Steel Balls for Slingshot - Multiple sizes available for effective shots

The slingshot is certainly one of those accessories that have entertained generations for decades. Who doesn't remember the good old days when we used to have fun shooting at straw targets using a slingshot and pebbles as ammunition? Today, although it is no longer widely used by children, it has gained popularity in the field of survival and hunting. Featuring a more efficient design, modern slingshots now ensure shooting power almost similar to bows. During hunting, using a slingshot allows easy targeting of small game. And in survival situations, this throwing weapon is indispensable for adapting to extreme conditions. Regarding ammunition, the pebbles of yesteryear have been traded for denser and more aerodynamic projectiles: steel balls.

From pebbles to steel balls 

The slingshot is an invention whose origin dates back to the perfection of rubber. A piece of leather, two Y-shaped branches and elastics are enough to create one. Over time, its design has evolved thanks to some improvements that have been made. Today, most of these throwing weapons incorporate a metal handle, flat or tubular elastics, stabilizers, a wrist rest and even a sight. On the projectile side, a simple stone was once used, hence the name of this throwing equipment. But as the practice of slingshot has moved from leisure to hunting and survival, more powerful projectiles have been developed. And among the most effective are steel balls, guaranteeing more precision and long range.

On Hattila, find a whole range of steel balls ranging from less dense models to models with a diameter of 10.3 mm. 

The different types of slingshots

It is true that the slingshot has evolved into several types of models in recent years. You will find:

The rustic slingshot 

This type of slingshot is the most classic of all models. It is made of a Y-shaped piece of wood, a rubber elastic, and a small piece of leather to place clay projectiles. 

The modern slingshot

This type of slingshot is equipped with a metal or plastic frame like most models offered on Hattila. It also incorporates an ergonomic handle, tubular or flat elastic, and other equipment: sight, ammo holder, flashlight holder, stabilizer, arm rest, dart holder... You can find projectiles suitable for these different models on Hattila, the reference in armory. 

The different types of ammunition for slingshots

Currently, slingshots are equipped with lead ammunition. Some can even shoot arrows. But depending on your needs, you have the possibility to choose from a multitude of ammunition. First, you have steel projectiles. These metal balls with a diameter ranging from 0.66 mm to 10.3 mm are the most powerful. To leave no chance to the small game you have decided to hunt, these models are the most recommended. On Hattila, find packages composed of 50 balls with a diameter of 9.5 mm. You also have jars of 100 steel balls with a diameter of 6.5 mm for smaller targets (fish, rabbits, hamsters, ...).

There are also glass projectiles. These are rubber-coated balls that bounce. For shooting practice, these are the most appreciated. You also have copper projectiles, guaranteeing precise shooting. They are light and can be used on all types of slingshots. 

Finally, you have carbide projectiles that have the same performance as steel balls. The only downside is that they are more expensive. 

The range of steel balls 

Generally, steel balls promise a fairly long range, especially those with a diameter less than 10 mm. But the range of projectiles can also depend on several factors: your strength, your age, the elastic that integrates the slingshot and your shooting technique. Younger users, for example, achieve short-range shots given that they do not have enough strength to pull the elastic. As for the shooting technique, it all depends on your training. If you take the time to practice well, you will be able to make shots up to 400 feet with steel balls. Regarding the elastic, the more flexible it is, the faster the FPS will be. For hunting, prefer flexible elastics guaranteeing at least 250 FPS.