U.S. patent application number 14/016932 was filed with the patent office on 2015-08-27 for special purpose slugs for use in ammunition.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ward Kraft, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Ward Kraft, Inc.. Invention is credited to Gary Buntain, Jesse D. Crum, Ryan Kraft.
Application Number | 20150241182 14/016932 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53881888 |
Filed Date | 2015-08-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150241182 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Crum; Jesse D. ; et
al. |
August 27, 2015 |
Special Purpose Slugs For Use In Ammunition
Abstract
A slug for a firearm cartridge made of plastic. Alternative
embodiments have a flat leading end or a stair-stepped leading end.
Additional embodiments have a metal insert or a combination of
metal and plastic portions. The length and diameter of the slugs
vary depending on the caliber of the firearm. A preferred
embodiment is made from acetal resin (polyoxymethylene).
Inventors: |
Crum; Jesse D.; (Fort Scott,
KS) ; Kraft; Ryan; (Fort Scott, KS) ; Buntain;
Gary; (Fort Scott, KS) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Ward Kraft, Inc. |
Fort Scott |
KS |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Ward Kraft, Inc.
Fort Scott
KS
|
Family ID: |
53881888 |
Appl. No.: |
14/016932 |
Filed: |
September 3, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13791166 |
Mar 8, 2013 |
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14016932 |
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61675607 |
Jul 25, 2012 |
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61700688 |
Sep 13, 2012 |
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61755774 |
Jan 23, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
102/439 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F42B 5/025 20130101;
F42B 10/46 20130101; F42B 12/745 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F42B 5/02 20060101
F42B005/02; F42B 5/30 20060101 F42B005/30 |
Claims
1. A firearm cartridge having an acetal resin (polyoxymethylene)
slug.
2. The firearm cartridge of claim 1 wherein the material used for
the slug is Dekin.RTM. 150E BK 602.
3. The firearm cartridge of claim 1 wherein the slug is 0.452
inches in diameter.
4. The firearm cartridge of claim 1 wherein the slug is 1.2 inches
in length.
5. The firearm cartridge of claim 1 wherein the slug has a flat
leading edge.
6. The firearm cartridge of claim 1 wherein the slug has a flat
trailing edge.
7. The firearm cartridge of claim 1 wherein the slug is 0.8 inches
in length.
8. The firearm cartridge of claim 1 wherein the slug has a diameter
sufficient for at least one of a 0.44 magnum firearm, 45 caliber
firearm, a 500 magnum firearm, and a .357 firearm.
9. A slug for use with a firearm comprising: (a) a slug made of
acetal resin (polyoxymethylene); (b) the slug having a length of
about 1.2 inches; and (c) the slug having a diameter of about 0.452
inches.
10. The slug of claim 9 wherein the material used for the slug is
Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602.
11. The slug of claim 9 wherein the slug has a flat leading
edge.
12. The slug of claim 9 wherein the slug has a flat trailing
edge.
13. The firearm cartridge of claim 9 wherein the slug has a
diameter sufficient for at least one of a 0.44 magnum firearm, a 45
caliber firearm, a 500 magnum firearm, and a .357 firearm.
14. A slug for use with a firearm comprising: (a) a slug made of
plastic material; (b) the slug having a length suitable for a
cartridge fitting in a firearm; (c) the slug having a diameter
suitable for a cartridge fitting in a firearm;
15. The slug of claim 14 wherein the slug is made from Delrin.RTM.
150E BK 602.
16. The slug of claim 14 wherein the slug has a length of 1.2
inches.
17. The slug of claim 14 wherein has a diameter of 0.452
inches.
18. The slug of claim 14 wherein the slug has a flat leading edge
and a flat trailing edge.
19. The slug of claim 14 wherein the slug has a length of 0.80
inches.
20. The firearm cartridge of claim 14 wherein the slug has a
diameter sufficient for at least one of a 0.44 magnum firearm, 45
caliber firearm, a 500 magnum firearm, and a .357 firearm.
21. A slug for use with a firearm comprising: (a) a plastic slug,
the slug having a central longitudinal hole and a length and
diameter suitable for fitting in a firearm; (b) an insert slug made
of metal, the insert slug placed in the hole in the plastic
slug;
22. The slug of claim 21 wherein a leading end of the insert slug
is flush with a leading end of the plastic slug.
23. The slug of claim 21 wherein the plastic slug is made of
Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602.
24. The slug of claim 21 wherein the insert slug is made of
copper.
25. The slug of claim 21 wherein a leading end of the insert slug
extends forward from the slug.
26. The slug of claim 25 wherein the plastic slug is dislodged from
the insert slug when the plastic slug exits a barrel of the
firearm.
27. The slug of claim 21 wherein the plastic slug has a flat
leading end.
28. The slug of claim 21 wherein the insert slug has a flat leading
end.
