Let’s be very clear from the outset, here: the item in question today is fun to use, sure, but it’s more of a weapon than a toy. If you fire one of the 5/16″ steel balls that come with it at a person, it may result in serious injury and will probably be a felony.
Now… let’s have some fun!
Because after all, the Pocket Shot is a hell of a lot of fun. Simply put, it’s a modern adaptation of the classic slingshot. But rather than simply using different materials or an updated design, this is a total re-imagining of slingshot design that nonetheless preserves the same kinetics of the age old weapon.
The Pocket Shot consists of a ring made from high-impact polycarbonate plastics to which a rugged (yet replaceable) latex pouch is affixed. The operator grasps the ring with one hand, drops ammunition (steel ball, marble, pebble, paintball, etc.) into the pouch, pulls back on the rubber, and lets the shot fly. Said shot can fly at up to 35o feet per second, by the way.
The Pocket Shot is both safer and easier to use than a traditional slingshot for a number of reasons. First, you don’t run the risk of the hand holding the ring being struck by bands of rubber or by the ammunition itself, something all too common with a traditional slingshot. Second, aim feels more natural as you can aim down the line of your entire arm rather than trying to use the Y of the slingshot as a site. And third, it’s quick and easy to load ammo into the Pocket Shot; you just drop it into the pouch rather than having to carefully grip it through a slender strip of material.
The original Pocket Shot has been joined by a smaller version, the Pocket Shot Junior. Both the OG and the Jr. can easily fit into a pocket, thus, like… their name. This compact size is convenient for everyday storage or for a rather odd approach to covert self defense, but also makes these a great tool for the hiker/camper/hunter. Should the need arise, a Pocket Shot could be used to hunt small game or even to ward off a larger animal. You’re not going to kill a bear or bull moose with one of these things, but if you’re out of other options, bouncing a few steel balls off an animals face may well deter it from a pursuit. Bear spray or a .44 magnum are also effective in that regard.
And if you want to go full throttle here, there is even a Pocket Shot adapted to fire arrows and/or spears (for fishing, not for fighting the Persian hordes). Just remember, gentlemen, weapon, not toy. But fun nonetheless. In fact… OK, all the more.
To get your own Pocket Shot, check out their website here.
