palla leggera o palla pesante ?">Dynamic pulling:
light ball or heavy ball?
October 21st, 2009 Posted in HAMMR, Balls, TDS, electronics, granular S, munitioning, reloading, tools
Numerical simulations of internal ballistics: Andrew Gatti
Text, images and experimental data: Fabio Occhipinti

Survey to the shot of one Para-uses LDA in cal. 45
Original photo of Joe Huffman: blog.joehuffman.org
Optimisation to care of: ArtMagicBox.com
Sections of the article (active index visualising the complete article)
- Theoretical presuppositions of the recoil
- The used measure system
- Organisation of the experiment
- Experimental results
- Conclusions
- Final considerations
Often, on the fields of dynamic pulling, it is discussed the suitability of reaching the desired Power Factor (in succession PF) using balls with the increased weight rather than standard. The tradition of this sport suggests in fact that the smallest recoil (and then the smallest survey of the weapon, being able to double more quickly the blows) is obtainable using ogives, anchors compatible with the calibre in use but, the weight as elevated as possible. As well as the subjective considerations and the sensitiveness of each shooter, few ones have been they who have tried to justify theoretically the presumed phenomenon and still less, those who have made proofs ripetibili and objective in a measurable comparison. Of against, really because based on subjective data, the question turns out to be rather controversial.
Decide to suppose that I remedy this experimentation gap, after different tens of hours passed in laboratory and on the pulling fields for the adjusted one of the system of measure, we are today able to propose to our readers the results of the tests on the supposed advantage offered by the use of the heavy ogives. To follow we will be able to give finally an idea at least qualitative, if not absolutely quantitative, of the diversity of reaction of the weapon. As well as the impennamento of the same one, we have also wanted to notice the rearmament times: measuring in fact the reaction of the trolley, we have verified also from this point of view, there were variations worthy of sign to the change of the weight ball.
In this article we will try to reply then to the next questions:
1) Does exist a theoretical presupposition that makes incline to the loading with heavy ball?
2) To factor equality, is suited to use heavy balls rather than to read to reduce the survey of the weapon?
3) Using heavy balls, is slowed down the cycle of rearmament of the pistol?
Theoretical presuppositions of the recoil (↑)
This section will deal with some theoretical presuppositions, sometimes a little abstract. For those who had not particularly interested to these mathematic passages, we suggest of proceeding to the reading of the following section.
A well-known beginning of the physics discovered by Newton (1643-1727), it declares that an equal and contrary reaction corresponds to each action. They all know this beginning well I colour to which it has never happened to fire a blow with fire-arms.
The theory that is to the base of the recoil is rather complex, but in extreme synthesis, we can declare that a weapon recoils because of the law of conservation of the quantity of motion. In systems isolated, or rather not subject to forces external for the system itself, for a law of the physics, the quantity of total motion of the system cannot change (the quantity of initial motion must equal that one final). There defines quantity of motion to itself centner of a body of mass metre, which moves with the speed V, really the product mass for speed: q=m•V (for simplicity, the vector indications will be omitted).
For example, we can consider like a system, a loaded rifle. The quantity of total motion of this system is null why, considering the system in quiet, each his part is firm, then the speeds are null. To the moment of the shot there is a variation of quantity of motion because inside the cane of the rifle there is speeded up the pellet that will assume to the flight the own one V0 and a quantity of equal motion to:
qpalla = mpalla • V0
Hypothesising the isolated system (he that is does not interact with the environment that surrounds it), we can apply the law of conservation of the quantity of motion: if initially, the quantity of motion of the system “rifle more pellet” was null, also after the shot it will have to remain null (the quantity of motion keeps). Then the rifle will have to assume his quantity of equal motion and contrary to that one assumed by the bullet: null "algebraic" sum (it would be more corrected to talk about vector sum). In definitive, the rifle will be "pushed" in the opposite sense (to back) compared to the expulsion of the bullet, before assuming a speed therefore:
marma • Varma = mpalla • V0
The quantity of motion of the rifle must equal that one of the bullet: qarma = qpalla., in definitive, there is owed to this the impulse of strength (Ir) that is informed to the shot of a weapon, well-known impulse how I "recoil".
