US20050183318A1 - Muzzle loading firearm, gun barrel design, projectile system and method of using thereof - Google Patents
Muzzle loading firearm, gun barrel design, projectile system and method of using thereof Download PDFInfo
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- US20050183318A1 US20050183318A1 US10/755,257 US75525704A US2005183318A1 US 20050183318 A1 US20050183318 A1 US 20050183318A1 US 75525704 A US75525704 A US 75525704A US 2005183318 A1 US2005183318 A1 US 2005183318A1
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- Prior art keywords
- gun barrel
- breech
- muzzle
- caliber
- projectile
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 8
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 title description 9
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 claims description 39
- 238000010304 firing Methods 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007812 deficiency Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002360 explosive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000002445 nipple Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000008188 pellet Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009877 rendering Methods 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F41—WEAPONS
- F41A—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS COMMON TO BOTH SMALLARMS AND ORDNANCE, e.g. CANNONS; MOUNTINGS FOR SMALLARMS OR ORDNANCE
- F41A21/00—Barrels; Gun tubes; Muzzle attachments; Barrel mounting means
Definitions
- the invention relates generally to muzzle loading firearms wherein the breech end of the barrel is shaped to accept a blank cartridge case of the same or a different caliber than the bore of the muzzle.
- a gun barrel, projectile system, and method of using the same is also part of the invention.
- a long standing problem in the design of muzzle loading or black powder firearms is that the powder is exposed to the elements. This exposure results in degraded performance of the firearm due to powder which has been dampened or otherwise effected by the elements. Exposure to the elements is particularly a problem for hunters who are afield during inclement weather and must load their weapon during periods of rain or snow, all the while attempting to protect the powder and firing mechanisms. A related problem is that the powder charge receptacle is exposed and thus may be susceptible to inadvertent loss of part or all of the powder. To alleviate these problems, one must carry, in addition to the firearm, a complement of tools and accessories suited to keep the firearm in operable condition. These tools and accessories include loose powder in a container such as a powder horn or powder flask, loose primers, a nipple wrench, nipple picks, and breech plug tools.
- the present invention provides a muzzle loading firearm which fires a projectile having a first caliber, and which has a barrel bore shaped to accommodate the first caliber.
- the breech end of the firearm has a chamber which is shaped to accept a standard blank metallic cartridge case of the same or a different caliber of the projectile.
- the blank cartridge contains a primer and powder, but lacks a projectile.
- the cartridge chamber and the muzzle bore are connected by a suitably shaped opening. Upon discharge of the firearm, the powder charge from the cartridge case causes the projectile to be expelled from the muzzle.
- the present invention provides a gun barrel for use in a muzzle loading firearm, said gun barrel comprising:
- the present invention provides a firearm comprising:
- the present invention provides a muzzle-end loading firearm comprising:
- the present invention provides a substantially cylindrical gun barrel for use in a muzzle loading firearm, said gun barrel comprising:
- the present invention provides a method of increasing the reliability of a muzzle loading firearm, the method comprising:
- the sixth general aspect, the present invention provides a projectile system, adapted for use with a muzzle loading firearm, comprising:
- FIG. 1A is a side sectional view of a first type of gun barrel of the related art
- FIG. 1B is a side sectional view of a second type gun barrel of the related art
- FIG. 2 is a sectional elevational view of cartridge case of the related art
- FIG. 3A is a side sectional view of a first embodiment of a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 3B is a side sectional view of a second embodiment of a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 3C is a side sectional view of a third embodiment of a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 4A is a close-up side sectional view of a breech portion of the gun barrel shown in FIG. 3A , in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 4B is a close-up side sectional view of a breech portion of the gun barrel shown in FIG. 3B , in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 5A is a side sectional view of a first embodiment of a projectile system, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 5B is a side sectional view of a second embodiment of a projectile system, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 5C is a side sectional view of a third embodiment of a projectile system, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 6A is a side section view of a first embodiment of a gun barrel and projectile system, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 6B is a side section view of a second embodiment of a gun barrel and projectile system, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a firearm with a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention.
- FIGS. 1A and 1B depict a gun barrel 100 with a muzzle end 104 and at the distal end, a breech end 103 . Both gun barrels 100 have a bore 101 .
- FIG. 1A shows the gun barrel 100 that might be used in a typical “modern” breech-end loading gun barrel design, such as for a 0.308 rifle. That is a projectile “system” (not shown), which includes a cartridge case having a powder charge and a projectile, is totally loaded from the breech end 103 of the gun barrel 100 into a chamber 102 that is configured to match the shape and size of the projectile system inserted therein. Upon the firing of a weapon (not shown) with the gun barrel 100 shown, the projectile (not shown) is ejected towards the target from the muzzle end 104 .
- the caliber of the bore 101 is smaller than that of the chamber 102 . That is the cartridge case, containing a charge therein, is of larger diameter than the diameter of the projectile.
- the caliber of the projectile typically matches that of the bore 101 , while the caliber of the actual cartridge case matches that of the chamber 102 .
- FIG. 1B shows a gun barrel 100 that is used in a typical “modem” in-line muzzle-loading firearm, such as a black powder rifle.
- the gun barrel 100 has a bore 101 that has at one end a muzzle end 104 at which both the powder and projectile is loaded.
- a breech end 103 which includes a series of threads 106 which allows for the threaded insertion in the breech end 103 of a breech plug 105 .
- the breech plug 105 includes a primer 107 opening from which the powder is activated. Upon the activation of the powder, the projectile is ejected towards the intended target.
- a typical cartridge case 200 may include the following elements: mouth 210 , neck 220 , shoulder 230 , first element 240 , flash hole 250 , web 260 , extractor groove 270 , primer pocket 280 , second element 290 , and powder charge 295 .
