Why can't a Cleric use a sling?

Question

So by the book 1st Edition AD&D, clerics can't use a sling.

Other than game balance (it essentially means that other than the odd thrown hammer clerics have no ranged weapon ability which further distinguishes them from fighters) is there any justification for this? Bows I can kind of see (they're pointy) but not slings.

Answer 1

The primary reasoning for this is because of Gygax's study of anthropology.

Priests during the dark ages often favored staves and other blunt objects that could be used more for policing and self defense against other weapons than actual harm. Thus if used properly they would not cause bleeding (directly) but maybe severe bruising or a broken bone.

EDIT 1: p.166 of "The Historical Atlas of Knights and Castles", Dr. Ian Barnes

The 13th Century Mace ... was a cavalry and elite weapon, especially favored by fighting clerics (who would rather crack a skull than spill blood).

Also This article includes

The clergy was forbidden to shed blood, and thus a sword was inhibited, it might have been thought was sufficient to keep them from the battle field. But not so; They adopted the mace; though they could not cut a man's throat, yet they might break his head

Answer 2

Let me show you the wonder of 1st and 2nd ed AD&D.

You get with your DM, and if they agree, or if you ARE the DM... Clerics can now use slings.

I had a DM that would let you wield whatever you wanted, but you'd suffer some heavy experience penalties. Our group rolls for Magic Item privileges. d20, highest roller to lowest, and you'd get to pick from the assorted treasure we recovered. Well, one the players was a bit of a jerk, and his mage selects this fairly enchanted bastard sword, and leaves a wand, knowing full well that no one else could use it. Like I said, jerk. He spends the next couple of sessions swinging this sword and having some success. Well, comes the end of that adventure, and the DM hands out cards with experience rewards. The rest of go up a level, maybe close to two. Guess what he got? He got a note telling him that his efforts have paid off, and he's just started a new career as a warrior. 1 experience point, 1st level fighter with a magic user's ability scores. LESSON LEARNED.

Answer 3

My understanding is that slingshot generally cause bleeding on impact and I believe the whole "no edged or pointy weapons" cleric restriction stems from a "do not draw blood" prohibition. But, I do not have rule books at hand.