How to Build a Sling

A sling, also called a shepherd's sling, is a weapon that has been used since before David met Goliath on the battlefield in ancient times. You can build one of these ancient weapons yourself by attaching strings to a pouch.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Scissors
• Knife
• Piece of leather
• Nylon rope
• Lighter
• Water
• Marble or pebble

1. Cut a piece of thin nylon rope into two 2-foot long pieces.
2. Locate a piece of leather or heavy piece of cloth and cut it into an oval about 3 inches by 5 inches. Fold it in half and cut it to make the piece symmetrical. This piece will build what is called the pouch.
3. Snip a slit on each side of the piece of leather or cloth lengthwise or punch holes in the material with a knife so that you can attach the strings to the pouch.
4. Push the end of one side of the rope through one of the holes or slits in the leather and tie it in a square knot securely. Repeat this process on the other side so that both strings are tied onto the leather pouch on both sides.
5. Tie a loop on the end of one piece of the nylon rope. Place the loop around your ring finger.
6. Tie a knot on the other side of the nylon rope about 2 ½ to 3 inches from the end and hold the string at this point between your pointer and your thumb in the same hand. The knot is meant to help you get a secure grip on the rope.
7. Place a rock, pebble or marble into the pouch.
8. Swing the sling around underhanded one or two times and release the end of the string that is between your thumb and pointer finger when the pouch is in front of you.

Tips & Warnings

• If you lightly burn the nylon rope on both ends with a lighter after cutting it, it will prevent the rope from fraying.
• Get the leather wet and press it into a cupped, round shape to build your pouch. Work with the leather while it is wet to stretch it out.
• There is no need to swing the sling more than two times. Any more than that is simply a waste of energy.