Sling

Sling

Sling: the ancient means for hurling missiles against the enemy(called also a swepe) occurs in one or two coats of arms, though not in any ancient ones, so far as has been observed. The sling, or staff-sling, is represented as in the margin.

The sweep(more correctly spelt swepe) is used as if synonymous. It is, however, the same as the balista, and is so blazoned in one coat; it is a more formidable engine of warfare, similar to the catapult or mangonel, whence in one case the play on the name.

Sable, a staff-sling in bend between two pheons argent--CAWARDEN, or CARDEN, co. Cheshire and Hereford.

Gules, a sling or hand-bow between two broad arrows argent--CAWARDEN, co. Stafford.

Argent, a sweep(or sling) azure charged with a stone or--MAGNALL.

Argent, on a mount vert a balista azure charged with a stone proper, a chief per fesse embattled or and gules--MAGNALL, Manchester and London; granted 1765.