In ammunition, a unit of mass, specifically 1/7000th of a pound, is used to measure the weight of the projectile and the propellant. This measurement, often referred to when discussing cartridges, directly influences the bullet’s velocity and trajectory. For example, a bullet described as “115 grain” indicates its mass.
The mass measurement plays a critical role in determining the performance characteristics of ammunition. A heavier projectile, indicated by a higher figure, generally delivers more energy to the target but may have a lower velocity and a more curved trajectory. Understanding this unit is fundamental for selecting appropriate ammunition for specific purposes, optimizing factors like range, penetration, and recoil.