- a bullet, or projectile, (not shown) may be seated in mouth 210 .
- a primer (not shown) is seated in the primer pocket 280 .
- the primer ignites and in turn causes the powder charge 295 to controllably explode, thus forcing a bullet (not shown) from the muzzle of the firearm.
- Cartridge cases such as cartridge case 200 may be found in a variety of configurations, including straight-walled versions which lack the shoulder area. Cartridge cases may also be had in a variety of sizes depending on the size or designated caliber of their corresponding bullet.
- the present invention improves upon the related art and offers distinct, and numerous, advantages beyond it.
- the present invention may be employed with virtually any firearm, such as rifle, smoothbore musket, pistol, revolver, shotgun, grenade launcher, or the like.
- FIGS. 3A, 3B , and 3 C depict side sectional views of three different embodiments of a gun barrel of the present invention. While all the embodiments, when integrated with a firearm, may be termed the “McGivern Muzzle-Loading Firearm”, the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3C may be further termed a modern breech design, while the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3B may be further termed a straight wall design. Regardless of nomenclature, the gun barrels, depicted by a 10 , have common elements and common purpose, yet variations in meeting that purpose.
- the gun barrels 10 all have a muzzle end 15 at which the projectile (See e.g. FIGS. 5A-5C ) is both loaded into and from which the projectile ejects from upon the firing of a firearm that the gun barrel 10 is part thereof.
- the gun barrel 10 include a bore 16 of a first diameter 30 , or caliber.
- This bore 16 can be of any standard size caliber freely manufactured in the industry.
- the bore 16 may be a 0.50 caliber, 0.45 caliber, 0.308 caliber, etc.
- the bore 16 certainly can be of any customized, unique diameter.
- At the distal end of the gun barrel 10 is a breech end 11 having a breech chamber 12 of particular design and configuration.
- the breech chamber 12 has a second diameter 31 , or caliber.
- the breech chamber 12 also has breech walls 13 which are adjacent to the cartridge upon its insertion into breech chamber 12 .
- the breech chamber 12 similarly, can be configured to match and receive the shape and diameter, of standard size caliber cartridge blanks currently manufactured in the industry.
- the breech chamber 12 can instead be of a unique, customized shape, configuration and caliber so as to match a custom charge that is placed therein. In either embodiment there is no requirement for an adaptor (not shown) or other additional elements to be located between the outside surface of a cartridge and the breech walls 13 .
- the present invention allows for the muzzle end 15 loading of the projectile, while having the charge (e.g., powder within a cartridge casing) be loaded from a breech end 11 of the gun barrel 10 .
- the charge e.g., powder within a cartridge casing
- One way the invention achieves this capability is by configuring the breech end 11 of the gun barrel 10 so that a standard caliber cartridge casing (not shown) with powder, yet no projectile (i.e., “blank” cartridge), may fit therein.
- the present invention may configure the gun barrel 10 so that the first diameter 30 of the bore 16 is larger in diameter than the second diameter 31 of the breech chamber 12 .
- the firearm would harmlessly discharge. This is because the burning powder gases would pass around the ejecting projectile in the gun barrel 10 due to the larger diameter of the bore 16 than the projectile.
- the gun user inserts a traditional 0.308 projectile (i.e., bullet and charge) into the breech end 11 of a gun barrel 10 of the present invention in which the breech chamber 12 is configured to hold a 0.308 charge. That is the diameter of the projectile is approximately a 0.308 caliber diameter. If the user then were to fire the firearm, because the first diameter 30 is larger than the second diameter 31 , although the charge would be activated, the projectile would leave the muzzle end 15 of the gun barrel 10 with little, or no, force and energy.
- a traditional 0.308 projectile i.e., bullet and charge
- the firearm using an embodiment of the gun barrel 10 of the invention has the added safety benefit of only having successful operation of the firearm by loading a blank charge in the breech chamber 12 , while in consort loading a projectile from the muzzle end 15 .
- the embodiment in FIG. 3A includes a connector opening 22 located at the forward end of the breech chamber 12 , before the bore 16 .
- the breech chamber 12 has multiple diameters.
- the connector opening 22 has a third diameter 32 .
- the connector opening 22 is a necked down portion of the gun barrel 10 wherein the third diameter 32 is smaller than second diameter 31 .
- the connector opening 22 portion includes a cant 20 against which the shoulder portion of the cartridge rests against.
- the cant 20 forms a frusto-conical shaped portion of the breech chamber 12 .
- This embodiment Facing towards the muzzle end 15 , adjacent the connector opening 22 is a stop 19 .
- the stop 19 provides a surface against which the projectile rests upon the projectile's insertion into the bore 16 .
- the stop 19 thus, allows the projectile to have some purchase against the gun barrel 10 .
- the straight wall design depicted in FIG. 3B includes a stop 19 against which the projectile rests upon the projectile's insertion into the bore 16 .
- the gun barrel 10 in FIG. 3B includes a connector opening 22 between the breech chamber 12 and bore 16 or at the forward end of the breech chamber 12 .
- the connector opening 22 has a third diameter 32 .
- the third diameter 32 has a diameter equal to the second diameter 31 . That is, the breech chamber 12 in this embodiment is of uniform diameter.
- FIG. 3C depicts a third embodiment of a gun barrel 10 . While similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3A , this embodiment further includes threads 14 on the exterior surface of the breech chamber 12 at the breech end 11 of the gun barrel 10 .
- the threads 14 provide one type of an attachment means for the gun barrel 10 to the rest of the firearm.
