[TowerTalk] Broken slingshot - need quality replacement to get antennas up in the trees

[Keith Dutson]

Bob,

Although you are not looking for slingshot alternatives, I have experience using several launch devices and recommend the use of the air launcher.  I built my launcher using parts sourced chiefly from Lowes and Home Depot.  I purchased a bicycle tire pump to charge the launcher.  The launcher goes with me to Field Day.  There are always other launchers there, but mine is the one that always works the best.  Practice allows perfect shots for every situation.

I use the old style wrap style bowhunting reel for the tag line, with about 200 yards of 20 pound braided Trilene orange line.  I like the 1 ounce launch projectile, but have a 2 ounce version for heavier line.

My experience reveals varying air pressure yields shooting heights from 50 feet at 10 pounds to 300 feet at 60 pounds.  This was determined viewing shots fired near my 150 foot tower.  It is easy to aim the launcher looking down the 16 inch PVC barrel.  Because the air launcher easily goes over the highest trees, I prefer shooting over the top of a tree rather than over a lower limb.

If anyone wants to build one of these, I can send photos.

One more note to add is that I repaired my slingshot using surgical tubing.  While it now works okay, I have grown to trust the air launcher for better results.

73, Keith NM5G

-----Original Message-----
From: TowerTalk <towertalk-bounces at contesting.com> On Behalf Of Bob Shohet, KQ2M
Sent: Wednesday, November 13, 2019 12:24 PM
To: towertalk at contesting.com
Subject: [TowerTalk] Broken slingshot - need quality replacement to get antennas up in the trees

Hi,
The bands on my two Marksman slingshots broke two weeks ago.  I bought replacement Marksman slingshot bands – ALL 4 BROKE on the first or second pull.  Apparently these crappy replacement bands for Marksman are all made in China now.  No wonder the price went down.  I had used my Marksman slingshot with American made replacement bands for the past 20+ years before this and was able to get the 2 oz fishing sinker above branches at close to 100’ above ground – this is my goal.  But now it is impossible – the replacement bands are USELESS!  

I have checked other well-known brands and all of their replacement bands are made in China and, from reading the comments, the results are similar and awful.  

I need a quality US made slingshot with US made replacement bands.  I am not interested in using other methods.  (Bow and arrow, spud launcher, etc.)

Can anyone recommend a good US based company with quality slingshots and replacement bands made in the US? 

Tnx & 73


Bob KQ2M
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