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What is the difference between a hammer grip and an extended grip? How do I properly grip my throwstick?
A variety of grips are important to learn and differentiate for throwing hunting boomerangs.
Most of our models use a hammer grip, as pictured below. This grip allows for maximal delivery of force to the stick. It tends to feel more crude and less ergonomic with smaller sticks but more natural with bigger ones.
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All throwsticks may also be used with an extended grip, if one's wrist is strong enough. Generally this will produce a shorter and more floaty flight. The advantage is enhanced ergonomics and feel, but the disadvantage is less power can be imparted to larger or heavier sticks and so less overall range will be achieved.
The Sidewinder Scout was designed for use with the extended grip and is best used with it, as illustrated below. In this grip the thumb is extended along the top middle of the grip as opposed to wrapping with the other fingers. The extended grip allows for more instinctive wrist alignment for most individuals.
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The Kimberley Stinger has a tapered grip and it is held by the trailing arm of the stick rather than the lead arm.
To start out, place the trailing arm of the Stinger on your open hand with the flat side against your palm.
Close your hand over the the Stinger firmly and make a fist around it, using the same grip you would use when holding a hammer. Focus grip strength around the edges of the stick.
Adjust exact placement for comfort until you get the formula exactly right for you, while holding as far out to the end of the stick as you comfortably can. Pictured below.
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Grip, wrist alignment and the distance the throwing hand is out from the side of the body at release all have an impact on the alignment of the stick and the power and spin imparted to it. It can take practice and experimentation to find what best works for you. Remember that in the end what matters is the attitude, direction and energy imparted to the stick itself.