Your Guide to Buying Hunting Catapults in the UK

Whether you're after a reliable tool for target practice in the garden or you're serious about hunting with a catapult, choosing the right slingshot can make a real difference to your accuracy, comfort, and enjoyment. This buying guide breaks down the key things to consider before you buy, compares the major brands we stock, and answers the most common questions we get from customers shopping for catapults UK wide.

Why Buy Your Hunting Catapults From Us?

We've been supplying shooting sports equipment for years, and our catapult range has been curated with the same care we give to our BB guns and airsoft products. Here's what you get when you shop with us:

• Price Match Guarantee — find a lower price elsewhere and we'll match it, so you always get the best deal on your slingshot.
• Fast UK shipping with free delivery on orders over £75.
• Expert customer support from a team that actually uses the products we sell.
• A huge range of catapults from trusted brands like Barnett, Milbro, Simple Shot, and more — all in one place.

Types of Catapults and Slingshots

Not all slingshots are built the same. Understanding the different types will help you pick the right one for your intended use.

Standard Frame Catapults

These are your classic Y-frame slingshots — compact, lightweight, and easy to carry. Models like the Milbro Catapult Original Metal Thumb Press Slingshot or the Anglo Arms High Velocity Pocket Slingshot fall into this category. They're ideal for beginners getting into target shooting and are simple to maintain. If you just want something reliable and affordable to get started, a standard frame is the way to go.

Wrist Brace Catapults

A wrist brace (or arm rest) stabilises your wrist as you draw, reducing fatigue and improving consistency over longer sessions. The High Power Slingshot with Arm Rest models we stock are popular among those stepping up from basic slingshots. If you're practising regularly or planning on hunting with a catapult, the added support is well worth it.

Folding Slingshots

Designed for portability, folding catapults like the Armex Black Shadow or the SMK Deluxe Folding Slingshot collapse down small enough to slip into a pocket or rucksack. They're a brilliant choice if you're out hiking or want something discreet to take to the woods.

Professional and Compound Slingshots

At the top end, you'll find compound designs and precision slingshots fitted with sights and stabilisers. The Deluxe Compound Eagle Slingshot and the Milbro Deluxe Slingshot with Laser Sight are excellent examples. These are serious bits of kit aimed at experienced shooters who want maximum accuracy.

Barnett vs Milbro vs Simple Shot — Which Brand Is Right for You?

Three of the biggest names in our catalogue each bring something different to the table.

Barnett Catapults

Barnett dominate the mid-range market. Their King Rat series — including the Black Widow, Havoc, and Cobra variants — offer robust aluminium frames with magnum power bands. The Barnett Strike Nine and King Rat Ambush step things up further with upgraded bands for more velocity. If you want a proven, well-built catapult at a sensible price, Barnett is hard to beat.

Milbro Slingshots

Milbro offer a broad spread from budget-friendly originals right up to adjustable, flat-band designs with laser sights. Their flat power bands deliver a snappier release compared to traditional tube bands, which many shooters prefer for accuracy. For someone asking what's the best catapult UK shops offer at the entry level, Milbro is a strong recommendation.

Simple Shot

Simple Shot are a bit of a cult favourite. The Scout, Torque, and Axiom Ocularis are beautifully engineered, ergonomic, and designed with serious shooters in mind. The Dead Ringer is particularly popular for its pinpoint accuracy. These sit at a slightly higher price point but deliver outstanding performance.

Practical Buying Advice for Hunting Catapults

Before you add a catapult to your basket, consider these practical pointers:

Band Type Matters

Regarding slingshot bands, tube bands are durable and easy to replace, making them ideal for beginners. Flat bands generate higher velocity and are generally preferred for precision target work and hunting. Many of our Milbro and Simple Shot models come with flat bands as standard.

Ammunition Choice

Most catapults fire steel ball bearings (typically 8mm or 9.5mm), but some shooters use clay or lead shot. you can find out slingshot ammo here

Hunting with a catapult:​ Legal Considerations

Catapults are legal to buy and own in the UK without a licence. However, hunting with a catapult is subject to wildlife and countryside laws. It's your responsibility to ensure you're using your slingshot lawfully and safely. Always shoot on private land with the landowner's permission, and never fire towards roads, footpaths, or other people.

Budget

Our range starts from just a few pounds for simple pocket slingshots and goes up to premium compound models. The sweet spot for most buyers is in the £15–£35 range, where you'll find well-made catapults with wrist braces and quality bands.

Barnett King Rat vs Simple Shot Scout — A Quick Comparison

These two are among our most popular sellers and represent different approaches to slingshot design.

• Barnett King Rat: Aluminium frame, tube bands, wrist brace, aggressive styling. Great all-rounder at a competitive price. Suits beginners and intermediate shooters.
• Simple Shot Scout: Compact HDPE frame, flat bands, minimalist design, incredibly lightweight. Favoured by experienced slingshot enthusiasts who value precision and portability over brute power.

If you're new to catapults, the King Rat's wrist brace gives reassuring stability. If you've shot before and want something refined, the Scout's accuracy is impressive. Both are excellent choices — it comes down to your shooting style and priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are hunting catapults legal in the UK?

Yes. Catapults are legal to purchase, own, and carry in the UK. There is no age restriction on buying one, though retailers may apply their own policies. Using a catapult to hunt is legal only for certain pest species and must comply with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Always check current legislation before hunting.

What is the best catapult UK buyers can get for beginners?

For beginners, we'd recommend a wrist-brace model like the Barnett King Rat Black Widow or the High Power Slingshot with Arm Rest. They're forgiving, sturdy, and affordable. The Milbro Original is another solid starting point if you prefer a classic frame without a brace.

How powerful are professional slingshots?

A well-made catapult with flat bands or magnum power bands can launch steel shot at speeds exceeding 60 metres per second. That's more than enough for target shooting and pest control at sensible ranges. Power depends on band type, draw length, and ammunition weight.

How do I maintain my catapult's bands?

Bands degrade over time, especially in sunlight and cold weather. Store your slingshot indoors, keep bands lightly dusted with talcum powder, and replace them as soon as you notice cracks or loss of elasticity. Replacement bands are inexpensive and easy to fit on most models. Browse our blog for maintenance tips and shooting guides.

Can I use a catapult for target practice in my garden?

Absolutely — garden plinking is one of the most popular uses for catapults UK buyers enjoy. Set up a proper backstop (a thick blanket or purpose-built pellet trap works well), ensure no projectiles can leave your property, and always be aware of your surroundings. It's a brilliant way to improve your aim without needing to travel to a range.

How to shoot a slingshot