- the attachment threads 14 may be located on an interior surface of the breech chamber 12 .
- the second diameter 31 of the breech chamber 12 in this embodiment is larger in caliber than the first diameter 30 of the bore 16 .
- FIG. 3A may alternatively have a first diameter 30 that is equal to, or even greater than, the second diameter 31 .
- the connector opening 22 could be configured so that the third diameter 32 is the same caliber as the second diameter 31 .
- variations of the embodiment of FIG. 3B could include a gun barrel 10 in which the third diameter 22 is smaller than the second diameter 31 .
- any of the gun barrels 10 of the invention may further employ rifling on the interior surface of the gun barrel 10 .
- FIGS. 4A and 4B show close-up sectional views of the breech end 11 and breech chamber 12 portion of the gun barrel 10 embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B , respectively.
- Both embodiments includes a threaded portion 14 at the breech end 11 of the barrel 10 .
- a chamber insert 17 has matching threads 14 thereby allowing the threading attachment of the chamber insert 17 with the gun barrel 10 .
- the interior of the chamber insert 17 forms a breech chamber 12 with breech walls 13 .
- the inclusion of threads 14 on both the exterior surface of the chamber insert 17 and the interior surface of the gun barrel 10 allows for the facile replacement of the chamber insert 17 .
- a gun user can readily change chamber inserts 17 for maintenance reasons and/or to change breech chamber 12 configurations (e.g., shapes, diameter(s) 31 , 32 , connector openings 22 , etc.).
- FIGS. 5A, 5B , and 5 C depict side sectional views of various embodiments.
- the various projectile systems 40 includes a charge 45 and a projectile 50 .
- the projectile 50 is loaded into the gun barrel 10 via the muzzle end 15
- the charge 45 is loaded into the breech chamber 12 at the breech end 11 of the gun barrel 10 .
- the charge 45 includes a cartridge case 41 in which is explosive powder 42 of suitable composition.
- Powder 42 that may be employed include smokeless powder, black powder, Pyrodex® powder, pellets, black powder substitutes, or the like, or combinations thereof.
- the powder 42 upon its ignition by suitable means ultimately provides the explosive gases which project the projectile 50 out of the gun barrel 10 .
- the term projectile 50 includes a bullet 53 (or de facto projectile) and all appurtenances attached thereto when the bullet 53 are loaded into the muzzle-end 15 of the gun barrel 10 .
- Attached to the bullet 53 is a sabot 51 .
- the sabot 51 protects the bullet 52 while it exits the gun barrel 10 and typically falls away harmlessly once the bullet 52 does exit.
- the sabot 51 typically made of a suitable, self-lubricating material, such as plastic, helps to make the loading of the bullet 53 into the gun barrel 10 easier.
- the configuration of the sabot 51 is such that it mates snugly with the bullet 52 and mates suitably with both a sabot mate 43 that is part of the charge 45 and adjoins the stop 19 that is between the breech chamber 12 and bore 16 (See e.g., FIGS. 3A and 3B ).
- the sabot 51 thus, may have a stop mate surface 52 which is configured to allow the sabot 51 to fit tightly against the stop 19 upon the loading of the projectile 50 into the gun barrel 10 .
- FIGS. 5A-5C there are numerous configurations for the projectile system 40 , including the bullet 53 , sabot 51 , and sabot mate 43 .
- FIG. 5A shows a sabot mate 43 that is convex in curvature, while the matching sabot 51 is concave in shape.
- the motion arrow, depicted by a “T”, shows the movement and mating positioning of both the charge 45 and projectile 50 upon the loading of both into the gun barrel 10 from either end.
- FIG. 5B shows a different configuration of sabot mate 43 and sabot 51 .
- This embodiment the sabot 51 includes a male extension, while the sabot mate 42 has a matching female receiving opening.
- the sabot mate 42 could be a receiving wad.
- the embodiment shown in FIG. 5B could be used with a shot shell or straight-walled cartridge case.
- FIG. 5C has a cartridge case 41 with a leading extension that includes a receiving wad 44 that fits within, and matches, the female opening on the sabot 51 .
- calibers of breech chamber 12 and bore 16 may be employed. Matching this, various caliber of cartridge case 41 and projectile 50 can likewise be used.
- standard diameters 30 , 31 may be employed for the caliber of breech chamber 12 and bore 16 , respectively.
- the second diameter 31 may be a 0.45 caliber, while the bore 16 has a 0.50 caliber first diameter 30 .
- standard caliber charges 45 may be used with the present invention, as can standard caliber bullets 53 .
- standard means, calibers of charge 45 and bullet 53 that are typically available to the gun using public.
- the present invention may utilize customize caliber and configuration, as well.
- FIG. 6A depicts a side sectional view of one embodiment of both a gun barrel 10 and the projectile system 40 in use within the gun barrel 10 .
- the charge 45 may be, for example, in a 0.45 caliber blank cartridge case 41 .
- the bore 16 in FIG. 6 is a 0.50 caliber bore.
- the bullet 53 has been loaded from the muzzle end 15 of the barrel 10 to where the bullet 53 rests against the stop 19 of the chamber insert 17 .
- the chamber insert 17 is configured to receive the cartridge case 41 which includes the powder 42 and an element 44 .
- the element 44 may be a powder and compression plug 44 or a powder container plug 44 .
- the caliber of the chamber 12 is smaller than the caliber of the bore 16 . Note also, that in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6 no sabot is used. Additionally, the exterior surface of the cartridge case 41 rests against, or is adjacent to, the chamber insert 17 . Thus, the cartridge case 41 is adjacent to the chamber.
