In the west, one is likely to associate the slingshot with mischievous young boys. In Africa, the same is true. Slingshots are carried by young boys for hunting birds and bats in the forest, one of the rare sources of protein in their diets. However, in the forest, danger abounds. These slings served not only to down the prey, but also to protect the boys from snakes, dangerous insects, and the occasional predator. The slings are usually made by the father of the boy who may or may not be a sculptor by trade. However, wealthy families mostly commissioned sculptors to carve slings for their boys. These two factors explain the general discrepancies in the artistic quality of the slings. The carvings that decorate the handles are talismanic, meant to protect the boys. Most carvings are of deities or woodland spirits. Other subjects such as the representations of weapons or animals enhance hunting power and the chances of success. The variety is virtually endless. Another favorite subject matter is masks. There is a traditional belief that the mask carvings function best as protectors if they are facing the source of danger, and "right-side up," rather than upside down. For this reason, a sling will often have two masks, facing in opposite directions such as this charming example. The sling portion was usually rubber cut from old inner tubes. When one imagines venturing through the heart of the forest armed only with this small slingshot, the bravery of this young boys becomes apparent, as does the need for the protective forces that decorate the handle.