Slings

The Hurl Wiki » Parts » Slings

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Slings greatly improve the range of most types of hurling devices. They generally consist of a pouch that holds the projectile connected to the arm by two lines. One line is attached to the arm, and the other ends in a loop over the pin. Thus, then when the sling swings out accelerating the projectile, the sling will eventually will rotate far enough that the line that loops over the pin will come off, causing the pouch to open, releasing the projectile.

Tuning

For information about adjusting the sling and pin, see the tuning page. For information on making adjustable length slings see the design below.

Function

An explanation of how slings work can be found on Ripcord's How slings work page.

Design

There are many great sling designs at Ripcord's slings page and Siege-Engine.com. One very simple and effective design not listed is the duct tape and string design best explained by a picture, see right. Another picture with the slings full and one with the slings empty.

Adjustable Length

Ripcord's stuff page also has some great info on The Taught Line Hitch which is great for making adjustable length slings. Sometimes the knot can slip on smooth ropes line nylon, but this can be prevented by adding some extra turns. Tying a knot in the cut off end of the line can help prevent it from getting pulled through the knot.