Is there any advantage to a pouch twist, or could it be hurting my slingshot shooting?

Three people ask this question, so it must be one that is being asked often. Read the article or watch the video below to hear what Nathan has to say about this slingshot shooting technique.

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The topic is the slingshot pouch twist. Should we do it or should we avoid it?

Read on and watch the video to learn all about it.

It is common for slingshot shooters to give their pouch up to a 90° twist when shooting. In the past it was commonly thought that this would help the slingshot shooter avoid fork hits. We always recommend drawing the slingshot bands straight back without a twist to establish a solid foundation, but as we will discuss here, the pouch twist is both common and acceptable.

Let’s establish upfront that a pouch twist will not likely solve any fork hit problems. If you are experiencing fork hits then it is likely that you have a problem with your release.

So is it detrimental to use up to a 90° pouch twist?
We openly state that we are not using super slow motion footage to support this claim, but we are looking at the results down range. If the groupings and accuracy say you are doing things right, it would be hard to argue that even with slow motion footage. Slingshot success will show on the target.

It is not likely that a slingshot shooter shooting through the forks will use a pouch twist, especially if the shooter is holding the slingshot sideways. However, if you shoot TTF and use a slight pouch twist to solidify your anchor point, go for it. If the pouch twist helps you ensure a solid and consistent anchor point, then this will help you.

We are huge advocates of working on your anchor point and therefore your release, so if a pouch twist helps (whether you are shooting OTT or TTF) this is bound to help your slingshot shooting.

Onto the slingshot shooters who are not using a cheek anchor. If you are drawing past your cheek (past your ear even), you may already be incorporating a pouch twist whether or not you are doing it intentionally. When Nathan shoots a slingshot that he draws past his normal cheek anchor point, he incorporates about a 45° pouch twist. If this helps you solidify your anchor point when shooting your slingshot, then this is something you should do. It will not negatively affect your shooting.

Also, a pouch twist can’t help those who have had an injury or have lack of mobility in their arm, wrist, or hand.

Like we always say, consistency is key. If a pouch twist helps you shoot your slingshot consistently, then it is right for you.

Let us know what you think in the comments on YouTube.