Why are pistol bullets dull and rifle bullets sharp? (4 photos)

Ammunition intended for different types of weapons differs from each other in appearance and other technical characteristics. So, for example, pistol bullets are predominantly “blunt”, while rifle bullets, on the contrary, are pointed.





This difference is not a strict rule, however, to a greater extent, the shapes of pistol and rifle cartridges are exactly the same.

What is this connected with?

Aerodynamic aspect

First of all, the explanation lies in the aerodynamic characteristics of the cartridges. The tactical purpose of rifle bullets is the range of destruction of an object.

The gunpowder charge in rifles is very high, it pushes the bullet out at a speed that exceeds the speed of sound. The sharp shape of the cartridge in this case improves flight speed and makes it more stable and predictable. In addition, sharp rifle cartridges have a heavier mass than pistol cartridges, and together with their sharpness, this improves the shot range.



Bullet ballistics

Bullets of this shape and size will not be relevant for a pistol, since its powder charge and initial shot velocity are much lower. In such a situation, a sharp cartridge will not perform as well as in the case of a rifle. However, this is not necessary, since the pistol is intended for other tactical situations.

Features of hitting an object with a rifle bullet

Without delving into the physical aspect, we can briefly outline the following: the more energy expended at the beginning of the flight, the farther the bullet flies, and the more energy it will transfer to the object it hits. Consequently, more damage will be caused.

However, in reality with rifle bullets everything is somewhat different. Yes, the bullet flies further and faster, but due to the speed, the energy is consumed very quickly. The sharp form is designed to reduce energy consumption as much as possible.





Ricochet from a soft surface

The energy is retained, but not in such large quantities as at the beginning of the shot. Therefore, sharp rifle bullets often fly through or ricochet. Such cartridges will be effective during military operations, when through and ricochets can cause greater damage to the enemy.

Hit by pistol bullets

As already mentioned, the flight speed of a pistol cartridge and a powder charge of this weapon is much lower than that of a rifle. Consequently, the amount of energy transferred to the ammunition at the very beginning of the shot is less. However, due to speed and power, energy is lost at a much slower rate.



The bullet did not penetrate the bulletproof vest, but definitely stopped the intruder

The rounded shape of the bullet will not cause such negative consequences as in the case of a rifle bullet, and will transfer all its energy to the object. In addition, the blunt tip of the pistol cartridge enhances its stopping effect.

Consequently, the damaging effect will be stronger and more powerful - there will be no talk of any ricochets or through wounds here. This is necessary during special police operations, when ricochets are completely unnecessary and the object must be hit for sure. Therefore, in police practice it is pistols and rounded cartridges that are used.