Modern Slingshots have been in use for around 175 years and while they might be most notably associated with childhood vandalism (like “Dennis the Menace”) they are also incredible survival tools…. provided you have the patience to practice!
Ultralight, compact, unlimited ammo… and powerful enough to take out rabbit, squirrel, birds, and other small game… Is the slingshot one of the most viable survival tools you could carry? Check out the information below for a few pointers to get you started:
Check out the information below for a few pointers to get you started and be sure to let us know:
Primitive Skills: Using A Slingshot For Survival
When it comes to using a slingshot for survival (and honing any primitive skills really), practice makes perfect and patience breeds perfection.
After you choose your slingshot (either homemade or store bought) the next key point is choosing the right ammo and practicing your aim.
Testing out any new skill can be incredibly frustrating but you’ve got to stick with it. In the text below we’ve given you the step by step guidelines that should get you started with your new skill. Check it out and if you have any tips or tricks to add, be sure to leave them in the comments at the bottom of the page!
1. Looking For Ammo
The type of ammo you use has a heavy impact on your accuracy and exactly how lethal your shot will be. Ideally, you’d want to use a uniform ammo (like ball bearings) so that you get an accurate shot every single time. However, in a SHTF scenario access to ball bearings will be limited so I’d always recommend practicing with rocks. Remember, practice makes perfect!
2. Loading and Holding Your Ammo
Load your slingshot with your selected ammo. Using your dominant hand, hold the base of the slingshot. Your ammo should be placed exactly in the middle of the pouch without shifting. The positioning of your ammo is important as it would tell how it would be projected when fired.
3. Keeping Your Ammo In Place
With the use of your thumb and index finger, hold the ammo and stretch out the rubber of your slingshot. Make sure to have your thumb parallel with the strap. Avoid having the pocket or pouch get squeezed too tight as this could hinder the release of the ammo.
4. Starting To Aim
Aim for your target and have your dominant hand hold the slingshot handle. After releasing, there may be a tendency for your slingshot to jerk forward, which could lead to inaccurate firing. Your strong arm is more adept and can keep the slingshot steady, avoiding an inaccurate fire.
5. Slingshot Positioning
Have your arm raised on the side while holding the slingshot. You can choose to point the fork upward or angle to the side, both positions will work fine. In the end, it will all fall down with the type of shot you’re taking.
6. Clearing And Firing
Aim slightly above your target, make sure nothing will block the path, and release of your ammo. Practice using both eyes when aiming as it is better compared to using just your dominant eye. Pull the band until it’s stretched out forming a triangle.
7. Releasing The Band To Fire
Before releasing, make sure you have a clean shot and no obstruction are ahead aside from your target. Consider as well the length of your band determines the distance to your target. The shorter the band the shorter its range is. When everything is clear, release your grip from the ammo.
Learn another useful primitive skill outdoors by watching this video:
Learning how to use a slingshot is one of the most useful primitive skills you could acquire. However, while it’s really fun to use, a slingshot can also be dangerous and cause unintended harm to others. For that reason, you should be careful and responsible on how you use it. If you’re a newbie on slingshots, don’t worry because your accuracy and precision can increase through practice.
Aside from using a slingshot, what other primitive skills do you know? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
Up Next: Primitive Survival Skills: Surviving Without Tools And Supplies
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from SurvivalLife https://survivallife.com/primitive-skills-slingshot/
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