- FIG. 6B depicts a side sectional view of a second embodiment of both a gun barrel 10 and the projectile system 40 in use within the gun barrel 10 .
- the gun barrel 10 has no stops 19 on which the bullet 53 partially rests.
- the bullet 53 in this embodiment, with s sabot 51 , has been loaded from the muzzle end 15 of the barrel 10 to where the bullet 53 and sabot 51 rest against, and mates with, an element 44 of a cartridge case 41 .
- the cartridge case 41 which includes the powder 42 and an element 44 .
- the element 44 may be a powder and compression plug 44 or a powder container plug 44 .
- the caliber of the chamber 12 is equal to the caliber of the bore 16 .
- the exterior surface of the cartridge case 41 rests on, or adjacent to, the chamber 12 .
- the cartridge case 41 is adjacent to the chamber 12 .
- FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of an entire firearm 1 employing the gun barrel 10 of the present invention.
- Several pieces of the firearm 1 are standard to the art including a stock 6 , trigger assembly 2 , sights 5 , hammer 3 , and the like.
- the gun barrel 10 is attached to the rest of the firearm 1 , in this embodiment at a hinge 7 , thereby allowing the user to open, via the hinge 7 , and access the breech end 11 for loading of the charge 45 (see e.g., FIGS. 5A, 5B , and 5 C) into the breech chamber 12 .
- the user Upon closing of the gun barrel 10 , denoted by motion arrow “M”, the user then may load a projectile 50 in the muzzle end 15 of the gun barrel 10 . Upon the adequate mating of the projectile 50 against the charge 45 (see e.g., FIG. 6 ), and proper aiming, safety checks, etc., the user can then activate the firearm 1 via pulling the trigger assembly 2 .
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Abstract
The invention relates to a gun barrel in muzzle loading firearm with a breech portion that receives a cartridge case and a muzzle that receives a projectile and an opening that connects both. Also a gun barrel with an opening, or passage bore, that is smaller than the bore of the muzzle end of the firearm is disclosed. A firearm and method of using a firearm with this type of gun barrel is disclosed, as is a projectile system that entails a cartridge with a charge that loads from a breech end and a projectile that loads from the muzzle end of the firearm.
Description
- 1. Technical Field
- The invention relates generally to muzzle loading firearms wherein the breech end of the barrel is shaped to accept a blank cartridge case of the same or a different caliber than the bore of the muzzle. A gun barrel, projectile system, and method of using the same is also part of the invention.
- 2. Related Art
- A long standing problem in the design of muzzle loading or black powder firearms is that the powder is exposed to the elements. This exposure results in degraded performance of the firearm due to powder which has been dampened or otherwise effected by the elements. Exposure to the elements is particularly a problem for hunters who are afield during inclement weather and must load their weapon during periods of rain or snow, all the while attempting to protect the powder and firing mechanisms. A related problem is that the powder charge receptacle is exposed and thus may be susceptible to inadvertent loss of part or all of the powder. To alleviate these problems, one must carry, in addition to the firearm, a complement of tools and accessories suited to keep the firearm in operable condition. These tools and accessories include loose powder in a container such as a powder horn or powder flask, loose primers, a nipple wrench, nipple picks, and breech plug tools.
- Thus, a need exists for a simple and reliable improvement to muzzle loading firearms, their barrel design, and projectile systems (i.e., charge and projectile) which overcome the aforementioned, and other, deficiencies associated with the related art.
- To overcome the above deficiencies, the present invention provides a muzzle loading firearm which fires a projectile having a first caliber, and which has a barrel bore shaped to accommodate the first caliber. The breech end of the firearm has a chamber which is shaped to accept a standard blank metallic cartridge case of the same or a different caliber of the projectile. The blank cartridge contains a primer and powder, but lacks a projectile. The cartridge chamber and the muzzle bore are connected by a suitably shaped opening. Upon discharge of the firearm, the powder charge from the cartridge case causes the projectile to be expelled from the muzzle.
- In a first general aspect, the present invention provides a gun barrel for use in a muzzle loading firearm, said gun barrel comprising:
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- a muzzle portion, characterized by a first caliber, said muzzle portion being configured to operationally receive a projectile;
- a breech portion, characterized by a second caliber, said breech portion being configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
- a connecting bore extending from said breech portion to said muzzle portion.
- In a second general aspect, the present invention provides a firearm comprising:
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- a muzzle portion, characterized by a first caliber, said muzzle portion being configured to operationally receive a projectile;
- a breech portion, characterized by a second caliber, said breech portion being configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
- a connecting bore extending from said breech portion to said muzzle portion.
- In a third general aspect, the present invention provides a muzzle-end loading firearm comprising:
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- a breech end configured so that a charge is loaded from said breech end; and
- a muzzle end configured so that a projectile is loaded from said muzzle end.
- In a fourth general aspect, the present invention provides a substantially cylindrical gun barrel for use in a muzzle loading firearm, said gun barrel comprising:
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- a muzzle end, and a breech end;
- a central bore extending from said muzzle end towards said breech end, said central bore characterized by a first caliber;
- a mounting portion adjacent said breech end, said mounting portion configured for mounting said gun barrel to a firearm receiver;
- a chamber adjacent said breech end, said chamber coaxial with said central bore, said chamber configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
- a passage bore adjacent and between each of said central bore and said chamber, said passage bore communicating between said central bore and said chamber, said passage bore having a smaller diameter than said central bore.
