After using the search function, I have determined that there are no other threads about this "sling bow".  The reason I bring it up is because BrianGrubbs showed me a link to this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6LxKfpAPYA&feature=channel_page (Thanks Brian!)

The video, of course, is all about how to construct what the man calls a "sling bow", a combination of a slingshot and a bow.  I watched it, liked what I saw, and made my own.  I used exactly the same model of slingshot and whisker biscuit, and the results were pretty good.  (It almost seems like the parts were made for each other!)

While doing some archery earlier that day, I damaged the nock of one my arrows when my next arrow clipped it on its way into the target.  This damaged arrow became my test arrow for the slingbow (as the nockless rear was easier to grip through the pouch).  I was able to hit the shooting block (and get good arrow penetration) pretty consistently, but only after compensating for the arrow's tendency to go to the left.

To test what was causing this tendency, I held the slingshot vetically for a few shots, and found that it now shot low.  I concluded that my arrow would stray in the direction of wrist brace.  This could either be because of my improper form or due to the arrow.  

Just as it's important to match a bow to the arrow, I suppose it may be important to match an arrow to your slingbow.  For what it's worth, in the video he recommends carbon arrows, but I was using an aluminum arrow.

Also, as advertised, the whisker biscuit easily flips down and it can be used as a standard slingshot again at will.

Has anyone else attempted to make one of these?  If so, what are your experiences with it?

Like TN Frank, I'm familiar with both bows and crossbows designed to shoot bullet-like projectiles.
There's quite a lot of information in this book:

http://www.amazon.com/Practical-Guide-Man-Powered-Bullets-Bullet-Bows/dp/0811701...

Which is a fun read anyway...

Don't know why you couldn't shoot arrows successfully with a sling-shot type device; the limiting factor being the "pinch" grip you'd need.

i've seen it, but until i find my marksman and get an arrow or whittle one i won't have any experience. one of the better parts is that it's easier to practice and get good at it then a bow, at least for me so far it has

Bikewer wrote on Oct 2^nd, 2009 at 2:55pm:

The pinch factor was overcome by removing the nock and inserting a golf tee into the arrow shaft and gluing it in place. That gives you something to grip through the pouch.

This looks cool, I might have to try it... any one made one and know what the pull is?

...and did he say whisker 'brisket' or whisker 'biscuit'?   

Eoraptor: Yes, I have made one of these.  The bands are the stock ones that came with the slingshot, so while I don't know the exact draw weight, I can tell you it's light enough for almost anyone to pull back fairly easily. 

curious_aardvark: I must admit I found the irony in the idea that the slingbow would get those kids to put down those violent video games to go outside and kill something!  But at the same time, I also appreciate the idea that as human beings, we are inherently predators.  That is, we didn't end up at the top of the food chain by mistake.

I don't exactly advocate leaving a wake of animal corpses wherever you go, but I think it's important that youth develop a respect for weapons and hunting, life and death.  I'd rather see adolescent boys blasting squirrels out of a tree with a BB gun than crying over Bambi.

I know there are some psychologists who say that killing small animals leads to serial killers, but I think those pro-animal extremists (like PETA, ALF, and SHARK) are WAY worse.  They're the ones who need mental health counseling.

But anyway, back to the slingbow, if you have about $20-30 you're willing to spend and are near a Wal*Mart or similar store then I highly recommend giving it a try.  But, as you're shooting arrows with this thing, it's definitely a plus to have something as a soft target to preserve your arrows.  I have a nice archery target block, but hay bales and stuff will work too.

Quote:


Precisely.
Going out and killing any animal for 'fun' or 'practice' just leads to a callous approach to life in general.
Me I'd rather have them playing video games. Never did me any harm (lol)


And quepy - he does state quite clearly that you want to buy the $20 replacement whisker brisket (lol)

Anyone watching the video - will know this

Have to admit I love the idea, had I a wallmart I'd make one, have lots of fun with it  - and NOT shoot animals. It's an option none of these people seem capable of processing.

if i had to kil something i would only do it if i knew i would be using every part possible to use that's in my skill. this include eating it, figuring out how to tan or just make leather in general. then my mom could probably make stock out of the bones. i guess I'll have to get rid of the head because stuffing it is just stupid unless less if it's a turkey at thanksgiving