Ammunition & Ballistics Flashcards
7 cards from real FBI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Ammunition & Ballistics flashcards as text
What is 'bullet drop' in external ballistics?
Answer: The downward deviation of a bullet's path caused by gravity
Bullet drop is the downward curve in a bullet's trajectory caused by gravity continuously pulling the projectile downward during its flight.
Why is 'overpenetration' a critical concern for FBI agents in populated environments?
Answer: A bullet that exits a target continues traveling and may strike unintended persons
Overpenetration occurs when a bullet passes completely through the intended target and continues, posing a lethal threat to bystanders or other unintended targets.
What factor most significantly determines a bullet's ability to retain velocity at long range?
Answer: The bullet's ballistic coefficient (BC)
The ballistic coefficient (BC) is a numerical value that quantifies how efficiently a bullet overcomes air resistance; a higher BC means the bullet retains velocity better over distance.
What is the primary purpose of rifling in a gun barrel?
Answer: To impart spin on the bullet for gyroscopic stability and improved accuracy
Rifling consists of helical grooves machined into the bore that spin the bullet as it travels down the barrel, providing gyroscopic stability and dramatically improving long-range accuracy.
Which standard handgun cartridge did the FBI adopt in 2015, replacing the .40 S&W?
Answer: 9mm Luger (9x19mm)
The FBI transitioned back to the 9mm cartridge in 2015, citing modern hollow point advancements that equaled .40 S&W terminal performance, combined with reduced recoil and higher capacity.
What is 'sectional density' in bullet performance?
Answer: The ratio of bullet weight to its cross-sectional area, indicating penetration potential
Sectional density is the ratio of bullet mass to its cross-sectional area; a higher value generally indicates greater potential for deep penetration.
What is a 'frangible' bullet, and what is its primary law enforcement application?
Answer: A bullet designed to disintegrate on hard surfaces, reducing ricochet hazards during close-range training
Frangible bullets are made from compressed metal powder and break apart upon striking hard surfaces, making them ideal for indoor range training where ricochet is a safety concern.