Must go to the detail, to the moment of the shot, as well as impressing one certain speed to the bullet, they are speeding up, they undergo then also variation of quantity of motion, the gases of deflagration. Their total mass, in the hypothesis of null interaction with the air, it can be considered a draw to that one of the propellent dust contained in the cartridge (chemical law of Lavoisier about the conservation of the mass). The speed of such gases is null in correspondence of the bottom of the case (breech of the weapon) and it decorates with the speed of the bullet an instant before he leaves the flight living one. To simplify, we can consider then a middle speed of the gases inside the equal cane to V0/2. Returning to the equation and making the same considerations on the conservation of the quantity of motion, we will must to have then:
marma • Varma = mpalla • V0 mpolvere • V0/2
The rifle, therefore, will be pushed to back not only because of the acceleration of the bullet, but also because of the acceleration of the gases of deflagration. These first two components of the recoil constitute what is defined “primary recoil”.
There exists a third component to be considered, composing that is named of “secondary recoil”: she, in contrast to the first two, intervenes to the moment of the exit of the bullet with the cane (that is after the “time of cane”). As soon as the bullet leaves the flight in fact, the gases contained in the cane expand quickly before reaching the atmospheric pressure. This violent leak of the gases causes a kind of “propulsion“, a “effect rocket” o “Jet“, which determines a quantity of equal additional motion to
qgas = mpolvere • Vgas
The speed of efflux of the gases of deflagration with the flight is generally, above all in weapons to short cane, of superior much with the speed of the bullet (the gases exceed the bullet only gone beyond the flight). Then adding all the components of the recoil we will have at last:
marma•Varma = mpalla•V0 mpolvere•V0/2 mpolvere•Vgas
The speed of efflux of the gases, Vgas, is not easily rilevabile and often here it is entrusted to estimate of maxim, empiric relations (for example. Hatcher) or to experimental tables picked up by ballistic laboratories. Applying all that I dictate to our experimental case, which foresees the use of a pistol, really doing reference to such tables for the calibre and the length of esteemed cane (9×21, 113mm), we have brought near that the speed of efflux of the gases was almost double compared to the speed of the bullet.
More exactly, we will suppose:
Vgas = 1,9 • V0
Simplifying and substituting Vgas, we will have the equations:
marma • Varma = mpalla • V0 mpolvere • V0 • (0,5 1,9)
marma • Varma = mpalla • V0 mpolvere • V0 • 2,4
At this relation we understand that this that we will call impulse of recoil Ir = marma • Varma (the unity of measure of the impulse is Newton x second: N•s), it will depend be at the product between mass of the ball and speed of this one to the flight (definition that that one remembers, not randomly, of the PF: mpalla in wheats multiplied the V0 in fps, divided 1000), that the quantity of dust contained in the cartridge multiplied for K turned the V0, with K to define on the grounds of the calibre, the weapon, the length of the cane and the typology of munitioning (in our hypothesis K=2,4).
Coming now to the theoretical presuppositions that should benefit a heavy ogive compared to a poverty to PF equality, we realise immediately that, having given like initial condition the property I fix the same PF or in other words the same quantity of motion of the bullet (mpalla•V0), two loading will have impulses of recoil that they will differ only for the quantity of motion tied to the mass of the dust, presumably inferior for the heavy ball that besides will move to V0 lower. Here in what does there consist the advantage tied to the use of the heavy balls, advantage increased by the use of such fast dusts at it to minimise the dose (and then the mass). In the end, the advantage obtained in terms of impulse of recoil will be in our case:
ΔIr = Ir light ball 1 - Ir heavy ball 2 =
= 2.4 • (mpolvere 1 • V01 – mpolvere 2 • V02)
with mpolvere 1> mpolvere 2 and V01> V02.
The quantification of the advantage over determinate and all that this influences in terms of survey of the weapon, there will be an object of the next part of the article.
The used measure system (↑)
For structural demands, the handle of a pistol is outside axis in position inferior to the cane. Because of such a configuration, to the moment of the shot, the recoil impulse does not cause a simple backing of the weapon, but the tie on the handle determines a couple that tends to make rotating the pistol towards the high one. The retrograde recoil motion will be decomposed then and absorbed also in the survey. For our proofs we have availed ourselves of a recoiled rest that, because of the own mechanical ties, will "convert" the recoil impulse into the "alone" permitted movement: the survey. To measure be the survey that the speed of the cycle of rearmament, we have used an opportunely modified Caldwell Hammr rest. Particularly we have added, in parallel to the hydraulic spring of call, an electronic type sensor potenziometrico such to notice the elongation (the retrograde rotation of the rest is in fact referable to her in survey - Figura1) it.

Figura1 - Rest and sensor potenziometrico
Besides, a sensor has been built to infrared what coupled to an outline to "L" applied to the pistol, it is able to signal elettronicamente the position of closed trolley, letting us notice so the necessary times for the cycle of rearmament (Figura2).

Figura2 - Rest and sensor trolley
For greater details on the modifications made to the rest, through the index you will be able visionare all the articles relative to Caldwell Hammr.
Organisation of the experiment (↑)
For the experimental proof we have used a pistol very much spread for the dynamic pulling (in category Production), the Tanfoglio Stock II in 9×21, provided with spring of standard recovery 5,37Kg and polygonal cane 113mm. Like reloaded munitions we have considered the adoption of middle-vivacious, progressive - middle and progressive dusts. In this order we have used: economic and diffuse Cheddite Granular S in big granulometry and well-known Vihtavuori N340 and 3N37. For the ogives, wanting to have shape homogeneity to the change of weight, we have chosen a RNFMJ of the Frontier/Northwest 115, 124 and 146gr (these last the detail rastrematura of type boat-tail). In a process of following approximations between simulations to the PC (thanks to the collaboration of Andrew Gatti) and proofs to fire, have been determined the such doses of propellant to produce values of PF how much more possible neighbours to 125. The Tabella1 summarises the doses determined to the conclusion of the proofs.
| Ball in (gr) | Granular S (gr) | N340 (gr) | 3N37 (gr) | V0 theoretical (m/s) | Theoretical PF |
| 115,0 | 4,50 | 5,40 | 6,10 | 332 | 125,3 |
| 124,0 | 4,10 | 4,90 | 5,60 | 308 | 125,3 |
| 146,0 | 3,70 | 4,20 | 5,10 | 261,5 | 125,3 |
Table 1 – Table of the doses
For each one of nine possible combinations between ogives and dusts, reporting to us to the first determinate mathematic relation (Ir = V0 • [mpalla 2,4 • mpolvere]), we have calculated the impulse of theoretical recoil. As shown on the Tabella2, to dust equality, the use of an ogive 146gr against one 115gr, it involves a maximum advantage in terms of impulse, near to 4 %, which drops except for 2,5 % in the comparison with one 124gr. As supposed previously, we have the evidence that: the least recoil is obtained by heavy balls pushed by vivacious dusts; that maximum, with light balls pushed by progressive dusts. Between all the examined combinations, we have subjected to survey test really these two approaches, they give a near calculated maximum discarding to 6 %, we will have then: ball 146gr with dose 3,7gr of Cheddite Granular S (least impulse to 2,62N•s) and ball with 115 wheats with dose 6,1gr of Vihtavuori 3N37 (maximum impulse to 2,79N•s). Like combination for an intermediate impulse, we have chosen the cartridge with ball 124gr and dose of 4,9gr of Vihtavuori N340 (impulse to 2,71N•s).
| m_palla (g) | m_polvere (g) | V0 (m/s) | Ir (N·s) | Diff. (N•s) | Diff. (%) | ||
| Granular | 115 | 7,452 | 0,292 | 332,0 | 2,706 | 0,082 | 3,1 |
| 124 | 8,035 | 0,266 | 308,0 | 2,671 | 0,047 | 1,8 | |
| 146 | 9,461 | 0,240 | 261,5 | 2,624 | 0,000 | 0,0 | |
| N340 | 115 | 7,452 | 0,350 | 332,0 | 2,753 | 0,108 | 4,1 |
| 124 | 8,035 | 0,318 | 308,0 | 2,710 | 0,065 | 2,4 | |
| 146 | 9,461 | 0,272 | 261,5 | 2,645 | 0,000 | 0,0 | |
| 3N37 | 115 | 7,452 | 0,395 | 332,0 | 2,789 | 0,108 | 4,0 |
| 124 | 8,035 | 0,363 | 308,0 | 2,743 | 0,062 | 2,3 | |
| 146 | 9,461 | 0,330 | 261,5 | 2,681 | 0,000 | 0,0 |
Table 2 - Table of the theoretical Impulses
In theory then, between all the combinations of Tabella2, the advantage in the use of a ball 146gr is rather a content, above all in comparison to a reloading with standard ball 124gr.
| Ball in (gr) | Granular S (gr) | N340 (gr) | 3N37 (gr) | V0 theoretical (m/s) | Theoretical PF | Ir (N·s) | Advantage 146gr (%) |
| 115,0 | 6,10 | 332 | 125,3 | 2,789 | 6,3 | ||
| 124,0 | 4,90 | 308 | 125,3 | 2,710 | 3,1 | ||
| 146,0 | 3,70 | 261,5 | 125,3 | 2,624 | 0 |
Table 3 - Table advantage % theoretical for ball 146gr (for all the examined combinations)

Fig. 3 – theoretical Proportion between the total impulse and the component relative to the dust
On the Tabella3 we summarise the theoretical differences, between strength impulses, for the combinations ball / dust chosen. The Figura3 illustrates all that, the component of recoil owed to the propellant, influences the impulse of total recoil.
parte2 ↓
Experimental results (↑)
We leave now the theoretical field and try to examine the practical effects. For the harvesting of the experimental data, according to all that indicated in Tabella4, we have made a ponderal selection of the used ogives.
| I weigh nominal (gr) | Real middle weight (gr) | Tolerance sets up (gr) | Maximum diameter (thumbs) | Length (mm) |
| 115 | 114,6 | ±0,3 | 0,3545 | 14,68 |
| 124,0 | 123,0 | ±0,3 | 0,3545 | 15,38 |
| 146,0 | 146,3 | ±0,3 | 0,3545 boat tail (tail: 0,350) | 17,78 |
Table 4 - ponderal Selection and characteristic ogives
Naturally, in the calculation results there has not been considered the nominal weight, but the real middle weight of the ogives. The proof to fire has unwound to the temperature environment of 32°C with a relative dampness of 21 %, the chronographer has been positioned over a distance at the flight of 2,5m. The munitions have been assembled with: OAL to 29,5mm, triggers CCI500sp, cases It Falls in flakes to the first shot and propellant in dose as Tabella3. The used dust State lotteries are shown in Tabella5.
| Mark | Type | State lottery |
| Cheddite | Granular S (gross) | 6321 |
| Vihtavuori | N340 | - |
| Vihtavuori | 3N37 | 881 of 2005 |
Table 5 - State lotteries of the used dust
The electronic sensoristica that equips the rest, is connected with an acquisition system through PC. The monitored electric signals are shown to video and saved on hard-disk. In Figura4 we present a typical visualisation: the blue trace of the image represents the movement of extension / contraction of the spring of call of the rest. She will get longer up to a peak dependent from the intensity of the impulse of recoil, then to call back the rest for the rest position. To the return in battery it is possible to notice a light bounce of the mechanical system recoiled (arrangement of the electric signal). For the evaluation of the survey of the weapon it has been considered the maximum value of the trace, then correlated to the lengthening in millimetres of the spring.

Fig. 4 – electric Signals generated by the rest and acquired on PC
The red trace (always of Figura4) represents instead the sequence of the trolley. If the electric signal is high, the trolley understands itself opened. After the rearmament cycle, a bounce is noticed in closing that leads the trolley to open again, then to be arranged readily to the following blow. For the evaluation of the time necessary to the rearmament of the pistol it has been considered the duration of preceding opening to the bounce (first part of the signal, about 45ms).

Fig. 5 – Comparison of the electric signals acquired for ogives 115 and 146gr

Fig. 6 – electric Signals generated by the rest and acquired on PC
In Figura5 the comparison is shown between the electric signals obtained to the change of the weight of the ogive (a blow for type). The signals are synchronised in the instant of first opening of the trolley. Making a zoom on the visualisation, in the moment of the initial closing of the breechblock (you see Figura6), it seems to us that he notices a change of slope of the signal elongation (smaller speed of ascent of the rest). We hypothesise what in that point happens the restitution to the system of part of the energy accumulated by spring of recovery and fluent mass of the trolley.
We say suddenly that the differences between the examined munitions give place to variations extremely contained, be in terms of elongation of the spring (differences in the order of 2mm) that of delay in the closing of the weapon (near differences to a second thousandth). For this reason it has been necessary to consider the middle valour on a sufficiently numerous sample (20 blows for typology), in the way of reducing the effect of the natural variability of answer (it disturbs, it conditions of not completely checkable tests, etc.). To make homogeneous the conditions of measure, proof after proof, it has been also considered a constant number of munitions inside the loader (inertia and balance of the weapon). You will find in Tabella6 the synthesis of the middle values obtained during the proofs.
| Ball 146,3gr with Granular S in dose of 3,7gr | ||||||||
| It loads (gr) | Ball (gr) | V0 (m/s) | V0 SD (m/s) | V0 SD (%) | Elongation (mm) | ton trolley (ms) | PF | It (N·s) |
| 3,7 | 146,3 | 264,7 | 3,01 | 1,1 | 27,1 | 44,84 | 127,1 | 2,66 |
| Ball 123,0gr with N340 in dose of 4,9gr | ||||||||
| It loads (gr) | Ball (gr) | V0 (m/s) | V0 SD (m/s) | V0 SD (%) | Elongation (mm) | ton trolley (ms) | PF | It (N·s) |
| 4,9 | 123,0 | 313,7 | 4,76 | 1,5 | 28,3 | 44,21 | 126,6 | 2,74 |
| Ball 114,6gr with 3N37 in dose of 6,1gr | ||||||||
| It loads (gr) | Ball (gr) | V0 (m/s) | V0 SD (m/s) | V0 SD (%) | Elongation (mm) | ton trolley (ms) | PF | It (N·s) |
| 6,1 | 114,6 | 336,5 | 4,63 | 1,4 | 29,2 | 43,8 | 126,5 | 2,82 |
| Ball 123,0gr with Granular S in dose of 4,7gr (sample of control) | ||||||||
| It loads (gr) | Ball (gr) | V0 (m/s) | V0 SD (m/s) | V0 SD (%) | Elongation (mm) | ton trolley (ms) | PF | It (N·s) |
| 4,7 | 123,0 | 340,5 | 2,90 | 0,9 | 31,8 | 43,1 | 137,4 | 2,96 |
Table 6 – Synthesis of the prominent values (averages about 20 samples for type)
The graph of correlation of Figura7, it shows the relation between the survey of the weapon (elongation) and the impulse of recoil calculated (considering: mass bullet, mass dust, V0 noticed and the hypothesised mathematic model). The clouds of points of several colour, they represent different loading: with ball with 115 (in viola), 124 (in yellow) and 146 wheats (in grey), all the near blows in factor 125 (in fact 127), and a group of blows of control with ball with 124 wheats but, to factor 137 (in green). The red rings represent the average of each group of blows, the charge it is instead of the linear interpolation, she defines “the trend of variation”. The correlation (the joined variation) between elongation and calculated impulse turns out to be elevated (R2=0,88; R=0,94), this supplies to us reasonable certitude that, the intuitive relation between more intense recoil and greater elongation of the rest, is proved by the experimental data. To measure elettricamente the lengthening of the sensor, implies then to value the intensity of the recoil.
We notice besides that the points clouds "are filled", in other words there exist blows whose answer (of elongation and impulse), to a punctual examination, can be confused easily with that one blows of the adjacent group. If the "manual" tests entrusted to the sensitiveness of the shooter, were suffering from the same variability, to define which reloading typology supplies the lowest recoil, would be really arduous (difficulty moreover increased by the little entity of the variations).

Fig. 7 – Correlation elongation / impulse and prominent values

Fig. 8 – Correlation time of trolley / impulse and prominent values
The graph of Figura8 shows the correlation between the time of trolley and the calculated impulse. If such a relation observed the averages of different typology of blows (red rings), it would seem evident: slowing down of the trolley while decreasing of the impulse. Passing you give 115 to 146 wheats, the variation of the time of trolley is near to 1ms (1ms = 1 second thousandth). The coefficient of correlation calculated on the totality of the points is instead of bottom (R2=0,32; R=0,56): we notice in fact a "dispersion" of the data that it determines globally, a weak dependence (mathematics) of the time of trolley, at the recoil impulse.

Fig. 9 – Graph of the time of trolley and of the variation % of the same thing to the change of the weight ball (variation % reported to the test with ogive 124gr)
On the graph of Figura9 we have brought back the trend of the middle valour of the time of trolley (it bends in red, staircase of left side) as the weight of the ogive used (115, 124 and 146gr). Taking from reference the answer with ball 124gr, it is possible also to read the percentage variation of such times (it bends in blue, staircase of right hand). As indicated, while growing of the weight of the ogive, the answer of the trolley slows down of about 1ms (the variations are contained approximately in ±1 %).
With the practical purposes a rearmament answer in 45ms or, in 65ms including the bounce of the trolley, it turns out to be already great beyond the best performances of the perfect shooter. Jerry Miculek, one of the fastest shooters in the world, is able to place on target (with a revolver) 8 blows in a second. To hypothesise of being bounded by a cycle of rearmament of 65ms, implies to be able to fire on the target more than 15 blows per second (the report 1/0,065). From this point of view, the millisecondo of delay shown by the cartridges with ball 146gr (compared to those with ball 115gr), seems really negligible to us. Also wanting to consider an abundant surveying error on the times of 10 %, we always remain at a division into instalments of about 14 blows per second.
We start now to examine the effects of a heavy ball on the dynamics of recoil and survey. The graph of Figura10 shows the trend of the prance on the rest as the weight of the ball used (it bends in red, staircase of left side), besides it is possible to compare the survey with the curve of the impulse of recoil calculated (in blue, staircase of right hand). Between the ogive with 115 wheats and that one at 146 records a reduction to herself in the impennamento of about 2mm on a near average to the 28.

Fig. 10 – Graph of the elongation to comparison with the impulse of calculated recoil, as the weight ball
Even more explicative is the graph of Figura11, taking from reference the reloading with ball from 124 wheats, there is shown the percentage variation of the survey and of the impulse of recoil. The variation calculated on the impulse is circumscribed to ±3 % (staircase of right hand) that becomes, as impennamento measured of the rest, 3 % with ball with 115 wheats and one almost-5 % with ball with 146 wheats (staircase of left side). Then, the theoretical datum brings well the real effects near with ogive 115gr but, passing to 146gr, he looks sottostimato (-3 % against-5 %).

Fig. 11 – Graph of the variations of impulse and of elongation, as the weight ball (reported to the test with ogive 124gr)
When the elastic constant one of the spring of call of the rest measured, we can express also the elongation differences, in contrast forces. The elastic constant one of the spring of call is of about 39,0 g/mm, to rest in battery she exercises a near initial strength to 3,4Kg. The maximum contrast strength during the recoil, to the rotating movement of the rest, is represented on the graph of Figura12. We can value better the differences on the forces in game using the graph of Figura13: taking from reference all that happens with ball 124gr, the graph shows a strength of 34 grammes contrast for balls 115gr and of-54 grammes for balls 146gr.

Fig. 12 – Graph of the strength of call on the rest to comparison with the impulse of calculated recoil, as the weight ball

Fig. 13 – Graph of the variation on the strength of call of the rest, as the weight ball (reported to the test with ogive 124gr)
The result of the proofs leads us to believe that, the reduction of the recoil with ball 146gr is present and rilevabile but, of entity, in any case, contained. Besides, let's remember it, the graphs refer to such loading to take the recoil differences to extremes. We had limited ourselves to the replacement of the alone ogive (124 to 146 wheats), maintaining for example, the same vivacious - middle dust (the Granular S), the discarding on the survey answers would have been later on less.
Conclusions (↑)
Even if within certain limits to the examined cases, we could now reply to the initial questions that, actually, have justified the whole research here shown:
1) Does exist a theoretical presupposition that makes incline to the loading with heavy ball?
It exists. The physical laws about the recoil, for the reduction of the same thing, assign really an advantage to the munitioning with heavy ball (to PF equality). Of against, limiting the observation to still "normal" loading, or rather with weights ball not extremes, the theoretical advantage turns out to be rather limited and near at some percent (for the cases examined a theoretical maximum of 6 %).
2) To factor equality, is suited to use heavy balls rather than to read to reduce the survey of the weapon?
If the philosophy is followed “somewhat is better than nothing”. It is in fact truth that the ogives use 146gr involves an advantage in recoil terms but, he turns out to be contained, above all to dust equality and still more, if this last one is sufficiently vivacious (reduced mass).
The advantage in recoil of 146gr compared to 124gr, for the most "distant" combinations between those valued (in dusts terms), is near to 5 % (measured datum), with a difference on the strength of contrast of the rest of about 50 grammes. To equality of vivacious - middle dust (Granular S), the advantage is reduced to about 2,5 % (theoretical datum corrected on the grounds of the experimental datum). To return the idea and with reference to the PF, when Granular S was using, to have an advantage of 2,5 % it implies 128 fires one 146gr to factor but, to have the recoil of one 124gr to factor 125.
The use of an ogive atipicamente heavy, of against, risks distorting the behaviour of the calibre in object (9×21). We can add also that, in connection with a quite modest survey reduction, the use of heavy ogives has a potential criticality as a contraindication on the dosage of the dust (there turns out to be in fact "simpler" the overcoming of the pressure limits Interdepartmental Committee on Prices).
The edge of reduction of the recoil, for a ball 146gr compared to one 124, is so contained that the alone natural variability of the speed between blows of the same typology of loading (standard deviation of the V0, without considering other possible variables), is sufficient to determine an answer superimposition. In other words, there turns out to be substantial the number of the munitions that, even though they have ball 124gr, will recoil less blows with ball increased 146gr.
In Figura14 there is visible an explicative graph in which two distributions are represented for the impulse calculated (number of samples as the recoil corrected on the grounds of the experimental data), to emphasise the phenomenon there has been supposed a standard deviation of the speed equal to 2 % (about 6m/s). The superimposition zone between the distributions (coloured in green) represents the munitions with ogive with 124 wheats (you load with N340) that might have recoil inferior to the analogous blows but, with ogive with 146 (loaded by Granular S). The answer inversion represents about 10 % of the totality of the cartridges (one on 10).
Naturally, more the standard deviation of the chronographic check grows, more the superimposition zone will become wide. The superimposition will turn out to be even more extensive if, for both weights ball, we consider the use of the same vivacious - middle dust (Figura15). In this case, about 27 % of the blows (almost 3 on 10) will present an "opposite" answer.

Fig. 14 – statistical Comparing between recoil impulses for ogives 124gr/N340 and 146gr/Granular S (DevStd of the supposed speed equal to 2 %)

Fig. 15 – statistical Comparing between recoil impulses for ogives 124 and 146gr with Granular S (DevStd of the supposed speed equal to 2 %)
The presented data make including that, in recoil terms, a true difference between the loading would emerge only in the comparison between very light balls and extremely fast (with elevated doses of dust) and heavy and slow balls. For example a ball THV (Très Haut Vitesse), I ream 9 51gr, it can be driven to further 700 m/s (2300 fps) 14gr of dust (we omit intentionally the type). The ball would develop a factor of 118, not even smaller, but he would present a theoretical recoil (if it hypothesised valid the account of the impulse at us considered) of about 45 % more raised compared to the best cartridge with ball 146gr here examined.
3) Using heavy balls is slowed down the cycle of rearmament of the pistol?
The rearmament cycle is slightly slower but, such a slowing down is of "instrumental" entity. In other words, for the examined cases, the heavy ogive does not bring sensitive variations to the "normal" times of rearmament (the slowing down is of about 1 %, nearly to 0,5ms, between ogives 124 and 146gr). The time of middle rearmament of the pistol, about 65ms, remains besides remarkably lower than the best time of execution of the shooter.
Final considerations (↑)
As shown, from the strictly experimental point of view, the differences in recoil between loading with ball 124 and 146gr, here are, they are measurable but, contained. No clean prevalence of a solution emerges compared to other one, and in this the subjectivity of the shooter finds space. In lack of marked and determinant practical advantages, like criteria of choice, the individual sensations remain.
We hope not to have bored you with the length of the article: the argument is not of simple treatment and the detail assumes particular size.
We hope at last that, as here result has satisfied one of your curiosities and is useful in the choices of the parametres of reloading.
Signs
We clinch that the experiment above described was tightened to the comparative evaluation of the impulse of recoil, impulse valued like total intensity of the same thing for the application time and not split in his different components. It has been considered then the impulse without distinction between survey and recoil, this last meant like the share part of the impulse of strength translated in a horizontal movement of the weapon.
As already written about the article, for our proofs we have availed ourselves of a recoiled rest that, because of the own mechanical ties, converts the recoil impulse into the alone permitted movement: the survey. Some shooters passing from loading with heavy ball to those with light ball (to PF equality), inform different division of the recoil between horizontal movement of the weapon and survey, it seems that this last is greater with heavy balls. To be able to test also this aspect of the argument it would be necessary to modify opportunely the surveying system.
Another detail which we have not taken into account in the experimentation is the time of cane of the bullet. In our case, we are talking, in any case, about temporal differences extremely short. One takes into account that the middle time of cane (clean of the lighting delay) is in the order of 500μs with maximum differences, to the change of the weight ball (115÷146gr), what we do not believe to be superior to 100μs.
To equality of total impulse of recoil, a distribution of the same thing on wider times facilitates the reduction of the sensation of “push“ between weapon and shooter, sensation at least in part subjective and more marked for weapons to fixed cane. In these weapons in fact, the recoil influences the shooter as soon as the ball starts speeding up in cane. Of against, in the pistols to recoiled cane, the recoil is expressed at first in the acceleration of the recoiled masses and in smaller forces broadcast by soft part and friction to the shooter, differing the true and own recoil when such masses, particularly the trolley - breechblock, join at run end colliding on the trunk in way independent from the dynamics of acceleration of the same ones.
Hypothesising the above-mentioned times and considering the mass of the weapon "floating" and equal to Kg 1,2 (marma), subjected to a middle total impulse (It) of 2,75 N*s, we obtain a speed of recoil of the pistol of: Varma = It/marma = 2,75/1,2 = 2,29m/s. Such recoil speed is reached by the weapon substantially on the cane time, more exactly on the time of transition of the phenomenon of deflagration (we suppose the cane of the fixed weapon).
The acceleration of the weapon, hypothesised costing, will be then a draw to:
- in case of the ogive with 115 wheats, for a supposed time of transition of 450μs (tc1) will have, a115=Varma/tc1=2,29 / (0,45*10-3) =5089m/s2
- in case of the ogive with 146 wheats, for a supposed time of transition of 550μs (tc2) will have, a146=Varma/tc2=2,29 / (0,55*10-3) =4164m/s2
The forces applied respectively to the cane will be:
- in case of the ogive with 115 wheats, F115=marma*a115=1,2*5089=6107 N
- in case of the ogive with 146 wheats, F146=marma*a146=1,2*4164=4997 N
As far as shown on the article, we have theoretical and experimental evidence that the recoil impulses for both loading are comparable (similar energy of recoil assumed by the weapon). Different forces applied to the pistol will differ then for the application time: inferior for the greatest strength (time of smaller cane) and superior for the smallest strength (time of greater cane), speeding at last the weapon up with comparable speeds.
| Article published also about the numbers of November and December 2009 of the review “Weapons Magazine” |
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14 it comments for “Dynamic Pulling:
light ball or heavy ball?”
Julio on Oct 21, 2009
Good boys, beautiful work, I wait with anxiety for the second part.
It is at least two years about that I quarrel with all saying that the difference between heavy and standard ball (150grs - 124grs) is insignificant.
Also I, in very empiric way, was supposing a difference around 2 % of quite hardly appreciable one from the shooter. That then the conviction that the heavy ball does to you to draw better comes true with better real results, sometimes it is a fact … but it is about effect placebo and nothing else.
If you are convinced that with the red underwear it draws better and in your specific case work … because not to do it, but there to to advise it other shooters … it it passes to us!
Julio
Brown on Oct 21, 2009
Thank you for the article and the information.
Finally something of professionally valid one equipped by scientific bases!
Arming on Oct 22, 2009
The perfect clarification, graces I wait for the following one.
Armando35
Antonio on Oct 22, 2009
it compliments for the interesting article, I think, in any case, that the question should be subjective visas the results of the experimentation of you made unless the second part of the article books surprises for us as to.
JAKO on Oct 22, 2009
When it is said of ENERGY of the RECOIL, the quantity of motion to which it becomes a reference is an effect but the true value to be regarded is not the quantity itself of motion that the projectile MAINTAINS during his run (subject to decay as other vectors as the strength of gravity and the friction with the air) also in order that the quantity of motion be used the experts in the PUSHES type accidents.
In the THIRD BEGINNING OF the DYNAMICS it becomes a reference to the STRENGTH that as it is well-known is measured in Newton or mass x accellerazione (and not for the speed!!!)
- I deal at WIKIPEDIA's but easily recoverable on any treaty on physics ….—
To notice the fact what for the law of conservation of the quantity of motion the ENERGY OF the BULLET than the mouth can never be greater than the total energy of the recoil. If at first sight this affirmation can seem absurd, his truth becomes brilliant if it is considered that the kinetic energy is a direct report of the mass and of the motion of an object. Then while the bullet possesses a mass comparatively modest and it purchases a considerable speed, the weapon, which has a mass in the superior order of the tens or hundreds of times to him, purchases a reduced speed and as a result a scarce energy that comes off its hinges besides on a surface much greater of that one of the bullet and that can be hindered then easily at the support mass.
Another thing to be regarded: the strength applied on the face of the breechblock expressed in Newton (tied to the PRODUCED KINETIC ENERGY …) as be dispersed for effect of the third beginning of the dynamics? in the scarrellamento and on the arms of the shooter himself! since also the trolley is subject to an accellarazione, during his retrograde motion that is functional to the contrast of the spring and to the type of closing of the weapon.
Taking the principal aspect into account that the strength generated by the same cartridge eslposa with a weapon to labile closing causes a recoil cleanly different from that caused on one arm to geometric closing ….c' it is to be taken into account that when cartridges were applying a smaller strength on the typical face of the breechblock to heavy ball necessity of an as smaller contrast and therefore the spring itself will have to have going of inferior libbraggio to allow a greater ACCELLERAZIONE of the retrograde motion of the trolley itself so that the STRENGTH applied on the face of the trolley itself IS DISPELLED below shape of KINETIC ENERGY of the mass traslante and the rest absorbed through the hand of the shooter in the body itself!
Where I would want to reach ….che the strength applied on the face of the breechblock it is as the ENERGY DEVELOPED to the mouth, that this strength must be dispersed in the best way if it loves to itself to improve the SENSATION OF RECOIL, since the heavy ball impresses a smaller STRENGTH, it is necessary that the trolley has a smaller contrast to be able to develop a greater accellerazione and as a result a greater KINETIC ENERGY, here the motive of the necessity of reducing the cargo of the spring itself.
Another factor extremely determinant is the dust typology … but here I stop because I would go dealing with thermoballistic questions of which I am not very much shod.
The proof on the rest therefore, according to my modest opinion, so how is it does not supply exactly the real sensations because without changing the recovery spring and without using a correct reloading the subjective advantages of a ball are thwarted compared to an other one.
All the consideration I am a fruit of the most personal practical proofs in years of experiments and of the study on the texts of physics of the superior schools (it are not an engineer but a simple industrial expert). and of proofs in cane manometrica kindly put to disposition with the firm NORTWEST of CARASCO (GE) in whose prints of the results it does not seem to me that he has seen like unity of measure the QUANTITÀ of MOTION but the PRODUCED KINETIC ENERGY ever, but perhaps I might make a mistake ….
Distinctly
Stefano Iacomini
JAKO on Oct 22, 2009
Like the most personal suggestion, I would want to indicate a different "prescription" to make a correct comparison: there go perfectly all the reloadings indicated with light ball but for all the rigurada those heavy I would advise of using the With 320 and not the With 340 and would substitute the recovery spring with one of libbraggio sensitively inferior for that one original of at least 4 or 5 pounds.
Distinctly
Stefano Iacomini
Speedy on Oct 23, 2009
Hello Stefano,
we thank you for your long intervention on the proof of which in object. We have read very attentively your messages and can tell you that we had already hypothesised a recoil proof to the change of the "hardness" of the spring of recovery. Such a variable has not been considered in the already made test because there was loving to itself several loading discriminate the behaviour of to equality of other conditions to the contour. During the test we have based ourselves on the quantity of motion and not on the energy because the whole literature of we consulted on the argument was facing so the problems. We will reflect later on on the eventuality of reconsidering the mathematic model taking into account instead of what of the quantity of motion, of the kinetic energy.
Yours faithfully,
Speedy.
Julio on Nov 23, 2009
Good boys! Also the second part is the most interesting, subject to the practical convictions of each one, I would say that after the recoil also on the rearmament time we can put the thin word. Of course, as Stefano says, with different dusts it itself might make a little bit greater the measurable percentages of recoil and of rearmament in favour of the heavy ball, it still increases probably modifying the springs of the weapon but, I am convinced that such differences would be, in any case, impossible to "feel" aside not only of the common shooter but also of that more expert, if not for psychologic conviction. I get round this is my opinion, each one amuses himself as it believes. In any case the merit of the article that, I am sure, will do to you history.
G.
Speedy on Nov 23, 2009
Thank you Julio!
Wondernine on Nov 23, 2009
Very interesting and very well done!
It would be even more interesting to repeat the test with a calibre type.40 or.45 where the ponderal variations of the disposable bullets are even greater.
Yours faithfully, wondernine
Kirk on Dec 28, 2009
Big really a beautiful work! I have waited with anxiety for the second one parte:-). only a pair of suggestions prays that you have every ready xè not to repeat the proof substituting the cane with the compensated one and to see what happens, it might be interesting. And then if possible to equip all of it with some video perhaps with high speed. It compliments again. Thank you
Speedy on February 6, 2010
X Jako,
as to your intervention of 22/Ott/09, we have added in the signs some considerations that should represent a connection, between the theoretical run of us followed and as you supported.
Jako on February 7, 2010
Compliment really!
The proofs, the article and the following integration have been well done and you document in lofty way.
Own today afternoon, with purpose of the second competition of the Regional Lombardy, we have done proofs to fire to value the recoil sensations between the cartridges with 124 grs copper plated and 158 armoured discharges about two different Tanfoglio, the first one a Sotck II with spring with 13-14 pounds for the cartridges with light ball and the second one a normal Stock with spring with 9 pounds for the cartridges with heavy ball.
The proof has been carried out by three expert shooters about two shapes put to 5 metres and you hire alternatively with a very fast series of blows: apart from the different sonorous effect that it carves probably only on the psychologic aspect, two shooters who habitually fire with the light ones had the impression of seeing "avoiding" the weapon, while vice versa I, who I fire many years with the heavy ones, have been well with both.
I propose of trying between 15 gg, to try to fire in the near winter competition with the light balls and the heaviest spring to be able then expresses my "sensations" to fire in competition, particularly on the management of the rhythm on the rhythmic pulling and on the precision.
I have still aside a thousand of Lapua armoured by 123 grs, always want to try to load them with the N320 and then I will let you know.
Graces and congratulations
Stefano Iacomini
Andrew on Sea 27, 2010
Congratulations, the most interesting exhaustive and quite done proof. Like supporter of heavy balls, I fire with LeadExtrusion 148gn, VVN340, Stock 9×21mm, I would have wanted aggiungre also the considerations about the libraggio to be adopted, diverged by heavy ball, but the good Jako has esaudientemente espresso all that there was necessary to write and there is nothing more then to add. It remains, in any case, to remark in the choice of the balls that the low speed of the heavy ones offers a smaller stability of the bullet for road of the smallest obvious speed of rotation. In the long distances he is translated in smaller precision and wide pink.
Although the sensations on the hands should be necessary always to be considered empiric and subjective, I want to say in any case that the riculo difference between a 123gn and one 148gn is informed easily, and also the difference with a spring with 12 pounds with one of 9 pounds to equality of (heavy) ball.
Andrew