrow strips of leather are well suited for weaving. It is worth noting that the wicker pocket has a higher elasticity and resilience, which has a positive effect on the flight of the projectile when thrown.
Step 4
Lead bullets, lead balls, small stones are usually used as projectiles for a sling. For stone shells, it is more convenient to use rounded pebbles or large river pebbles. Stones with sharp edges are worse in flight and have difficulty hitting the target.