29. The slug of claim 21 wherein the plastic slug is 1 inch in
length and the insert slug is 1/2 inch in length.
30. The slug of claim 21 wherein the insert slug has a 0.25 inch
diameter.
31. A slug for use with a firearm comprising: a slug made of
plastic, the slug having a base and a leading end opposite the
base, the leading end having a first step and a second step.
32. The slug of claim 31 wherein the slug is made of acetal resin
(polyoxymethylene).
33. The slug of claim 31 wherein the slug is made of Delrin.RTM.
acetal resin(polyoxymethylene).
34. The slug of claim 31 wherein the base of the slug is 0.5 inches
in diameter.
35. The slug of claim 31 wherein the first and second steps are
formed by a lathe.
36. The slug of claim 31 wherein the slug is formed by injection
molding.
37. The slug of claim 31 wherein the first step is 0.1 inches high
and 0.4 inches in diameter, the second step is 0.3 inches in
diameter and 0.1 inches high, and the overall length of the slug is
1.2 inches.
38. The slug of claim 31 wherein first step is 0.2 inches high and
0.4 inches in diameter, the second step is 0.2 inches high and 0.3
inches in diameter, and the overall length of the slug is 1.4
inches.
39. The slug of claim 31 wherein the slug forms a central
longitudinal hole.
40. The slug of claim 39 wherein an insert slug is placed in the
central longitudinal hole.
41. The slug of claim 31 wherein the slug is encased in a
cartridge.
42. A slug for use with a firearm comprising: (a) a plastic
portion, (b) a metal portion made of at least one of steel, copper,
lead, or brass, and wherein the plastic portion and the metal
portion of the slug are adhered to one another by at least one of
(i) temporarily applying pressure to the combined materials, (ii)
holding devices formed in the plastic and metal portions of the
slug, and (iii) enlarging or angling portions of the interface
between the metal and the plastic to assist in adhering one to the
other.
43. The slug of claim 42 wherein the plastic portion is made of
Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602 or some other suitable plastic
material.
44. The slug of claim 42 wherein the metal portion of the slug has
a "T" shape, the "T" shaped slug having a longitudinal portion
having a longitudinal axis extending from a leading end of the slug
to a trailing end of the slug and portion perpendicular to the
longitudinal portion of the "T" at the trailing end of the slug,
and the plastic surrounds the longitudinal portion of the "T"
shaped metal portion of the slug.
45. The slug of claim 44 wherein the perpendicular portion of the
"T" varies in thickness in the longitudinal direction.
46. The slug of claim 44 wherein a leading end of the longitudinal
end of the "T" is notched.
47. The slug of claim 44 wherein the plastic portion has a
spring-like configuration.
48. The slug of claim 42 wherein the plastic portion of the slug
contains pointed or weak connection between the metal and plastic
portions of the slug.
49. The slug of claim 42 wherein the plastic portion and the metal
portion of the slug are retained together by holding devices.
50. The slug of claim 42 wherein a part of at least one of the
plastic portion and the metal portion and in the shape of a
ball.
51. The slug of claim 42 wherein the plastic portion is generally
"C" shaped.
52. The slug of claim 42 wherein the metal portion of the slug is
partially contained in a cartridge and a plastic sheath surrounds
the slug and a portion of the cartridge.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/791,166 filed Mar. 8, 2013, which claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Application 61/675,607, filed Jul. 25,
2012; U.S. Provisional Application 61/700,688 filed Sep. 13, 2012,
and U.S. Provisional Application 61/755,774 filed Jan. 23, 2013,
the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The field of the invention is slugs for use in cartridges
fired from handguns and other firearms.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Various types of slugs are used in ammunition. Slugs are
made in a variety of shapes and sizes depending upon their intended
use. Common types of slugs may be made from lead, jacketed lead,
steel (for armor piercing bullets), paper and wax (blanks), rubber
(less lethal), and a variety of other materials. The most commonly
used slug is made from lead, which can be toxic if it is left in
the environment after being discharged from a firearm. In addition,
lead is relatively expensive and, thus, costly to use as slug
material in firearms.
[0004] A lead slug has a certain amount of kinetic energy when it
is propelled from the barrel of firearm. The kinetic energy of a
discharged slug will be a function of its mass and it velocity via
the well-known formula Kinetic Energy
(KE)=1/2(mass)(velocity)(velocity). EKE=mV2] Assuming the
propellant in a firearm cartridge imparts a certain amount force to
a slug, a lead slug, due its weight, will be propelled from a
firearm with less velocity than a slug with a smaller mass;
however, a smaller mass tends to lessen the kinetic energy in
accordance with the formula stated above.
[0005] Certain kinds of plastic slugs have been made for training
purposes; however, they are not in common use for firearms. Lighter
plastic slugs have a tendency to arc when expelled from firearms.
The arcing affects the accuracy of the shot. For this reason, users
have been hesitant to use plastic slugs for personal protection,
hunting, or competition shooting.
