Slingshot Range & Permits
A few weeks ago at our Brownie camp, we decided to introduce the girls to slingshots. We approached the idea as a prelude to future weapons handling, such as: archery and rifle handling.
Now some of you may have just cringed. Slingshots like any firearms are not dangerous themselves, it is completely based on the the handler; just like a car.
Personally, I have been an avid hunter for over 20 years. I have been handling firearms since I was quite young with my family, and range shooting with my Sea Cadet core. However, it all started with a slingshot.
My approach with the slingshot was the same as any firearm. Yes, it can be fun to shoot, but it is not a toy. Safety protocol must always be observed. We gave an introduction to slingshots, including the parts, care and maintenance, and safety when using slingshots. Then we headed to our 'range'. The girls were very excited. The best part is when each girl learnt that they were each getting their very own owl slingshot to take home. The result, was a great activity!
Saftey
Present safety and range protocol. Explain how unsafe use will result in the loss of a corner of the permit. Then present each girl with her own printable Slingshot Permit, after the discussion on safety, range commands and slingshot parts.
We discussed basic safety.
Treat each slingshot as though it is a loaded firearm
They are not toys
Never dry-fire
Never aim at a person, evening jokingly
KNOW your target and what is behind it.
Do not shoot at anything you do not intend to destroy
Always store your slingshot in a cook, dark place when not in uses.
Do not expose slingshot to high temperatures or freezing temperatures
Always wear safety glasses
Range Commands
To introduce range commands we used standard shooting and archery commands. Whistle commands may be used as well.
Shooters to the line ( 2-3 shooters to the shooting line, they are to wait for further command)
Shooters may shoot 3 rounds, and fire at will/range is hot (girls are to take 2 steps back from shooting ling when finished and wait for others to finish shooting)
Range is clear (girls can go into shooting field and check targets)
Hold/Stop (girls are to stop and put their slingshots down immediately, even mid pull)
Parts
We showed different types of slingshots, and discussed the different parts.
Frame & Handle
Rubber bands
Ammunition pouch
Forts
Rubber band notches
Different types of ammunition (rocks ,ball bearings, small marshmallows...)
Firing Range
Make sure to set up in an area clear from any traffic in range area, a field is great for this. Have girls line up 15 feet or more behind the shooting line. Call 2-3 shooters to the line at a time. Have girls hand off safety glasses.
It is important to ensure that the the girls are aware of where the Range Commander is at all times.
Set up plastic or foam cups filled with water or cans on a table approximately 20-25 feet away from shooting line. Cans are also fun because they make a great sound when they are hit. Foam or plastic cups with water spill water for everyone's delight.
Merit Badges
In true Guiding fashion, I asked 'Is there a badge for that"?
If you have read some of my other blog posts, I have ordered patches and crests from
E-Patches & Crests. Especially the small merit badges for Knife, Match and Fire permits....
As I was talking with a design representative about another custom order, I had mentioned that I would like to have a custom slingshot merit badge made as well. They liked the idea so much that they produced it without the custom design fee!
I have used E-Patches & Crests for a lot of orders, and must say I am always impressed with the customer service and fast shipping!
Sourcing Slingshots
A few years ago we made our own slingshots for our Cub Scout pack. We cut wood forms, beveled the edges, drilled holes to thread the medical rubber (purchased through a medical supplier), and cut leather ammunition pouches. These were great and the kids got to make and decorate their own slingshots.
Unfortunately, these are a lot more work to prepare.
This camp, I outsourced the slingshots. Partially due to time, and needing to cut over 20 of them, but also due to the costs of lumber.
I found a company called Natures Expression a wholesale company that carries mainly souvenir type merchandise. To purchase from this company you must be a registered business and provide a business number. So, I called them up and explained that we are a Brownie unit and not a business, and they let us use the Girl Guides of Canada organization number to register and order!
They have beautiful wooden slingshots for $5.50 CAN. They best part is that they have carved owl slingshots! I thought these would make a fabulous end-of-the-year gift for our Brownies. There is a minimum on orders, tax and shipping, but it was fast and a great deal.
The service was fantastic!
Thoughts
This was a fun activity, and the girls took to it fast! I was quite impressed at how focused and serious all of them were. Perhaps it was the fear of losing their permits?
I wish that we would have allotted more time at camp for more range work.
Don't forget to subscribe, like, share and leave a comment!