The Modeling and Application of Small Arms Wound Ballistics
Abstract
Due to renewed interest in flechette projectiles as antipersonnel devices, attention has once again been focused on Army methods for evaluating projectile effectiveness. This report describes some of the early wound ballistic work and presents the rationale and theory behind the current methodology for assessing small arms would effects. A bibliography of technical reports on the subject is included. The writing of this memorandum was prompted by the need to redress undue criticisms of certain Army methods involving the estimation of antipersonnel weapon effects. These criticisms, which have appeared in recent magazine and technical journal articles, have challenged results of some Army small-arms effectiveness studies on the basis of alleged deficiencies in the underlying assessment methodology. In particular, the appropriateness of using kinetic energy as an indicator of bullet wounding potential, the importance of temporary wound cavities, and the size and formulation of tissue simulant targets were questioned and other related issues raised.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA240295
Entities
People
- David N. Neades
- Russell N. Prather
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory