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Module 4 - Forensic Ballistics

Lesson 1 - Firearm Basics

Graph #3

Graph Question 3

Comparison of the TRAJECTORY of Ammunition Fired from Various Firearms

Problem: How does the trajectory of a projectile differ when fired by a handgun, a rifle, or a shotgun?

Procedure:
  • Use the data below to plot three lines on one graph.
  • Use the x-axis to represent the three distances: 0 m (muzzle), 50 m, and 100 m.
  • Use the y-axis to represent change in height in centimetres.
  • Provide a legend for your graph; a title is given.
   CHANGE IN HEIGHT
(centimetres)
Distance from Firearm(m)
Type of Firearm Type of Ammunition Type of Bullet 0m
(muzzle)		 50m 100m 200m
Pistol 9 mm Luger Jacketed hollow point -2.1 -7.9 -14.5 -21.9
Rifle .223 Remington Metal jacket -2.9 -4.8 -7.2 -14.0
Shotgun 12-gauge Slug 3inch/ 1oz. slug -3.8 -9.4 -18.9 -31.8

Click Here for paper to use as a graph.

Related Questions:

Trajectory of Ammunition Fired from Various Firearms

  1. Explain which type of firearm ammunition is the most accurate at hitting its target at short range (50 m).
    Ans.  The pistol is the most accurate at hitting its target at short range.  Its bullet falls only 2.1 metres; the rifle and shotgun fall 2.9 m and 3.8 m respectively.
  2. Explain which type of firearm ammunition is the most accurate at hitting its target at longer ranges.
    Ans.   The rifle (.223 Remington) is the most accurate at hitting its target at long range. Its bullet falls only 14 cm after travelling 200 metres; the pistol and the shotgun rounds each fall 21.9 cm and 31.8 cm respectively.