One could argue that the slingshot is one of the oldest weapons in human history. Throughout history, going as far back as David and Goliath, there have been many variations of the slingshot.  From wild forest hunters to today’s sportsman, many people know how to aim and use a wrist rocket effectively.

The story of David and Goliath was written at about the same time as when Homer was writing his works. That would be around 800 BC. The story that is being told is from the past, and could be referring to a time around 3000 BC.

That makes the first recorded slingshot about five thousand years old!

The Modern Slingshot

Slingshots today come in a large variety of styles, shapes and are constructed with modern materials. Because of these advancements, they are no longer simply considered to be “toys” but have become truly powerful weapons that in the right hands can bring down all kinds of small game such as squirrels, birds and rabbits.

You have to be a skilled shot though to hit one of these critters, and this is even truer if the critter is on the move.
You can now get these modern catapults with sights, even high powered sights that are called “laser” sights. Today’s high velocity, high accuracy slingshots also include such features as a self-centering ammo band and pouch, wear-reducing prongs, and guidance collars.

Because of these advancements, there have been radical improvements in the power, fork design and materials, which make these tools true weapons, which are great for competitive shooting by adults as well as for kids.

There are many regional and national clubs and competitions for the modern slingshot enthusiasts.

Shooting Skill

Despite all the advancements in technology, from that time so long ago when the small little David confronted the huge Goliath, hunting with modern high velocity slingshots still requires a high degree of shooting skill that can only be acquired through dedication and practice.

The first “Wrist Rockets”

One of the first modern slingshots was put out by the Wham-O, company way back in 1949. Then there was the Saunders “Wrist-Rockets” which were introduced in 1954. From that time over 50 years ago until our present day, their popularity has not dwindled.

Some of the popular models currently on the market have names such as “Black Widow” and “Laser Hawk,” which are quite fitting names.
The basic ideas and principles first generated by manufacturers during the early fifties are still used in the slingshots that you can buy today. You can get stocks made of steel, aluminum, and wood – whatever you may choose.

Homemade Slingshots

Some people still make old fashioned homemade style slingshots, like the famous Rufus Hussey.
Rufus Hussey was known as “the bean shooter man” because of his expert marksmanship. Rufus could hit a June-bug off a leaf from a considerable distance.

He started making and shooting slingshot when he was a kid growing up during the great depression out of necessity, and later went on to make them for fun. Rufus passed away back in 1994 after more than 50 years of slingshot mastership.

Still other people who make wrist rockets may carve beautifully engravings in the stocks and will also use exotic woods. They can become quite fancy.

Today’s modern wrist rocket manufactures use the very best rubber and leather pouches making these more than just toys, but rather highly tuned weapons that are fun to own and shoot.

Laws

There are laws governing the shipment of the slingshot that should be kept keep in mind. For example, slingshots cannot be shipped to some states such as Massachusetts, New Jersey or New York.

You should check your local area for any special codes concerning shooting slingshots in residential areas. It is recommended that you go to a low populated and open area when shooting.

Wrist Rocket Safety

Safety should always be kept in mind whenever you use projectiles. Having a band snap back and hit someone in the face can be dangerous.
Be sure to wear glasses when firing because safety glasses are highly recommended when using slingshots.

Also, never shoot at people.

You can truly hurt someone with one of these. Keep in mind that these modern devices can be more powerful than even many air guns. Safety must be taken seriously.

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Rufus Hussey was known as the beanshooter man. He could shoot a slingshot like no one you have ever seen!

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