[0006] Delrin.RTM. acetal resin (polyoxymethylene), which may be
secured from Dupont, is a material that has characteristics that
make it possible to use as a slug in firearm cartridges. It is sold
in the form of rods (among other forms) of various diameters. It is
represented to have the beneficial advantages of creep resistance,
strength, stiffness, hardness, dimensional stability, toughness,
fatigue resistance, solvent and fuel resistance, abrasion
resistance, low wear, and low friction. See the following web site
information:
http://www2.clupont.com/Plasticsien_US/Products/Delrin/Delrin.html.
Delrin.RTM. is much less expensive than lead. At the present time,
Delrin.RTM. is about 5% of the cost of an equal weight of lead.
[0007] It would be desirable to make a slug from a non-toxic,
smaller mass material that would provide characteristics and
qualities equal to or better than lead or other metals. The use of
a lighter weight slug would also lessen the "kick" or jump of the
firearm and, thus, render shots more accurate. It would also be
beneficial to use a less expensive, lighter weight slug, because
the velocity of the slug, at shorter ranges, would be higher than
the velocity of a lead slug, provided the slug could be made in a
configuration and size that would eliminate arcing at common target
distances. It would also be beneficial to use a slug that spreads
at its leading edge upon impact with the target so that it is more
effective in stopping a moving target and less effective in
piercing targets at longer ranges so as to prevent damage to
targets at longer ranges. It is further desirable to use a slug
that is less expensive than lead and more environmentally friendly
than lead.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0008] Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602 slugs are used in firearm cartridges
instead of lead or other metallic slugs. The Delrin.RTM. slugs are
cut from cylindrical 0.452 inch diameter Delrin.RTM. rods to a
length of about 0.8 inches or 1.2 inches. The leading end of the
Delrin.RTM. slugs is not altered once cut; both the front and tail
ends of the Delrin.RTM. slugs are flat. At short ranges, the
Delrin.RTM. slugs are propelled at higher velocities than lead
slugs and have greater kinetic energy. The leading edge of
Delrin.RTM. slugs flattens upon impact with the target, is more
effective in stopping a moving target, and does not significantly
arc at 15, 25, 50, and 75 yards. Muzzle jump ("lick") affecting
accuracy was significantly reduced. The cost of the Delrin.RTM.
slugs described about is about 5% of the cost of lead slugs. Other
types and sizes of Delrin.RTM. slugs may be used in different
caliber firearms. In addition, other types of plastic material may
also be used instead of Delrin.RTM. brand products. In alternative
embodiments, the slugs may be made with metal inserts or in stepped
or telescoping-like shapes to change, alter or customize the
performance of the slugs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge
used in a firearm.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge
with a Delrin.RTM. slug.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a schematic showing the motion of the firearm and
lead and Delrin slugs at 25, 50 and 75 yards.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a slug showing
an alternative embodiment of the slug containing a metal
center.
[0013] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of the slug with a stepped shape at an upper end
thereof.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another
alternative embodiment of the slug with a modified stepped shape at
an upper end thereof.
[0015] FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0018] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a third
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0019] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fourth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0020] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fifth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sixth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0022] FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a seventh
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0023] FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a eighth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0024] FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a ninth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0025] FIG. 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a tenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0026] FIG. 18 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a eleventh
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0027] FIG. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a twelfth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0028] FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a thirteenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0029] FIG. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fourteenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0030] FIG. 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fifteenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0031] FIG. 23 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sixteenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0032] FIG. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a seventeenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0033] FIG. 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a eighteenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0034] FIG. 26 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a nineteenth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0035] FIG. 27 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a twentieth
alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal and Delrin.RTM.
portions.
[0036] FIG. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a
twenty-first alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal
and Delrin.RTM. portions.
[0037] FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a
twenty-second alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal
and Delrin.RTM. portions.
[0038] FIG. 30 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a
twenty-third alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal
and Delrin.RTM. portions.
[0039] FIG. 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a
twenty-fourth alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal
and Delrin.RTM. portions.
[0040] FIG. 32 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a
twenty-fifth alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal
and Delrin.RTM. portions.
[0041] FIG. 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a
twenty-sixth alternative embodiment of a slug made of both metal
and Delrin.RTM. portions.
[0042] FIG. 34 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a bullet made
of both metal and Delrin.RTM. portions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0043] FIG. 1 shows a cartridge 1 used in a firearm. The cartridge
1 has a casing 3 that encloses or contains the propellant 5 and a
primer 4 that ignites the propellant 5. When the propellant 5 is
ignited, the slug 7 is discharged from the casing 1 and propelled
to a target.
[0044] Various types of plastic and other light weight material
were tested and used as slugs 7 in 45 long Colt cartridges 1 fired
from a revolver. The tests were made at various target distances. A
chronograph was used to determine the speed of the slug 7 at the
exit from the firearm and at the target. Standard casings 3,
propellants 5, and primers 4 were used in the cartridges 1.
