Slingshot?

Above top: Marksman 3040, lower right: Chief AJ, lower left: Trumark S9

The title, "Slingshot?" may express the reaction of many small game hunters to the idea of  using a slingshot.  Actually my reaction would have been worse only a few years ago; Why? You nuts?

Why would a grown man with access to shotguns, rifles, air guns, bows... want to use a slingshot.   I'm about to tell you why and why you may want to try a slingshot.

The slingshot has advantages, but it will never be as effective as a shotgun, rifle, or air rifle.
It could however be more effective in some ways than an ordinary short barreled revolver or pistol.

Why use a slingshot?

• It's Fun!  Using a simple tool without any mechanical or optical aids is fun.  When you shoot a simple slingshot or bow and arrow without sights; it's all about you. It's not about having the best technology or equipment that will make your shot easier.  You get more pleasure from making a good shot because YOU! Did It.   
• It's Quiet! The slingshot makes little disturbance, little noise. The loud report of a firearm or some air guns is more likely to alarm the area's wildlife.  The bow is quiet to shoot but may cause the most  disturbance.  When you go to look for and retrieve your expensive arrows you will most often alert the game in that area.
• It's Less Hassle!  Anything which resembles a firearm is often considered a threat by the neighbors, landowners, law officers... If you or your vehicle are searched and they find a slingshot... if you're seen shooting a slingshot... most often there will be little or no negative response.  
• It's Cheap! This is also a part of "Less Hassle!".  An expensive bow or gun is a target for thieves. A good slingshot can cost less than $10 so thieves are seldom interested.  You're not likely to spend much time worrying about you slingshot. 
• It's Safe! You can keep a slingshot handy at home, in your truck, your boat... you'll likely have more opportunities to practice, to plink, and for game or pest shooting.  The iPhone is not the best camera, but it's used for the most pictures because it's the most available camera.  The slingshot can also be the most available tool for shooting.

NOTE: I certainly didn't fall in love with the slingshot the first time I shot one.  I couldn't seem to hit anything I shot at.  I threw the slingshot in with the garage junk and left it there for about ten years. Like anything worthwhile you must practice and learn to use a slingshot.  I'll have more in upcoming post.