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US 6,439,126 B1Granted
Enhanced kinetic energy projectile
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
InventorsKevin D. Kennedy, Brian J. Smith
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A steel projectile assuming the general shape of a teardrop compensates for the lower density of the material as compared to lead and still achieves penetration into the target that is comparable to spherical lead pellets. Additional benefit of the elongated exterior geometry of the projectile is less scatter and less aerodynamic drag during flight.
Claims2
An enhanced kinetic energy projectile shaped to maximize effective penetration while minimizing aerodynamic drag during flight, said projectile comprising:
- a steel shell having a pre-selected thickness and a hollow, air-filled interior, said steel shell assuming a teardrop shape, said shape comprising a front rounded end encompassing a first radius;
- a rear rounded end encompassing a second radius, said first radius being shorter than said second radius;
- a tapered section between said rounded ends;
- and a lead insert, said insert being positioned inside said shell adjacent to said front rounded end to impart greater in-flight stability to said projectile.
1 more element
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.