Rifleman Q&A: Muzzle Velocity

posted on June 29, 2016
qa.jpg

Q: I am reading a book, The Rifle in America, by Philip B. Sharpe, first published in 1938. The first mention of muzzle velocity is on p. 22, referring to the Model 1842 Percussion Rifle. Muzzle velocity is mentioned many times concerning rifles made prior to the 1938 publication date, and I am wondering what methods were used to measure muzzle velocity back then?

A: It would probably surprise most people today, but by the late 19th century, there were available fairly sophisticated electro-mechanical chronographs, notably the Le Boulenge and the Benton Electro-Ballistic. Their use was pretty much limited to those with the funds to obtain them, in the case of the United States that would be the federal government, specifically the military.

Nonetheless, well into the 20th century, most published “measurements” were obtained with the use of carefully constructed pendulum devices. Principles of physics were applied by measuring the movement of a known-weight object when struck by a bullet fired into it. Because the weight of the bullet was also known, the energy delivered to the object could be calculated. From that figure the velocity of the bullet could be computed. I know it works; my high school physics teacher constructed a simple, yet effective, pendulum system in our classroom, and we spent several hours firing a variety of .22-cal. rimfire ammunition in order to determine its velocity (that was 50 years ago). The process is tedious and time-consuming, but can produce quite accurate results if carefully performed in a controlled environment.

Latest

New Guns Gear Nraam 2025 F (1)
New Guns Gear Nraam 2025 F (1)

New Guns & Gear At The 2025 NRA Show

The 154th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, held at the Georgia World Congress Center, April 24-27, was teeming with new guns and gear. Here's a taste of what you can see on the show floor.

Gun Of The Week: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter

Welcome to American Rifleman’s Gun Of The Week. For this episode, we have a version of Smith & Wesson’s Model 1854 lever-action that’s specifically made for field use. Meet the Model 1854 Stealth Hunter.

The Armed Citizen® April 25, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The Great FN Gun Giveaway At NRAAM 2025

Here’s a chance to win a custom, one-of-a-kind FN 545 Tactical pistol at the 154th NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits, April 24-27, in Atlanta, Ga. No purchase necessary.

Training With Moving Targets

Most target shooters understand static or bullseye-type stationary targets quite well, but did you know that adding motion into your training routine will improve practical marksmanship and the skills necessary to conquer defensive situations?

USA Shooting Celebrates 30th Anniversary

USA Shooting marks a historic milestone in April as it celebrates 30 years as the national governing body for international shooting sports within the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.