[0045] All tests were conducted with one of the following firearms:
Ruger.RTM. Blackhawk, Ruger.RTM. Vaquero, Taurus.RTM. Judge, and
Taurus.RTM. Raging Judge magnum using cartridges having overall
lengths of 1.4 inches and 1.76 inches. Other types of firearms and
different cartridge lengths may also be used.
[0046] The casings 3, propellants 5, and primers 4 were the same
for each cartridge shot, namely, a .45 casing, Alliant.RTM.
Bullseye Smokelesss Powder propellant, and large pistol and large
rifle magnum primers. Other types of casings 3, propellants 5, and
primers 4 may also be used.
[0047] Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602 material was purchased in the form
of a 1/2 inch diameter rod. The Delrin.RTM. rod was milled to a
diameter of 0.452 inches to fit in the casing 3 of the .45 revolver
cartridge 1. Delrin.RTM. rods may be purchased in specific
diameters, so in larger scale uses the Delrin.RTM. rods may be
purchased with a diameter of 0.452 inches. Other types, styles, and
sizes of the Delrin.RTM. may also be used, and plastics other than
Delrin.RTM. brand plastic may also be used. The Delrin.RTM. slugs
tested were varied at 1 inch, 0.8 inch, and 1.2 inches long. The
leading end of the Delrin.RTM. slugs was not altered; both the
front and tail ends of the Delrin.RTM. slugs were flat--i.e., as
cut. The preferred length of the Delrin.RTM. slugs was 1.2 inches.
In addition, other diameter of Delrin may be used for slugs in .44
magnum firearms, 45 caliber firearms, .357 firearms, or other
firearms.
[0048] The slugs 7 were weighed prior to use by a digital scale;
most weight measurements were made on the 0.8 inch length Delrin
slugs. The weight of the Delrin slugs was 46 grains and the powder
weight averaged approximately 15.6 grains as shown below.
[0049] The firearm was held in a Ransom rest and fired by a person.
Muzzle displacement ("kick") was noted on all shots. Chronographs
we set at the end of the muzzle and 5, 25, 30, 50 and 75 yards from
the muzzle. The distances of the targets from the muzzle of the
firearm were varied at 5, 15, 25, 30, 50, and 75 yards. The
majority of the bullet speeds were measured at 25 yards from the
muzzle.
[0050] Comparison shots we made with lead slugs 7 and Delrin.RTM.
150E BK 602 slugs 7. The comparison lead slugs 7 were standard
cowboy loads.
[0051] The following speeds were recorded for the 0.8 inch Delrin
slug at the following distances from the muzzle, yielding the
following Kinetic Energy (KE) calculations:
TABLE-US-00001 Distance from Speed in feet Kinetic Slug Length
Muzzle per second Energy (KE) 0.8 inches 5 yards 2311 545 0.8
inches 25 yards 1424 207 0.8 inches 30 yards 1224 153 0.8 inches 50
yards 746 56 0.8 inches 75 yards 478 23
[0052] The 0.8 inch Delrin slug was x-rayed in tissue and the slug
can be seen on an X-ray.
[0053] The target materials used were paper, 2.times.6 inch plywood
sheets (white pine and yellow pine), adhesive gel, sheetrock, wood
(2.times.4), and a bullet proof vest (level IIIA). All discharged
slugs hit the target within 2 inches of the point of aim. The
target impact areas and the slugs were observed, including the
depth of penetration of the slugs. Other visible effects on slugs
were also noted. The slug penetrations described below were
noted:
[0054] The 0.8 inch Delrin slug did not penetrate the front of the
bullet proof vest when shot at 12 paces from the vest; when a 0.8
inch slug was shot at the rear of vest from the same distance, the
slug did penetrate the vest somewhat, but the slug did not go
through the vest. When a 21/2 inch sheetrock sheet was placed
inside the vest, the sheetrock received about 0.3 inches of
compaction from the slug pressure. The 0.8 inch Delrin slug
penetrated two (2) one-half (1/2) inch plywood sheets and,
thereafter, two (2) one half (1/2) inch sheets of sheetrock sheets
at 25 yards. The 0.8 inch Delrin slug penetrated two (2) one-half
(1/2) inch sheets of sheetrock and then one (1) one-half (1/2) inch
sheets of plywood sheet at 25 yards. The 0.8 inch Delrin slug also
penetrated six (60 one-half (1/2) inch of sheetrock at 25 yards,
one (1) one-half (1/2) inch sheets of plywood at 50 yards, and 1/8
inch of plywood at 75 yards.
[0055] A chart of some of the pertinent test results is shown
below. In each case, the slug weight was 46 grains.
TABLE-US-00002 Bullet Powder Cartridge Ave. Pattern Date Dia.
