The idea of a shotgun slingshot sounds good at first, but then one realizes that the velocity at which rubber returns from its stretched state to its normal state (elasticity) is somewhere between 70 and 80 m/s (229 and 262 fps) on average, albeit that tapering does increase that velocity to some extent. This implies that the intended .177 BB's with their extremely low mass (0.3 grams roughly) will not have a velocity sufficient to kill rats, even at short range.
If nailing those unpleasant (intelligent) disease-ridden critters is indeed too challenging with a slingshot using heavier ammo (say 0.38 to .40 caliber, ideally lead), I would resort to using a 12 ft/lbs (UK legal limit) scoped air rifle, and if possible, use night sights when the rats go foraging in the dark: an IR illumination system will make shooting them significantly easier. A PCP air rifle with a mounted sound moderator can hardly be heard: if anything, the impact of the pellets will make more noise than the rifle itself. Of course, a regular spring-piston air rifle will get the job done too, but there is more noise.
I would suggest .22 caliber pointed lead pellets for maximum penetration, either H&N, or the Bisley brand pellets - see here:
https://www.hn-sport.de/en/air-gun-hunting/hornet-22
and
https://www.bisley-uk.com/product.php?i=BIPMA&c=274
This should help to solve the rat infestation problem to some extent. Too much of a challenge with a slingshot, unfortunately.
If nailing those unpleasant (intelligent) disease-ridden critters is indeed too challenging with a slingshot using heavier ammo (say 0.38 to .40 caliber, ideally lead), I would resort to using a 12 ft/lbs (UK legal limit) scoped air rifle, and if possible, use night sights when the rats go foraging in the dark: an IR illumination system will make shooting them significantly easier. A PCP air rifle with a mounted sound moderator can hardly be heard: if anything, the impact of the pellets will make more noise than the rifle itself. Of course, a regular spring-piston air rifle will get the job done too, but there is more noise.
I would suggest .22 caliber pointed lead pellets for maximum penetration, either H&N, or the Bisley brand pellets - see here:
https://www.hn-sport.de/en/air-gun-hunting/hornet-22
and
https://www.bisley-uk.com/product.php?i=BIPMA&c=274
This should help to solve the rat infestation problem to some extent. Too much of a challenge with a slingshot, unfortunately.