- In a fifth general aspect, the present invention provides a method of increasing the reliability of a muzzle loading firearm, the method comprising:
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- providing a gun barrel with a muzzle end and a breech end, said muzzle end having a central bore characterized by a first caliber, said central bore extending from said muzzle end towards said breech end;
- providing a mounting portion of said gun barrel adjacent said breech end, said mounting portion configured for mounting said gun barrel to a firearm receiver;
- providing a breech end chamber of said gun barrel adjacent said breech end, said breech end chamber coaxial with said central bore, said breech end chamber configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
- providing a passage bore of said gun barrel adjacent and between each of said central bore and said breech end chamber, said passage bore communicating between said central bore and said breech end chamber, said passage bore having a smaller diameter than said central bore;
- providing a stock operatively coupled to said gun barrel and said firearm receiver, said stock including a trigger assembly operatively coupled to said firearm receiver and to a firing pin assembly; and
- configuring said firing pin assembly to operatively interact with said cartridge case, when appropriate, to cause discharge of said muzzle loading firearm.
- The sixth general aspect, the present invention provides a projectile system, adapted for use with a muzzle loading firearm, comprising:
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- a cartridge of a first caliber containing a charge, adapted for loading in a breech end of said firearm; and
- a projectile of a second caliber, adapted for inserting in a muzzle end of a gun barrel of said firearm.
- The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of embodiments of the invention. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary, but are not restrictive, of the invention.
- The features of the present invention will best be understood from a detailed description of the invention and an embodiment thereof selected for the purposes of illustration and shown in the accompanying drawings in which:
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FIG. 1A is a side sectional view of a first type of gun barrel of the related art; -
FIG. 1B is a side sectional view of a second type gun barrel of the related art; -
FIG. 2 is a sectional elevational view of cartridge case of the related art; -
FIG. 3A is a side sectional view of a first embodiment of a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 3B is a side sectional view of a second embodiment of a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 3C is a side sectional view of a third embodiment of a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 4A is a close-up side sectional view of a breech portion of the gun barrel shown inFIG. 3A , in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 4B is a close-up side sectional view of a breech portion of the gun barrel shown inFIG. 3B , in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 5A is a side sectional view of a first embodiment of a projectile system, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 5B is a side sectional view of a second embodiment of a projectile system, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 5C is a side sectional view of a third embodiment of a projectile system, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 6A is a side section view of a first embodiment of a gun barrel and projectile system, in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 6B is a side section view of a second embodiment of a gun barrel and projectile system, in accordance with the present invention; and -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a firearm with a gun barrel, in accordance with the present invention. - Although certain embodiments of the present invention will be shown and described in detail, it should be understood that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the present invention will in no way be limited to the number of constituting components, the materials thereof, the shapes thereof, the relative arrangement thereof, etc., and are disclosed simply as an example of an embodiment. The features and advantages of the present invention are illustrated in detail in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings.
- Referring to the drawings, and Figures IA and 1 B, in particular, which depict side sectional views of typical gun barrel with loading chambers known in the art. Both
FIGS. 1A and 1B depict agun barrel 100 with amuzzle end 104 and at the distal end, abreech end 103. Bothgun barrels 100 have abore 101. -
FIG. 1A shows thegun barrel 100 that might be used in a typical “modern” breech-end loading gun barrel design, such as for a 0.308 rifle. That is a projectile “system” (not shown), which includes a cartridge case having a powder charge and a projectile, is totally loaded from thebreech end 103 of thegun barrel 100 into achamber 102 that is configured to match the shape and size of the projectile system inserted therein. Upon the firing of a weapon (not shown) with thegun barrel 100 shown, the projectile (not shown) is ejected towards the target from themuzzle end 104. In the “traditional” embodiment, the caliber of thebore 101 is smaller than that of thechamber 102. That is the cartridge case, containing a charge therein, is of larger diameter than the diameter of the projectile. The caliber of the projectile typically matches that of thebore 101, while the caliber of the actual cartridge case matches that of thechamber 102. -
FIG. 1B , contrastingly, shows agun barrel 100 that is used in a typical “modem” in-line muzzle-loading firearm, such as a black powder rifle. Thegun barrel 100 has abore 101 that has at one end amuzzle end 104 at which both the powder and projectile is loaded. At the distal end of thebarrel 100 is abreech end 103 which includes a series ofthreads 106 which allows for the threaded insertion in thebreech end 103 of abreech plug 105. Thebreech plug 105 includes aprimer 107 opening from which the powder is activated. Upon the activation of the powder, the projectile is ejected towards the intended target. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , a brief description of a cartridge case of the related art is presented. Atypical cartridge case 200 may include the following elements:mouth 210,neck 220,shoulder 230,first element 240,flash hole 250,web 260,extractor groove 270,primer pocket 280,second element 290, andpowder charge 295. A bullet, or projectile, (not shown) may be seated inmouth 210. In operation, a primer (not shown) is seated in theprimer pocket 280. When the primer is forcefully struck by a firing pin of a firearm, the primer ignites and in turn causes thepowder charge 295 to controllably explode, thus forcing a bullet (not shown) from the muzzle of the firearm. Cartridge cases such ascartridge case 200 may be found in a variety of configurations, including straight-walled versions which lack the shoulder area. Cartridge cases may also be had in a variety of sizes depending on the size or designated caliber of their corresponding bullet. - The present invention improves upon the related art and offers distinct, and numerous, advantages beyond it. The present invention may be employed with virtually any firearm, such as rifle, smoothbore musket, pistol, revolver, shotgun, grenade launcher, or the like.