Length Powder Weight Length FPS Dia. Yds KE Aug. 14, 2012 .452''
.8'' Bullseye 15.5 gr 1.4'' 2165 2'' 25 478 Jul. 3, 2012 .452''
.8'' Bullseye 15.7 gr 1.4'' 2248 1.25'' 25 516 Jun. 29, 2012 .452''
.8'' Bullseye 15.2 gr 1.4'' 2113 2'' 25 456 Jun. 26, 2012 .452''
1.2'' Bullseye 15.7 gr 1.76'' 2265 1.125'' 25 717 Jun. 26, 2012
.452'' 1.2'' Bullseye 15.7 gr 1.76'' 2214 1'' 25 685 Jun. 26, 2012
.452'' 1.2'' Bullseye 15.7 gr 1.76'' 2267 .75'' 25 719
[0056] In other tests, a wood (2.times.4) target was used with a
paper target immediately behind the wood target. The 1.2 inch
Delrin 150E BK 602 slugs 7 with diameters of 0.452 inches were
discharged toward the targets with a .45 long Colt revolver, at 15,
25, and 50 yards. The results of the tests were as follows:
[0057] At 15 yards the front side of a wooden target (2.times.4)
had a clean penetration, but widened to approximately 1.5 inches on
backside. A paper bulls eye target behind the wooden target had a
clean shape/size penetration somewhat resembling the shape of the
Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602 slug 7.
[0058] At 25 yards the front side of a wooden target (2.times.4)
had a clean penetration, but widened to approximately 3 inches on
backside. A paper bulls eye target behind the wooden target had a
clean shape/size penetration somewhat resembling the shape/size of
the Delrin.RTM. slug 7.
[0059] At 50 yards the front side of a wooden target (2.times.4)
had a clean penetration, but widened to approximately 5 inches on
backside. The paper target behind the wooden target had a clean
shape/size penetration, again somewhat resembling the shape/size of
the Delrin.RTM. slug 7, but producing a hole somewhat larger than
the shots at 15 and 25 yards.
[0060] The Delrin.RTM. slugs did not exhibit any significant arcing
or inaccuracy compared to the lead slugs. The depth of penetration
of the Delrin.RTM. slugs was significantly less than the depth of
penetration of the lead slugs. The velocity of the Delrin.RTM.
slugs was significantly higher than the velocity of the lead slugs.
No significant differences in accuracy were noted between the lead
and Delrin.RTM. slugs 7. The kinetic energy of the Delrin.RTM.
slugs was significantly higher than that of the lead slugs at the
shorter distances.
[0061] The Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 were deformed on their leading edges
after hitting the target, apparently accounting for the shorter
penetration distances of the Delrin.RTM. slugs. The deformation was
"mushroom" shaped. The Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 were, otherwise
essentially whole after penetration and only slight deformation of
the following edge of the Delrin.RTM. slugs was noted. No
significant fragmentation of the Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 was
observed.
[0062] FIG. 3 is a schematic describing the muzzle jump or kick of
the firearm and the path of the Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 and the lead
slugs. As shown in FIG. 3, the heavier lead slug exited the firearm
more slowly than the Delrin.RTM. slug 7, causing a muzzle jump that
affects the path of the lead slug--i.e., causing the slug to leave
the barrel when the barrel was at an elevation slightly higher than
its position at the time of firing.
[0063] Due to the lighter weight and higher speed of the
Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602 slug, the Delrin.RTM. slug 7 exited the gun
barrel before there was any significant muzzle jump, as shown in
FIG. 3. It will be noted that, at the distances tested, the
Delrin.RTM. slug has a less-arced path than the lead slug.
[0064] Several advantages were found to be gained from the use of
the Delrin.RTM. Slugs 7: [0065] a) The cost of the Delrin.RTM.
slugs 7 used in the tests was about 5% of the cost of lead slugs,
based on weight and then prices current at the time of the tests.
[0066] b) The Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 did not require any modifications
to the leading or trailing edge of the slug once cut. [0067] c)
Although the Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 used in the tests were milled to
0.452 inches in diameter, Delrin.RTM. rods may be ordered in
specific diameters, including a 0.452 inch diameter. [0068] d)
Muzzle jump (`kick") using Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 was significantly
less than the muzzle jump accompanying the use of lead slugs,
increasing the accuracy of the shot. [0069] e) No increased arcing
of the Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 (as compared to lead slugs) was noted at
the distances tested. [0070] f) The "mushroom" shaped deformation
of the leading end of the Delrin.RTM. slug 7 caused the slug to be
stopped more quickly by the target upon impact, making the
Delrin.RTM. slug 7 safer for enclosed spaces (aircraft and homes,
for example) and safer for outdoor spaces where a slug passing
through the target could impinge upon unintended objects or people
after passing through the target. [0071] g) The Delrin.RTM. slugs 7
did not significantly disintegrate or fragment upon impact, making
them easier to retrieve from the target and less like to
contaminate game when used for hunting. [0072] h) In human
combat/protection applications, the Delrin.RTM. slug 7, due to its
deformation upon impact, appeared more likely to stop an
intruder/opponent and less likely to travel through the intruder
and endanger other persons or property. [0073] i) The lighter
weight of the Delrin.RTM. slug 7 allowed it to travel significantly
faster to the target; in the tests conducted, the speeds of all of
the Delrin.RTM. slugs greatly exceeded that of the lead slugs.
