Influence of the shooting distance on the depth of penetration of the bullet into the replacement material for air gun weapons

Abstract

In the last few years, it has been possible to see an increasing trend of aggression in society, leading to the more frequent use of weapons in conflicts. The using of air weapons is also increasing. But are these weapons really dangerous, and what is the effect of shooting distance on the depth of the shot? The article tries to answer these questions. The paper uses ballistic experiment to gain knowledge on which a qualitative evaluation is used. The shooting experiment is based on the firing of physical substitution models made of 20% ballistic gelatine from an air gun with a calibre of 4.5 mm, at a distance of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 m. The impact velocities of the projectile were measured using optical ballistic gates and using high-speed cameras were recorded missile passes ballistic gelatin. The depths of the shots were then measured using callipers, and the maximum dimensions and the shape of the temporary cavities of the shots were determined using optical recordings from the high-speed camera. It was found that the depth of the shot decreases with increasing shooting distance. The same applies to the maximum volumes of temporary cavities. These trends are almost linear and are associated with a drop in the impact velocity of the projectile hitting the test target. This pilot experiment serves for the initial verification of the hypothesis of the effect of shooting distance on the depth of shot in air gun weapons and provides essential information for further in-depth investigation.