-
FIGS. 3A, 3B , and 3C, contrastingly, depict side sectional views of three different embodiments of a gun barrel of the present invention. While all the embodiments, when integrated with a firearm, may be termed the “McGivern Muzzle-Loading Firearm”, the embodiments depicted inFIGS. 3A and 3C may be further termed a modern breech design, while the embodiment depicted inFIG. 3B may be further termed a straight wall design. Regardless of nomenclature, the gun barrels, depicted by a 10, have common elements and common purpose, yet variations in meeting that purpose. - The gun barrels 10 all have a
muzzle end 15 at which the projectile (See e.g.FIGS. 5A-5C ) is both loaded into and from which the projectile ejects from upon the firing of a firearm that thegun barrel 10 is part thereof. Thegun barrel 10 include abore 16 of afirst diameter 30, or caliber. This bore 16 can be of any standard size caliber freely manufactured in the industry. For example, thebore 16 may be a 0.50 caliber, 0.45 caliber, 0.308 caliber, etc. Conversely, thebore 16 certainly can be of any customized, unique diameter. At the distal end of thegun barrel 10 is abreech end 11 having abreech chamber 12 of particular design and configuration. Thebreech chamber 12 has asecond diameter 31, or caliber. Thebreech chamber 12 also has breechwalls 13 which are adjacent to the cartridge upon its insertion intobreech chamber 12. Thebreech chamber 12, similarly, can be configured to match and receive the shape and diameter, of standard size caliber cartridge blanks currently manufactured in the industry. Also, as with thebore 16, thebreech chamber 12 can instead be of a unique, customized shape, configuration and caliber so as to match a custom charge that is placed therein. In either embodiment there is no requirement for an adaptor (not shown) or other additional elements to be located between the outside surface of a cartridge and thebreech walls 13. - As stated above, the present invention allows for the
muzzle end 15 loading of the projectile, while having the charge (e.g., powder within a cartridge casing) be loaded from abreech end 11 of thegun barrel 10. One way the invention achieves this capability is by configuring thebreech end 11 of thegun barrel 10 so that a standard caliber cartridge casing (not shown) with powder, yet no projectile (i.e., “blank” cartridge), may fit therein. In order to prevent the gun user from improperly inserting an entire “traditional” projectile system (i.e., projectile and charge together) in thebreech end 11, the present invention may configure thegun barrel 10 so that thefirst diameter 30 of thebore 16 is larger in diameter than thesecond diameter 31 of thebreech chamber 12. In this manner, if the gun user were to inadvertently, for example, to insert the traditional projectile system (i.e., projectile and charge together) into thebreech end 11 and into thebreech chamber 12 and then fire the firearm, the firearm would harmlessly discharge. This is because the burning powder gases would pass around the ejecting projectile in thegun barrel 10 due to the larger diameter of thebore 16 than the projectile. - If for example the gun user inserts a traditional 0.308 projectile (i.e., bullet and charge) into the
breech end 11 of agun barrel 10 of the present invention in which thebreech chamber 12 is configured to hold a 0.308 charge. That is the diameter of the projectile is approximately a 0.308 caliber diameter. If the user then were to fire the firearm, because thefirst diameter 30 is larger than thesecond diameter 31, although the charge would be activated, the projectile would leave themuzzle end 15 of thegun barrel 10 with little, or no, force and energy. This is because the burning powder gases initially behind and driving the projectile down thebore 16 would quickly pass around the projectile, because thefirst diameter 30 of thebore 16 is larger than the diameter of the projectile, rendering the projectile with no kinetic energy. This aspect of the invention, therefore, prevents the user from inadvertently attempting to use a traditional projectile system in thegun barrel 10 of the present invention. Thus, the firearm using an embodiment of thegun barrel 10 of the invention, has the added safety benefit of only having successful operation of the firearm by loading a blank charge in thebreech chamber 12, while in consort loading a projectile from themuzzle end 15. - The embodiment in
FIG. 3A includes aconnector opening 22 located at the forward end of thebreech chamber 12, before thebore 16. In this embodiment, thebreech chamber 12 has multiple diameters. Theconnector opening 22 has athird diameter 32. In this embodiment, theconnector opening 22 is a necked down portion of thegun barrel 10 wherein thethird diameter 32 is smaller thansecond diameter 31. Theconnector opening 22 portion includes acant 20 against which the shoulder portion of the cartridge rests against. Thecant 20 forms a frusto-conical shaped portion of thebreech chamber 12. This embodiment, for example, could be used with a blank cartridge of standard, shoulder design cartridge. Facing towards themuzzle end 15, adjacent theconnector opening 22 is astop 19. Thestop 19 provides a surface against which the projectile rests upon the projectile's insertion into thebore 16. Thestop 19, thus, allows the projectile to have some purchase against thegun barrel 10. - Similarly, the straight wall design depicted in
FIG. 3B , includes astop 19 against which the projectile rests upon the projectile's insertion into thebore 16. Thegun barrel 10 inFIG. 3B includes aconnector opening 22 between thebreech chamber 12 and bore 16 or at the forward end of thebreech chamber 12. Theconnector opening 22 has athird diameter 32. In this embodiment, thethird diameter 32 has a diameter equal to thesecond diameter 31. That is, thebreech chamber 12 in this embodiment is of uniform diameter. -
FIG. 3C depicts a third embodiment of agun barrel 10. While similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 3A , this embodiment further includesthreads 14 on the exterior surface of thebreech chamber 12 at thebreech end 11 of thegun barrel 10. Thethreads 14 provide one type of an attachment means for thegun barrel 10 to the rest of the firearm. Alternatively, theattachment threads 14 may be located on an interior surface of thebreech chamber 12. Note further, thesecond diameter 31 of thebreech chamber 12 in this embodiment is larger in caliber than thefirst diameter 30 of thebore 16. - It should be apparent to one of skill in the art, that other configurations of