[0074] j) Due to the increase speeds of the Delrin.RTM. slugs 7,
and despite the significantly decreased weight of the Delrin.RTM.
slugs 7, the kinetic energy of the Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 was
significantly higher than that of the lead slugs at the distances
tested. [0075] k) The use of Delrin.RTM. slugs 7 would not pollute
the environment with lead, as would be the case with lead slugs.
[0076] l) Damage to the target was greater when impacted by the
Delrin.RTM. slug 7 than when impacted by the lead slug; thus, the
Derin.RTM. slug 7 would appear to be more effective in stopping a
moving target than lead at the distances tested.
[0077] It is understood that the same or other types of plastics
may be used for slugs in different caliber fire arms, and that the
length, diameter, and shape of the slug may vary depending on the
type of firearm and cartridge used.
[0078] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 4, copper or
other metal may be inserted in a Delrin.RTM. slug 8. In this
embodiment, the Delrin.RTM. slug 8 is made as described above. A
central longitudinal hole 9 is then made in the Delrin.RTM. slug 8.
In the slug 8 that was made and tested, the Delrin slug was 1 inch
long. A 0.5 inch long, 0.25 inch diameter, hole 9 was drilled in
the leading end of the slug 8. A copper insert 11 was placed in the
hole until it was flush with the leading end of the Delrin.RTM.
slug 8. As above, other plastic materials may be used instead of
Delrin.RTM.. The slug 8 may be encased in a cartridge (not
shown).
[0079] Although copper was used in the test referenced above, other
metals, such as steel or lead, could be used as the insert instead
of copper. There are also various ways the metal can be inserted
into the Delrin.RTM. slug. For example, the metal may be heat
softened and placed in the Delrin.RTM. slug, extruded into the slug
8, screwed into the slug, inserted with pressure of force, or
placed in the slug 8 by other means known in the art.
[0080] The depth and diameter of the hole depends on the length and
diameter of the Delrin.RTM. slug 8, which, in turn depends on the
size of the cartridge 1 needed for the firearm from which the slug
8 with the metal insert 11 is to be propelled.
[0081] When fired from a firearm, the Delrin.RTM. slug 8 with the
copper insert 11 carried downrange about 200 yards--farther than
the Delrin.RTM. slug 7 without the copper insert.
[0082] Further in the alternative, the metal insert 11 may extend
beyond the leading end of the Delrin slug 8. In such applications
the Delrin.RTM. slug 8 may be made so that it is dislodged from the
metal 11 at the time it exits the barrel of the firearm and, thus,
perform in the nature of a Sabot bullet. Such Sabot-like small
caliber bullets may then be used in firearms with larger bores.
[0083] Further, in applications using a metal insert 11, the extra
weight of the bullet due to the metal is believed to render the
bullet as "non-armor piercing."
[0084] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 5, a Delrin.RTM. slug 12
has a leading end 13 that is stair-stepped or telescoping shape 14.
A base end 15 is 0.5 inches in diameter and 1 inch high. The
overall length of the Delrin.RTM. slug 12 is 1.2 inches. A first
step 16 from the base is 0.4 inch in diameter and 0.1 inches high.
A second step 17 is 0.3 inches in diameter and 0.1 inches high. The
first and second steps 16 and 17 are formed from an initial slug
that is 1.2 inches high and 0.5 inches in diameter. The steps 16
and 17 are formed from the initial slug 12 by turning the slug 12
on a lathe and cutting the steps 16 and 17 in to the initial slug
12; however, the entire slug 12 could be injection molded if
desired. The slug 12 used in tests described below weighed 76
grains. The slug 12 could also be made with a central longitudinal
hole into which a copper or other metal insert may be placed, if
desired. (not shown) The slug 12 may be encased in a cartridge (not
shown).
[0085] In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 6, a Delrin.RTM. slug
18 has a leading end 19 that is stair-stepped or telescoping shape
20. A base end 21 is 0.5 inches in diameter and 1 inch high. The
overall length of the Delrin.RTM. slug 18 is 1.4 inches. A first
step 22 from the base is 0.4 inches in diameter and 0.2 inches
high. A second step 23 is 0.3 inches in diameter and 0.2 inches
high. The first and second steps 22 and 23 are formed from an
initial slug 18 that is 1.4 inches high and 0.5 inches in diameter.
