Abstract: A back-actuated forward ignition cartridge having a case, a puller sabot and rod penetrator projectile in the forward mouth end of the case, and a combination compacted propellant solid mass and loose propellant charge ignitable by back ignition through actuation of a rear primer and guided flame propagation through a guide tube extending through the compacted propellant mass and to the vicinity of the loose propellant charge, while preventing ignition of the compacted propellant mass as the flame passes along the tube therethrough. The guide tube has a booster ignition charge therein to assist in forward flame propagation and ignition of the loose propellant. Burning of the loose propellant charge effects pressurized constriction of the sabot about the projectile and drives the sabot/projectile from the case and along a barrel bore, thereby increasing the effective burning volume prior to ignition of the compacted propellant solid mass.

Abstract: An improved sabot fragment and gun gas diverter of particular utility in conjunction with a rotatable multiple barrel gun is described, which comprises, a diverter member mounted forward of the barrels for rotation therewith and defining a generally conical, radially outwardly divergent impact surface from which sabot fragments are diverted outwardly upon impact thereon; a plurality of axial bores through and spaced around the diverter member correspond in number to and are respectively coaxial with the rotatable gun barrels; an impact surface is attached to the gun forward of the diverter member for diverting the fragments from the gun in a predetermined direction relative to the gun; a housing around the diverter member defining an internal chamber into which the fragments are diverted from the diverter member may include the impact surface as a forward end wall thereof, and may include an exit port for passage of fired projectiles and discharge ports for discharging diverted sabot fragments.

Abstract: An improved device for the air dropping of platform-mounted cargo is presed wherein a multi-staged parachute system allows for a rapid descent during the initial phase of the trajectory and then reduces the rate of descent during the terminal stage to allow for a safe landing.

Abstract: The bullet for a training cartridge has a thin probe extending therefrom to reduce its maximum range. The training cartridge provides realistic trajectory, sound, recoil and sighting accuracy and produces identifiable target penetration with reduced risk of richochet and to create the same cartridge profile as a conventional round but with limited range suitable to training purposes. The thin, elongated probe has a blunted nose and joins the main body of the bullet on a tapered surface.