GSI Ammunition & Ballistics Flashcards
6 cards from real GSI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 GSI Ammunition & Ballistics flashcards as text
Which propellant type is used in modern centerfire cartridges?
Answer: Smokeless powder
Modern centerfire cartridges use smokeless powder, which burns more efficiently and produces less fouling than black powder.
What is 'over-penetration' in the context of defensive ammunition?
Answer: A bullet that passes completely through the target and continues beyond
Over-penetration occurs when a bullet passes completely through an intended target, posing a risk to bystanders or objects beyond the target.
How should ammunition be stored to maintain reliability and safety?
Answer: In a cool, dry location away from heat sources and moisture
Ammunition should be stored in a cool, dry environment away from heat and moisture to prevent degradation of the propellant, primer, and case.
What is the function of a ballistic coefficient (BC) for a bullet?
Answer: It describes how efficiently a bullet overcomes air resistance in flight
A ballistic coefficient is a numerical value describing how well a bullet retains velocity and resists wind drift as it travels through the air.
What should a GSI instructor teach students about using mixed or unknown ammunition?
Answer: Never use mixed, unlabeled, or unknown ammunition as it poses serious safety risks
Using mixed, unlabeled, or unknown ammunition is dangerous because incorrect caliber or load data can cause catastrophic firearm failure or injury.
What is a 'squib load' and why is it dangerous?
Answer: An underpowered round where the bullet lodges in the barrel, risking a barrel obstruction
A squib load produces insufficient pressure to fully propel the bullet out of the barrel; if another round is fired with the obstruction present, it can cause catastrophic barrel failure.