OTT vs TTF: What’s the Difference in Modern Catapult Shooting?
In the slingshot world, two shooting styles dominate the conversation: OTT (Over‑The‑Top) and TTF (Through‑The‑Forks). Both are proven, both are accurate, and both have loyal followings — but they each offer a different feel, sight picture, and band behaviour. If you’re new to catapults or just curious about which style suits you best, here’s a simple breakdown.
What Is OTT?
OTT (Over‑The‑Top) means the bands sit on top of the forks and the ammo leaves the frame above the tips. This setup gives you:
A clean, open sight picture
A slightly higher reference point
A smooth, predictable release
Less chance of fork hits for many shooters
OTT is the most common style in modern target shooting, and it’s the standard setup for most bandsets — including mine — unless you request otherwise.
What Is TTF?
TTF (Through‑The‑Forks) means the bands sit on the sides of the forks and the ammo travels between them. Shooters who love TTF often prefer:
A lower aiming reference
A more traditional, instinctive feel
A wider fork gap
A different anchor and sight alignment
TTF can be incredibly accurate in the right hands, but it does require a consistent release and good form to avoid fork hits
Which Style Should You Choose?
There’s no “better” option — just what suits your shooting style.
If you like a clean, simple sight picture, go OTT.
If you prefer a lower reference and a classic feel, try TTF.
If you shoot competitions, you’ll see both styles on the podium.
Most shooters eventually try both and settle on the one that feels natural.
