Sling is one of the most ancient weapons. It was probably the first weapon designed to hurl a stone with more force than a person could deliver with the hand and arm. In its oldest form, the sling is a leather or hide strap, with a string fastened to each end. A stone or other object is placed on the strap, and the operator holds the two cords. The operator whirls the sling above the head and then lets go of one end of the sling’s cord to hurl the stone.
Slings are mentioned many times in the Bible. A most familiar reference is to the slaying of Goliath by David with a stone (I Sam. 17:49-50).
The ancient people of the Balearic Islands became famous for their skill with the sling. The sling was of great use to the armies of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. During the Middle Ages, soldiers used slings attached to a staff. The soldiers would hurl large stones against fortifications.
In America, a small hand catapult is called a slingshot, or sling. It is made by fastening an elastic band on each prong of a forked stick, and connecting the elastics by a leather pouch. The pouch holds a stone or small metal bullet. The fork is held in one hand, and the elastic is stretched with the other hand. The shot is hurled when the elastic is released. Such slings can cause serious injury. Most cities forbid their use.
Bolas are weapons used on the Pampas in many South American countries and by the Inuit (sometimes called Eskimos). Bolas are made of stone or balls of clay that are fastened to the ends of rope or cowhide. The free ends are tied or braided together and form a handle. The thrower hurls the bola at an animal. The stones or balls wind the ropes around the animal’s legs and throw the animal to the ground.
