What aspect of gun powder can affect the performance of a bullet?

-The spark from the primer ignites the gunpowder. Gas converted from the burning powder rapidly expands in the cartridge. The expanding gas forces the bullet out of the cartridge and down the barrel with great speed.

When did metallic cartridges come out?

These cartridges have a relatively low muzzle velocity of around 700 ft/s (210 m/s). French gunsmith Benjamin Houllier improved the Lefaucheux pinfire cardboard cartridge and patented in Paris in 1846, the first fully metallic pinfire cartridge containing powder (and a pinfire), in a metallic cartridge.

How is gunpowder residue detected?

Gunshot Residue Currently, there are the two commonly used techniques for GSR collection: the SEM disc lifting method and atomic absorption (AA) swabbing methods (as shown in Fig. 7.29 below). Investigators should consult with their local forensic laboratory as to which test the laboratory performs.

How far can centerfire bullet travel?

A centerfire bullet can travel several miles. Small shot can travel 200–350 yards. Larger shot can travel over 600 yards.

What is the difference between a cartridge and a case?

Cartridge: A unit of ammunition, made up of a cartridge case, primer, powder, and bullet. Cartridge case: The container for all the other components that comprise a cartridge. Sometimes incorrectly called a shell, shell casing, brass, or a hull.

Can you wash off gun residue?

GSR is like talcum powder, and is easily shaken or washed off the hands of the guilty party. In fact, sweat is enough to wash it off – so it moves around easily. GSR is found in most American police cars, police stations and investigation rooms.

How do you fill a musket barrel with powder?

Hold the musket with the muzzle pointing up. Pour the rest of the powder from the cartridge into the barrel. Insert a lead ball into the barrel. Push the cartridge paper (called wadding) into the barrel.

How do you Prime a musket without spilling the powder?

Pull the frizzen back, shutting the pan – the metal lip of the frizzen is now vertical. The weapon is now primed and the musket may be turned around without spilling the powder out of the pan. Hold the musket with the muzzle pointing up. Pour the rest of the powder from the cartridge into the barrel. Insert a lead ball into the barrel.

How do you reload a musket?

Muskets or any flintlock firearms are generally always reloaded via the muzzle like a cannon. First, a ‘powder horn’ or ‘powder flask’ is used to pour ‘grains of shot’ aka gunpowder down the muzzle and into the bore where it settles at the breech.

How do you get black powder out of a musket?

Remove one of the cartridges and bite down on the tail of the cartridge to tear it open. Half cock the musket by pushing back on the hammer with flint attached (called a dogshead). Push the frizzen forward, opening the pan (or flash pan) and pour a small amount of black powder from the cartridge.