I have a good idea to defend slingers:
1. staffsling with spearpoint
2. Sling with spikes attatched to the pouch (sling/flail)
3. a pre-loaded crossbow
4. sword breaker, i saw it in some book, if you hit a sword with it and pull/twist/etc. it will crack and break it.
5. torch and oil (throw the oil, light it, run!)
6. a horse with an attitude
7. brass knuckles with spikes/claws (like wolverine)
8. ninja stars
9. smoke screen
10. ninja weapons ( a WHOLE lot, many very compact)
11. spiked shield