The steps 22 and 23 are formed from the initial slug 12 by turning
the slug 18 on a lathe and cutting the steps 22 and 23 in to the
initial slug 12; however, the entire slug 18 could be injection
molded if desired. The slug 18 used in tests describe below weighed
83 grains. The slug 18 could also be made with a central
longitudinal hole into which a copper or other metal insert may be
placed, if desired. (not shown) The slug 18 may be encased in a
cartridge (not shown).
[0086] The slugs 7 (flat end), 12 (each step 0.1 inch high), and 18
(each step 0.2 inches high) were tested by firing from a 500 magnum
firearm. The target consisted of 6 inches of cardboard in front of
a 3/4'' inch piece of plywood, which, in turn was in front of
target rubber. The target was 25 yards from the firearm. Speed was
measured at 5 yards from the firearm, and kinetic energy was
calculated using the speed so determined.
[0087] The test results are summarized below:
TABLE-US-00003 Weight Speed Kinetic Slug (grains) (ft/sec) Energy
Target Penetration 7 70 2443 927 Fully penetrated cardboard; dented
plywood 12 76 2588 1130 Fully penetrated cardboard and plywood;
bounced off rubber 18 83 2592 1240 Fully penetrated cardboard and
plywood; sunk into rubber
[0088] Upon impact with the target slugs 12 and 18 spread out later
than slug 7. In general terms, it appeared that the flatter the
forward end of the slug, the less penetration, and the greater the
speed, the greater the kinetic energy.
[0089] It is understood that, although this application references
handguns, the special purpose slugs described could also be made to
fit and be used in rifles, as well. In addition, although reference
is frequently made to the Delrin.RTM. slugs, other type of plastics
could also be used.
[0090] Sometimes it is desirable to use features of slugs made of
Delrin.RTM. or some other plastic and slugs made of metal to impart
some additional weight to the Delrin.RTM. slug or to create effects
in the path and behavior of the slug and bullet once they have been
fired and discharged from a fire arm. The use of Delrin.RTM. or
other plastic as well as metal may, thus, allow slugs to be made to
serve a variety of special purposes. A variety of alternative
embodiments of slugs made from a combination of Delrin.RTM. and
metal are described below, and the principles disclosed in these
combinations may be used in still other embodiments.
[0091] FIGS. 7 through 33 are schematic cross-sectional views of
alternative embodiments of slugs comprising Delrin.RTM. portions 30
and metal portions 40. In FIGS. 7-33 the leading end of the slug is
on the left side of the drawing and the trailing end of the slug is
on the right side of the drawing. FIG. 34 is a schematic
cross-sectional view of a bullet made of both Delrin.RTM. 30 and
metal 40. In FIG. 34, the leading end of the bullet is on the right
side of the drawing and the tailing end of the bullet is on the
left side of the drawing.
[0092] Any suitable metal may be used for the metal portion 40 of
the slugs described herein; examples include, but are not limited
to, steel, copper, lead, and brass.
[0093] The Delrin.RTM. used in the slugs or bullet may be
Delrin.RTM. 150E BK 602 or some other suitable plastic
material.
[0094] In most cases the Delrin.RTM. portion and the metal portion
40 of the slugs may be adhered to one another by applying pressure
to the combined materials once they are in the desired positions in
the slug. After applying pressure to the combined materials in the
slug, the assembled slug may be encased a cartridge. When
discharged from a firearm, the Delrin.RTM. and metal portions of
the slugs generally, but not always, remain adhered to one another
until the slug hits a target.
[0095] In FIG. 7, the metal 40 portion of the slug is generally "I"
shaped, with threading 41 in the longitudinal portion of the "I".
The Delrin.RTM. portion 30 of the slug is pressed against the
longitudinal threaded portion of the "I" shaped metal portion and
pressure is applied to the Delrin.RTM. 30 so that it will adhere to
the metal 40. Jogs 42 may be placed in the longitudinal portion of
the "I" to assist in keeping the Delrin.RTM. 30 and the metal 40 in
contact with one another after the slug is discharged from the
firearm. The slug of FIG. 7 will remain intact until it hits a
target and will perform in a manner similar to the cylindrical
Delrin.RTM. slug 7 upon impact with the target; however, the slug
of FIG. 7 will be heavier.
[0096] FIGS. 11 and 13 shows a slug constructed in a way very
similar to that of the FIG. 7, except the leading edge of the metal
is extended forward to form a partial dome 43 with a flattened
top.
[0097] FIG. 12 shows a slug constructed the same as the slug in
FIG. 7; however there is no threading in the slug of FIG. 12.
[0098] FIGS. 8, 9, 10, and 15 show slugs with "T" shaped metal
portions 40 with the Delrin.RTM. portions 30 adhered to the
longitudinal portion of the "T". In FIGS. 9 and 10, the Delrin.RTM.
portion is extended forward and beyond the leading end of the
longitudinal portion of the "T" to form a point 44. As show in FIG.
