Have you ever looked at a bullet and thought the whole thing flies out of the gun when fired? You’re not alone — many people think that! But in reality, only a small part of what we call a “bullet” is actually the projectile. Let’s break down how a bullet works using a simple explanation and visual references.
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What Is a Bullet?
When you see a bullet, you’re actually looking at a cartridge — a complete package made up of different components. Each part has a specific role in making the bullet fire correctly.
Here’s what it consists of:
1. The Bullet (Projectile)
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This is the actual part that shoots out and hits the target.
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Usually made of lead or lead alloy, covered with a copper jacket.
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Designed to be aerodynamic, so it can travel with less air resistance.
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Typical weight: 7.5 to 9.5 grams.
2. The Casing
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Made of brass or steel.
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Holds all internal components: bullet, propellant, and primer.
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Also acts as a barrier, preventing gas from leaking out during firing.
3. The Propellant
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Older guns used traditional black powder.
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Modern bullets use smokeless powder (a mix of nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin).
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Amount used: 0.26 to 0.39 grams.
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When ignited, it produces high-pressure gas that forces the bullet forward.
4. The Primer
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A small explosive component located at the base of the casing.
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Ignites when struck by the firing pin.
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Its spark lights the propellant.
How Does a Bullet Fire?
Here’s what happens when you pull the trigger:
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The firing pin hits the primer.
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The primer ignites and sends a spark to the propellant.
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The propellant burns rapidly, creating a huge volume of gas.
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As the pressure builds, the bullet is forced out of the casing.
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It exits the barrel and travels toward the target at 300–420 m/s.
Bullet Firing vs. Cannon Firing – Similar Action!
Interestingly, this whole process is similar to how a cannon works — just on a smaller scale! In fact, our earlier video explained the cannon’s working in detail, and the principles are almost identical: build pressure, release it through a projectile.
Conclusion
So the next time you see a bullet, remember: it’s not the whole thing that flies — just the tip! Behind that shot is a tiny but powerful chain reaction happening in milliseconds.
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