The mazzafionda (a word consisting of "mazza" and "slingshot") is a primitive hunting tool made up of a wooden fork at the ends of which are attached strips of elastic material.
I guarantee they are still used to hunt. It is used for hobby, for fun, but also as a kind of weapon that can easily be constructed with simple materials.
Pier Paolo Pasolini quotes her as saying: Frate Ninetto ... pulls out the mummy sling, bends to take a saucer and seeks (from Uccellacci and Birds).
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