15, the leading end 45 of the longitudinal portion of the "T" may
be enlarged or angled at its interface with the Delrin.RTM. portion
30 (and the Delrin.RTM. 30 angled in a complimentary way) to assist
in keeping the Delrin.RTM. portion 30 adhered to the metal portion
40 after the slug is discharged from the firearm.
[0099] In the slugs shown in FIGS. 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 19, 22, 24,
26, and 27, the "T" shaped metal portions 40 have longitudinal
portions that vary in length and are oriented from the leading end
to trailing end of the slug. The trailing end of the "T" is
perpendicular to the longitudinal portion of the "T" and may vary
in thickness in the longitudinal direction.
[0100] The slugs shown in FIGS. 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13 will
remain intact until they hit a target and will perform in a manner
similar to the cylindrical Delrin.RTM. slug 7 upon impact with the
target; however, the slug of FIG. 7 will be heavier and will have
characteristics more similar to those of metal slugs.
[0101] The Delrin.RTM. portions 30 of the slugs shown in FIGS. 8
and 15 will likely separate from the metal portions 40 the slugs
after the slug leaves the end of the barrel of the firearm and the
remaining metal portion 40 will have greater piercing potential
when it hits a target. The flattened leading portion 45 (see FIG.
15) will allow a larger portion of the leading end of the metal
portion 40 of the slug to penetrate the target.
[0102] As shown in FIGS. 16, 19, 22, 24, 26, and 27, a Delrin.RTM.
portion 30 surrounds the longitudinal portion of the "T" shaped
metal portion 40. The "T" shaped metal portion 40, however, has a
notch 46 at its leading end. In each of these embodiments, the
Delrin.RTM. portion 30 of the slug may stay with the slug until it
strikes a target. When then slug strikes the target the Delrin.RTM.
portion 30 will usually disintegrate and the metal portion 40 of
the slug with the notch 46 will perform in a manner similar to a
hollow point lead slug.
[0103] FIGS. 14, 17, 18, and 21 show slugs that have pointed or
weak connections 50 between the Delrin.RTM. portions 30 and metal
portions 40 of the slug. When these slugs hit a target, they will
tilt or tumble as the slug collapses from the impact and will
penetrate the target less than other slugs that remain intact upon
impact.
[0104] FIG. 25 shows a slug with a spring-like Delrin.RTM. portion
30. The spring-like Delrin.RTM. portion 30 will keep the slug true
in the barrel of a firearm upon firing and stay with the metal "T"
shaped portion 40 until the slug hits the target, where it will
have greater ability to pierce the target. The spring-like
Delrin.RTM. portion 30 will typically disintegrate when it hits the
target.
[0105] FIGS. 23, 28, 29, and 30 show slugs with relatively large
Delrin.RTM. portions 30 surrounded by comparatively thinner,
smaller portions of metal 40. In FIGS. 29, 30, and 31, the
Delrin.RTM. 30 and metal 40 portions may be retained together by
holding devices or snaps and detents 55 to keep the metal 40 and
the Delrin.RTM. portion 30 together as long as possible after
discharge from the fire arm. While the holding devices 55 will keep
the Delrin.RTM. 30 and metal 40 portions together for some time,
the slug will disintegrate or explode upon hitting the target.
[0106] FIGS. 20 and 31 show slug structures that contain balls 60.
In the case of the slug shown in FIG. 20, the balls 60 are made of
metal 40, and in the case of the slug shown in FIG. 31, the ball 60
is made of Delrin.RTM. 30. The slugs shown in FIGS. 20 and 31 will
disintegrate upon impact with a target and may well disintegrate
prior to impact on the target.
[0107] FIGS. 32 and 33 show Delrin.RTM. portions 30 in generally
"C" shaped configurations 63 that are substantially surrounded by
metal 40. In FIG. 32 the convex portion of the "C" shaped
Delrin.RTM. portions 30 face in the direction of the target. In
FIG. 33 the convex portion of the "C" shaped Delrin.RTM. portions
30 face in the direction away from the target. The slugs shown in
FIGS. 32 and 33 will disintegrate upon impact with the target and
may well disintegrate prior to impact on the target.
[0108] FIG. 34 shows a bullet containing a metal jacket and metal
slug 40 with a Delrin.RTM. sheath 30 surrounding a slug or
projectile 65 and a portion of the leading end of a cartridge 70.
Upon firing, the cartridge and the sheath 30 will cause the bullet
to remain stable (not wobble) in the barrel of the firearm. When
the bullet is discharged from the barrel or the firearm, the
Delrin.RTM. sheath 30 will separate from the cartridge 70, but not
from the projectile 65. Instead, the Delrin.RTM. sheath will
continue to the target with the projectile 65.
* * * * *
References