Defining the Terms: Unpacking the Components Bullet Casing (Cartridge Case): The Heart of Small Arms Ammunition The bullet casing, also known as a cartridge case, is the fundamental building block of ammunition used in handguns, rifles, and other small arms. Its primary purpose is to house the propellant, the bullet itself, and the primer. Imagine … Read more
Defining Straight-Walled Cartridges: The Cylindrical Standard What Defines It At their core, straight-walled cartridges are defined by their cylindrical shape. The sides of the cartridge case, from the base to the shoulder (or, in many cases, to the case mouth itself), are relatively parallel. This design offers a robust construction and distinct advantages in certain … Read more
Tracing the Roots of Ballistic Twins (That Aren’t Identical) The range, the smell of gunpowder, the thrill of the shot – it’s a world many of us enjoy. But before you squeeze the trigger, you need to know more than just how to aim. You need to know what’s in your rifle. The world of … Read more
Understanding the Basics: Federal Laws Federal Laws The primary federal law governing the sale and possession of ammunition is the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA). This act, and its subsequent amendments, lays the groundwork for federal regulations concerning firearms and ammunition. The GCA focuses on preventing ammunition from falling into the hands of those … Read more
Understanding the 7.62×51 NATO Cartridge What is 7.62x51mm NATO? At the heart of this discussion lies the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. It’s crucial to understand this round’s origins and purpose to fully appreciate the context of its military surplus counterparts. Developed in the 1950s, this cartridge was intended to standardize ammunition across NATO forces. This standardization … Read more
Understanding Ammo Degradation and Why Proper Storage Matters The primary enemy of your ammo The sound of a shot fired. The feeling of confidence that comes with knowing you’re prepared. For many, this is a reality made possible by owning ammunition. But what happens to your ammunition supply when you aren’t using it immediately? Long-term … Read more
Understanding the Genesis of the Beast JD Jones and the Birth of a Ballistic Giant The world of firearms and ammunition is one of constant innovation, pushing the boundaries of ballistics and engineering. Within this realm, a few cartridges stand apart, not just for their power but for their sheer audacity. One such round, a … Read more
Understanding the Language of Bullets The realm of firearms relies on two primary systems for measuring bullet diameter: the caliber system and the millimeter system. Both have unique origins and applications, and understanding the interplay between them is vital for navigating the vast landscape of ammunition options. What is Caliber? Caliber is a measurement of … Read more
The Core Components: Examining Raw Material Costs Copper: The Copper Coin of the Realm Copper plays a vital role in ammunition manufacturing. It’s a crucial element in the construction of bullet jackets. The demand for copper is not confined to the ammunition industry; it’s essential for various industries. This drives a fluctuating global market. The … Read more
Introduction From the satisfying click of a bolt-action rifle to the controlled burst of a pistol during a target shooting session, firearms have captivated human interest for centuries. Whether used for hunting, sport, or self-defense, firearms play a role in various aspects of modern life, and understanding the components that make them function is essential. … Read more
