Sling
Pitcher® FAQ's - (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What are the advantages of the Sling Pitcher over conventional
machines?
The Sling Pitcher is completely portable, requires no electricity or
batteries, is light weight (about 20# with accessories and the carrying
case), and it fits easily in the back seat or trunk of the smallest
car. The operator controls every pitch, for both speed and location.
The change-up, can be simulated better by the Sling Pitcher than by
any machine at any price.
2. What is the Sling Pitcher made of?
The Sling Pitcher is built of an ABS/Polycarbonate composite, the same
type of material that is used in motorcycle helmets. This lightweight,
durable material gives the Sling Pitcher an ideal combination of rigidity,
flexibility, and strength. The Sling Pitcher bench system has been load
tested to well over 1000#. The elastics are a quality latex rubber,
and the pouch is made of high grade leather.
3. Can the Sling Pitcher throw different pitches?
The ball will pick up different movements depending on how it is placed
in the pouch, and how the seams are aligned. The most effective pitch
is the change up, which can be mastered in just a few practice shots
by most anyone. A breaking ball can be thrown to break either way, simply
by moving the ball to the outside edge of the pouch, but requires a
little more practice. The Knuckle Ball, especially with a foam ball,
is a hair raiser.
4. How accurate is the Sling Pitcher? Does it
require a great deal of skill?
The accuracy depends on the skill of the operator, and the type of ball
that is used. Most catch on quickly, & can consistently hit the
strike zone from 35 to 45 feet, even those that did not grow up with
a sling shot in their hip pocket. The trick is to use a consistent,
fluid, pull and release motion, and by following the operation instructions
provided in the manual.
Perforated plastic balls, tennis balls, and regulation baseball and
softballs are the easiest to shoot accurately. The foam balls can pick
up considerable movement, especially when shot as a knuckle ball. More
experienced hitters like the challenge they present.
5. Your website states that the Sling Pitcher
will throw 80 mph. Is this affected by the type of ball you use?
The Sling Pitcher will throw the 9" perforated plastic and foam
balls into the 80s. It will throw a regulation baseball about 70 mph,
and a regulation softball 50+ mph. The speed, from lobs to heat, is
completely the choice of the operator.
6. What comes with the Sling Pitcher?
Every Sling Pitcher comes with a convenient storage/carry bag, a set
of Fly Ball Arms, and an assortment of 12 plastic and foam practice
balls.
7. What are the Fly Ball Arms, and what is there
advantage?
If the Sling Pitcher is never used for pitching, it is well
worth the price just for the Fly Ball option. The Fly Ball Arms slip
into place in seconds and allows a coach or a parent to shoot fly balls
accurately, to over 150' high and 175' out. This allows a coach to work
on technique and positioning, since he knows within a few feet, where
every ball will go. Even younger children can effectively throw outfield
practice, or just blast away in the back yard.
8. How is the Sling Pitcher used for Catcher training,
as referenced in the video?
The Sling Pitcher allows the operator to position every pitch,
including balls in the dirt. For younger catchers, or those still intimidated
by the ball, plastic or foam balls allow young players to get the technique
down, and learn to trust their equipment, before moving up to regulation
balls. The Sling Pitcher can also throw effective pop-ups for catcher
or infield practice.
9. How long will the elastics and pouch last?
When shooting regulation baseballs at maximum speeds, you can expect
1000 to 2000 pitches. Regulation softballs wear the elastics faster.
Under lighter use, the bands will typically last several weeks, if not
months. Replacement elastics can be ordered in bulk, at a very fair
price. The pouch should last multiple seasons, though periodically,
a bad piece of leather will slip through our quality control, or the
sewing may come loose. If such happens, the pouch will be covered under
our warranty.
10. How critical is it to use the Sling Guard?
When throwing perforated plastic or foam balls, especially to younger
hitters, the Sling Guard may be optional, though even these balls can
sting, especially if the operator is hit in the face. It is always recommended
the operator use at least eye protection. When throwing regulation balls,
it is highly recommended a Sling Guard be used. Other screen protection
can be used, but eventually, a ball will come through any opening that
is not protected, such as the Sling Guard is. Sling Pitcher, Inc., can
not be liable for any injury to an operator who does not protect himself.
Even with the Sling Guard, the operator should always use protective
head and face gear.
