Also known as: bourrelet.
| Definition | The raised, turned bearing surface on a projectile |
|---|---|
| Function | Centers the projectile in the bore |
| Relation | Works with the sabot or band to guide and seal the projectile |
The bearing surface
The bourrelet is the raised band of an elongated projectile, turned to a close fit with the bore, on which the projectile bears as it travels up the barrel. By centering the projectile, it keeps it running true and reduces the wobble that hurts accuracy.
Together with the sabot or driving band, which seals the bore and takes the rifling, the bourrelet is part of how a rifled projectile is guided and steadied in the gun.
On this site
Sources & further reading
- Benton, James G. A Course of Instruction in Ordnance and Gunnery. 2nd ed. New York: D. Van Nostrand, 1862.
- Hackley, Frank W. Civil War Explosive Ordnance. Revised November 10, 1960. U.S. Naval School, Explosive Ordnance Disposal.