Internal Ballisitcs

Question 1

Internal ballistics

Answer 1

A chain of events occurs when a firearm is discharged
- an excess of 3500 atmospheres and the projectile being propelled from the barrel at velocities in excess of 1000m.s-1
Happens in 0.02 seconds

Question 2

Lock time

Answer 2

The time between the activation of the firing mechanism and ignition of the primer charge
Dependant on the design of the trigger mechanism, which links the trigger to the firing pin assembly

Question 3

Trigger mechanism

Answer 3

A wholly mechanical system
Consists of a system of levers, known as seats, which hold the firing pin or hammer under spring pressure until the trigger is operated
Some experimentation with solenoid triggers in the past, based on electromagnets, but the mechanical systems will prevail for now

Normally the alleged culprit in accidental shootings

Question 4

Lock time process

Answer 4

When the Firearm is cocked the firing pin spring is compressed and then mechanically held by a sear
The energy stored with the spring is then released when the trigger is pulled and is used to activate the primer