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Materials

UK-Made Wooden and Natural-Material Catapults

Natural materials give a catapult its character, but they behave differently in the hand and over the years. This guide compares the handle materials we work with and who each suits.

By TJ Catapults · 6 min read · Updated October 2026

When people search for UK-made wooden catapults, they usually want something natural, individual and built to last. Wood is the classic choice, but it is one of several natural materials that make a good handle. This guide compares the ones we actually use, so you can pick on feel, durability and look.

Handle materials compared

MaterialFeelDurabilityLookBest for
HardwoodWarm, lightGood with sound grainClassic, varied grainTraditionalists, all-day shooting
Deer antlerDense, texturedVery goodNatural, one of a kindCollectors, outdoor shooters
Camel boneSmooth, coolGoodPale, refinedPremium pieces and gifts
Recycled Stihl partsSolid, sculpted gripExcellentIndustrial, distinctiveHard use, first catapult

Wood: the traditional choice

A natural or shaped hardwood fork is light, comfortable and quiet in the hand. Grain direction is the key: a fork cut with the grain following the curve of the Y resists splitting under band load. Finish matters too. A sealed surface resists sweat and rain, which is why a plain stick fork is a different product to a finished one.

Handmade UK catapult with a natural antler handle
An antler handle piece. The natural curve gives a secure, textured grip.

Antler and bone: natural, individual, long-lasting

Deer antler is dense and weather tolerant, and its texture gives a confident grip. Camel bone is smoother and paler and suits our premium pieces. Because these are natural, every handle differs. You can see this across our current stock, where two pieces from the same style never match exactly.

Handmade camel bone handle catapult
A camel bone handle: smooth, pale and unmistakably natural.

Recycled Stihl handles: tough and different

Not everything natural is wood. We also build catapults from recycled Stihl chainsaw parts. They are tough, ergonomic and give a sculpted grip that suits rough outdoor use. They are also our most affordable handmade range at around £45.

Handmade catapult built from a recycled Stihl chainsaw handle
A recycled Stihl handle catapult. Rugged, practical and made in the UK.

Caring for a natural-material catapult

  • Store dry and away from heat sources.
  • Inspect the fork tips and band seats regularly for wear or hairline cracks.
  • Replace bands before they perish. See our guide to flat and tube bands.
  • Do not overdraw bands beyond what the frame is built for.

Want a piece made around your hand size or preferred material? Get in touch about a bespoke build, or read how handmade catapults are made in the UK.

Frequently asked questions

Are wooden catapults strong enough?

A well-chosen, well-finished hardwood fork is strong enough for normal use with standard bands. Grain direction and a sound, defect-free blank matter more than the species. Avoid overdrawing very heavy bands on a light fork.

How do I look after a natural-material catapult?

Keep it dry, out of direct heat and away from long damp storage. Wipe it down after use, check the fork tips and band seats for wear, and replace bands before they perish.

Is antler better than wood?

Neither is better outright. Antler is dense, textured and durable with a distinctive look. Wood is lighter and warmer in the hand. Choose on feel and look.

What is a Stihl handle catapult?

A catapult whose handle is built from a recycled Stihl chainsaw part, giving a solid, distinctive and hard-wearing grip. It is a good way to reuse metal and plastic that would otherwise be scrapped.

See the catapults in person

Every catapult in the shop is handmade in the UK by us, and photographed exactly as it ships.

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