Thread: Bullets

'Bullet' is the correct terminology for the projectile from a small arms cartridge (ie: any calibre below 20mm). Larger calibre projectiles are called 'shells' because they frequently contain internal pyrotechnic charges and fuses. A 'cartridge' is the complete assembled round consisting of the 'case', 'primer', 'charge' and projectile (bullet or shell depending on calibre). Calling a cartridge a 'bullet' is just common ignorance as found among the non-shooting public. I have had a lot of fun creating confusion in court cases when dealing with legal eagles who ask questions about bullets when they mean cartridges or ammunition. Whilst the use of 'projectile' is strictly correct in meaning, 'bullet' is the proper term.

Originally Posted by gundoc

'Bullet' is the correct terminology for the projectile from a small arms cartridge (ie: any calibre below 20mm). Larger calibre projectiles are called 'shells' because they frequently contain internal pyrotechnic charges and fuses. A 'cartridge' is the complete assembled round consisting of the 'case', 'primer', 'charge' and projectile (bullet or shell depending on calibre). Calling a cartridge a 'bullet' is just common ignorance as found among the non-shooting public. I have had a lot of fun creating confusion in court cases when dealing with legal eagles who ask questions about bullets when they mean cartridges or ammunition. Whilst the use of 'projectile' is strictly correct in meaning, 'bullet' is the proper term.

Oh well, looks like I'm an ignorant non shooting public for calling 22 ammo "bullets" but unfortunately a habit of close to 70 years ain't going to change.