Hello Everyone!

I made my first sling about a year ago using instructions from this site. I just made a new sling because my old one was getting really fuzzy because I made it from really unravelly twine. I've read through some of the site for advice and find it very interesting, and now I've decided to join.

I'm at Indiana University; anyone else from there?

Greetings from Australia,

Welcome to the site. Somewhat distant from Indiana but that's the wonder of internet. Got your PM and will be forwarding pouches today. With good cords and used with tennis balls they'll last indefinitely.

What are you studying at uni?

Regards,

Aussie

Thanks Aussie,

I'm studying Geology. I'm only in first year, though, so nothing is set in stone.

What sort of cord would you recommend using? I have some stuff that I believe is similar to paracord, although it is very slippery and flattened, instead of round. Knots have to be pulled very tight to stay tied.

Thanks Again,

Jacob

Something a bit perversely amusing about a geology student slinging rocks. I wonder if any geologists have come across a stone thrown by some long gone slinger and wondered, "Strange, I wouldn't expect to find this particular stone here, it's quite out of place." :D

Back to more relevant things. Paracord is very good, especially the milspec. 550 stuff as the quality and consistency is tops. However any quality braided synthetic cord will be fine. Motor mower pullstart cord is very good, strong, abrasion resistant and non stretchy. On the negative, it's a little difficult to tie and is a bit hard on your fingers. There's a very good cord available here that's sold as load tiedown cord. It's white with a single red thread through it, sold in Australia as Zenith brand. As all this material is made in China nowdays I'm sure it will be available in the US too. The only cord to avoid is the common twisted polypropylene type as it is impossible to tie, very hard on the hands and kinks badly.

Anoher possibilty is thin cotton sash cord. Rat Man uses this type of cord on his slings. I have one of his and one other of the same cord. Both very good. Downside of all white cords is that they don't stay white for long.

Jacob wrote on Oct 3^rd, 2010 at 7:38pm:

I'm studying Geology. I'm only in first year, though, so nothing is set in stone.

Hahaha, "set in stone"...