Mersa wrote on Sep 12
th, 2017 at 6:34pm:
Just wondering if anyone has specific preferences with slinging
The Sling: how long , what material , construction design, weight
The Ammo: how heavy, how big, what shape , safe or destructive materials
The Style : one style , multiple styles , smooth on body , maximum effect max strain
The Task : distance, target, Balearic competition, dog walking, hunting
The Area: where you wanna sling.
Slings: For maximum efficiency and range- paracord (or thinner synthetic cords) and leather pouch with seatbelt type attachment. 27-32'' for close quarters, accuracy, use on the move and confined areas. 32-36'' for general use, high power easy slinging but not too long that you have to use specialized techniques. 40-50'' for long range warhorses and heavy rock lobbers.
For fun and sometimes accuracy- natural slings. My favourite natural sling designs are balearic and apache. I usually go for sisal for it's natural toughness (soaked for increased pliability, and leather lined fingerloop for comfort). Otherwise I go for jute which is a wonderful material but is not strong enough to make a decent whipcracking sling. Length 24''-32'' usually but I'm making a monster 45'' balearic at the moment.
Ammo: Ideal natural ammo is smooth beach pebbles of about 50-150g. If I have rubbish natural ammo like shale I'll make my own clay glandes or balls.
Style: For general slinging I use fig-8 mainly, it's a great combination of power and accuracy. Helicopter is also decent for both and sidearm/balearic is good for range.
Task & area: What I do depends on where I am. Now I'm back around Cumbria there's a lot of good beaches, this is great for range slinging with 40-50'' paracord+leather pouch. When I'm walking, in more confined areas or trying to hit a target I prefer shorter slings, around 24-32''. These can be shorter paracord/leather or one of my naturals.