The 18 minute slingshot

So, you’ve scored an offer from SimpleShot to purchase a DIY kit to make your own slingshot (good idea), but you haven’t finished up yet.

• Maybe the whole idea of banding up a slingshot is overwhelming (the first time is always the hardest).
• Maybe you’re not sure what to look for in a fork?
• Maybe something else? Regardless, that kit is doing you no good whatsoever without the effort to put it together.

If you want to go from average Joe to slingshot superhero, literally 18 minutes is all you need.  Here’s how.

Step one: Watch this video [6:00]

This will take 6 minutes. But it’s worth every one.

You could stop it at 5 minutes, but you’d miss the most encouraging part: watching a JUST MADE slingshot nail a 6-inch target three out of three tries.

This video will give you the complete overview of how to turn a tree fork into a kickin’ slingshot!

Step two: Prepare your fork [4:00]

You’ve found a good fork. Now you need to prepare it.

Trim the fork ends, leaving enough fork for the slingshot projectile to clear your hand (not too short) and with a pocketknife, smooth off any jagged edges. (Jagged edges = torn bands).

Trim the handle wherever it feels comfortable.

Step four: Wrap and Tuck [4:00]

Now that you’ve read the tutorial and learned how to use the Wrap and Tuck method, you’re ready to actually install your bands.

Review: you’ve selected your fork, rounded off the tips, watched the video of how to do this, and learned the Wrap and Tuck method.

Now it’s time to make this slingshot happen!

Using your new knowledge, securely fasten the bands to the fork.

1. Make sure that your pouch is oriented correctly (fuzzy side IN)
2. Make sure your bands go OVER THE TOP of the slingshot fork
3. Make sure the “ears” (the trimmed ends of the bands where they are tied in) are facing OUT
4. Make sure your bands are attached to the target side of the fork, not the side facing you (hence, OVER the top)

This owners manual will show you closeups of what we’re talking about.

This one will tell you things you really must know.

Step five: Have fun [The rest of your life]

• Impress your friends (earn serious man points)
• Quality time with family (your kids will love it)
• Become a marksman superstar (cutting cards, snuffing candles…)
• Give the best gifts at every party or holiday

You are now on your way to (don’t laugh, seriously) a LIFETIME of fun. Congratulations!

Slingshot Ammo

The most popular band attachment method is the “Wrap and Tuck.” It’s been around for ages, works for modern forks as well as naturals, and requires just a strip of rubber and no tools (or a tool as simple as the lanyard on your slingshot.)

For the photos, we’re using the Scout and the included lanyard as the loop. You can also use a piece of ribbon, wire, any sturdy pulling device, foreceps or just your thumb. You may also use office rubber bands for tie-in material.

OK. Let’s get started! Seven steps to completing the Wrap and Tuck band attachment method.

1. Lay down one wrap of tie material on target side of slingshot.

This creates a strong “grippy” base for the band. The wrap and tuck relies on this friction, so take advantage of it with this step.

2. Place the band over the back of the slingshot (target side) and begin wrapping.

Don’t pull so tight that it’s impossible to hold, but make sure it’s snug enough to be sure the band won’t wiggle loose.

3. Apply at least three wraps, stretching the tie in material as you wrap.

Again, stretch it tight, but don’t over or under-do it. You should be able to get 3 or more full wraps.

4. After at least three tensioned wraps, place a loop on the target side of the band grooves.

This could be your lanyard (shown) or any loop of wire (not too thin / sharp though), ribbon, or even your thumb.

5. Make TWO more tensioned wraps.

These wraps lock in the end, so don’t skimp here. Keep them tight and aligned well to hold the band securely.

6. Carefully holding the tensioned wraps in place, feed the tag end through the loop.

Don’t lose your grip or all that work can vanish in an instant. (We’ve all had it happen. Don’t worry if it does; just try again!)

7. Pull the loop back underneath the final two wraps.

If you’re using your thumb, roll your thumb out, pulling the end with it. Tricky at first. with practice, it’s all muscle memory. Easy!

That’s it! The finished product.

Pull the end all the way through, or leave a loop as shown for easy removal.

It’s an old video, but it does the trick. Here you can watch the process of the Wrap and Tuck method for slingshot banding happen on video. Keep practicing if you find it difficult. It won’t always be so tough!

If you’d rather skip this method altogether, consider the Ocularis™ or FlipClip™ banding systems. Both accommodate various bands (flats or tubes) and thicknesses. Check out these three slingshots for each band attachment method.

Slingshot Ammo

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