bore 16,breech chamber 12, andconnector opening 22 are available. For example, a variation of the embodiment inFIG. 3A may alternatively have afirst diameter 30 that is equal to, or even greater than, thesecond diameter 31. Also, theconnector opening 22 could be configured so that thethird diameter 32 is the same caliber as thesecond diameter 31. Similarly, variations of the embodiment ofFIG. 3B could include agun barrel 10 in which thethird diameter 22 is smaller than thesecond diameter 31. Further, although not explicitly shown, any of the gun barrels 10 of the invention may further employ rifling on the interior surface of thegun barrel 10. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B show close-up sectional views of thebreech end 11 andbreech chamber 12 portion of thegun barrel 10 embodiments depicted inFIGS. 3A and 3B , respectively. Both embodiments includes a threadedportion 14 at thebreech end 11 of thebarrel 10. Achamber insert 17 has matchingthreads 14 thereby allowing the threading attachment of thechamber insert 17 with thegun barrel 10. The interior of thechamber insert 17 forms abreech chamber 12 withbreech walls 13. The inclusion ofthreads 14 on both the exterior surface of thechamber insert 17 and the interior surface of thegun barrel 10 allows for the facile replacement of thechamber insert 17. Thus, a gun user can readily change chamber inserts 17 for maintenance reasons and/or to changebreech chamber 12 configurations (e.g., shapes, diameter(s) 31, 32,connector openings 22, etc.). - Turning to a
projectile system 40 that is part of the present invention,FIGS. 5A, 5B , and 5C depict side sectional views of various embodiments. The variousprojectile systems 40 includes acharge 45 and a projectile 50. As discussed supra the projectile 50 is loaded into thegun barrel 10 via themuzzle end 15, while thecharge 45 is loaded into thebreech chamber 12 at thebreech end 11 of thegun barrel 10. - The
charge 45 includes acartridge case 41 in which isexplosive powder 42 of suitable composition.Powder 42 that may be employed include smokeless powder, black powder, Pyrodex® powder, pellets, black powder substitutes, or the like, or combinations thereof. Thepowder 42, upon its ignition by suitable means ultimately provides the explosive gases which project the projectile 50 out of thegun barrel 10. - For purposes of this invention, the
term projectile 50 includes a bullet 53 (or de facto projectile) and all appurtenances attached thereto when thebullet 53 are loaded into the muzzle-end 15 of thegun barrel 10. Attached to thebullet 53 is asabot 51. Thesabot 51 protects thebullet 52 while it exits thegun barrel 10 and typically falls away harmlessly once thebullet 52 does exit. Thesabot 51, typically made of a suitable, self-lubricating material, such as plastic, helps to make the loading of thebullet 53 into thegun barrel 10 easier. The configuration of thesabot 51 is such that it mates snugly with thebullet 52 and mates suitably with both asabot mate 43 that is part of thecharge 45 and adjoins thestop 19 that is between thebreech chamber 12 and bore 16 (See e.g.,FIGS. 3A and 3B ). Thesabot 51, thus, may have astop mate surface 52 which is configured to allow thesabot 51 to fit tightly against thestop 19 upon the loading of the projectile 50 into thegun barrel 10. As depicted inFIGS. 5A-5C , there are numerous configurations for theprojectile system 40, including thebullet 53,sabot 51, andsabot mate 43. - For example,
FIG. 5A shows asabot mate 43 that is convex in curvature, while the matchingsabot 51 is concave in shape. The motion arrow, depicted by a “T”, shows the movement and mating positioning of both thecharge 45 and projectile 50 upon the loading of both into thegun barrel 10 from either end. Similarly,FIG. 5B shows a different configuration ofsabot mate 43 andsabot 51. This embodiment thesabot 51 includes a male extension, while thesabot mate 42 has a matching female receiving opening. Thesabot mate 42 could be a receiving wad. The embodiment shown inFIG. 5B could be used with a shot shell or straight-walled cartridge case. Likewise,FIG. 5C has acartridge case 41 with a leading extension that includes a receivingwad 44 that fits within, and matches, the female opening on thesabot 51. - It should be further apparent to one skilled in the art, that various calibers of
breech chamber 12 and bore 16 may be employed. Matching this, various caliber ofcartridge case 41 and projectile 50 can likewise be used. For example,standard diameters breech chamber 12 and bore 16, respectively. For example, thesecond diameter 31 may be a 0.45 caliber, while thebore 16 has a 0.50 caliberfirst diameter 30. In this manner, standard caliber charges 45 may be used with the present invention, as canstandard caliber bullets 53. The term “standard” means, calibers ofcharge 45 andbullet 53 that are typically available to the gun using public. Conversely, the present invention may utilize customize caliber and configuration, as well. -
FIG. 6A depicts a side sectional view of one embodiment of both agun barrel 10 and theprojectile system 40 in use within thegun barrel 10. In the embodiment shown, thecharge 45 may be, for example, in a 0.45 caliberblank cartridge case 41. Thebore 16 inFIG. 6 is a 0.50 caliber bore. Thebullet 53 has been loaded from themuzzle end 15 of thebarrel 10 to where thebullet 53 rests against thestop 19 of thechamber insert 17. Thechamber insert 17 is configured to receive thecartridge case 41 which includes thepowder 42 and anelement 44. Theelement 44 may be a powder and compression plug 44 or apowder container plug 44. In the embodiment shown, the caliber of thechamber 12 is smaller than the caliber of thebore 16. Note also, that in the embodiment depicted inFIG. 6 no sabot is used. Additionally, the exterior surface of thecartridge case 41 rests against, or is adjacent to, thechamber insert 17. Thus, thecartridge case 41 is adjacent to the chamber. -
FIG. 6B depicts a side sectional view of a second embodiment of both agun barrel 10 and theprojectile system 40 in use within thegun barrel 10. In the embodiment shown, thegun barrel 10 has nostops 19 on which thebullet 53 partially rests. Thebullet 53, in this embodiment, with ssabot 51, has been loaded from themuzzle end 15 of thebarrel 10 to where thebullet 53 andsabot 51 rest against, and mates with, anelement 44 of acartridge case 41. Thecartridge case 41 which includes thepowder 42 and anelement 44. Theelement 44 may be a powder and compression plug 44 or apowder container plug 44. In the embodiment shown, the caliber of thechamber 12 is equal to the caliber of thebore 16. Additionally, the exterior surface of thecartridge case 41 rests on, or adjacent to, thechamber 12. Thus, thecartridge case 41 is adjacent to thechamber 12. -
FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of anentire firearm 1 employing thegun barrel 10 of the present invention. Several pieces of thefirearm 1 are standard to the art including astock 6,trigger assembly 2,sights 5,hammer 3, and the like. Thegun barrel 10 is attached to the rest of thefirearm 1, in this embodiment at ahinge 7, thereby allowing the user to open, via thehinge 7, and access thebreech end 11 for loading of the charge 45 (see e.g.,FIGS. 5A, 5B , and 5C) into thebreech chamber 12. Upon closing of thegun barrel 10, denoted by motion arrow “M”, the user then may load a projectile 50 in themuzzle end 15 of thegun barrel 10. Upon the adequate mating of the projectile 50 against the charge 45 (see e.g.,FIG. 6 ), and proper aiming, safety checks, etc., the user can then activate thefirearm 1 via pulling thetrigger assembly 2. - The foregoing description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed or to the materials in which the form may be embodied, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. Such modifications and variations that may be apparent to a person skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined by the accompanying claims.
Claims (38)
1. A gun barrel for use in a muzzle loading firearm, said gun barrel comprising:
a muzzle portion, characterized by a first caliber, said muzzle portion being configured to operationally receive a projectile;
a breech portion, characterized by a second caliber, said breech portion being configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
a connecting bore extending from said breech portion to said muzzle portion.
2. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said first caliber is greater than said second caliber.
3. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said second caliber is greater than or equal to said first caliber.
4. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of said connecting bore is smaller than said second caliber.
5. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said breech portion includes a frusto-conical section.
6. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said breech portion has a uniform diameter.
7. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said breech portion is configured to operationally receive a cartridge case in a standard caliber.
8. The gun barrel of claim 1 , further comprising a firearm operationally attached to said gun barrel.
9. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said connecting bore has a uniform diameter.
10. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said breech portion is configured to operationally received a cartridge case in a custom caliber.
11. The gun barrel of claim 1 , wherein said breech portion is configured to be adjacent to said cartridge case.
12. A firearm comprising:
a muzzle portion, characterized by a first caliber, said muzzle portion being configured to operationally receive a projectile;
a breech portion, characterized by a second caliber, said breech portion being configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
a connecting bore extending from said breech portion to said muzzle portion.
13. A muzzle-end loading firearm comprising:
a breech end configured so that a charge is loaded from said breech end; and
a muzzle end configured so that a projectile is loaded from said muzzle end.
14. The muzzle-end loading firearm of claim 13 , wherein said breech end is adapted to not require a breech plug.
15. A substantially cylindrical gun barrel for use in a muzzle loading firearm, said gun barrel comprising:
a muzzle end, and a breech end;
a central bore extending from said muzzle end towards said breech end, said central bore characterized by a first caliber;
a mounting portion adjacent said breech end, said mounting portion configured for mounting said gun barrel to a firearm receiver;
a chamber adjacent said breech end, said chamber coaxial with said central bore, said chamber configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
a passage bore adjacent and between each of said central bore and said chamber, said passage bore communicating between said central bore and said chamber, said passage bore having a smaller diameter than said central bore.
16. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said central bore extends from said muzzle end to said muzzle end of said passage.
17. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said mounting portion comprises screw threads, said screw threads located on an outer surface of said gun barrel.
18. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said mounting portion comprises screw threads, said screw threads located on an inner surface of said gun barrel.
19. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said chamber is configured to operationally receive a cartridge case.
20. The gun barrel of claim 19 , wherein said cartridge case is in a standard caliber.
21. The gun barrel of claim 19 , wherein said cartridge case is in a custom caliber.
22. The gun barrel of claim 19 , wherein said cartridge case is constructed of one of a metal, a plastic, and combinations thereof.
23. The gun barrel of claim 20 , wherein said cartridge case is in a standard centerfire caliber.
24. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said central bore includes rifling upon a portion of an inner surface thereof.
25. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said muzzle end includes a muzzle brake therein.
26. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said muzzle brake is removably attached to said gun barrel.
27. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said cartridge case contains a powder selected from the group consisting of a smokeless powder, a black powder, a Pyrodex powder, and combinations thereof.
28. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said cartridge case is characterized by a shotgun caliber.
29. The gun barrel of claim 15 , wherein said cartridge case contains a primer.
30. A method of increasing the reliability of a muzzle loading firearm, the method comprising:
providing a gun barrel with a muzzle end and a breech end, said muzzle end having a central bore characterized by a first caliber, said central bore extending from said muzzle end towards said breech end;
providing a mounting portion of said gun barrel adjacent said breech end, said mounting portion configured for mounting said gun barrel to a firearm receiver;
providing a breech end chamber of said gun barrel adjacent said breech end, said breech end chamber coaxial with said central bore, said breech end chamber configured to operationally receive a cartridge case; and
providing a passage bore of said gun barrel adjacent and between each of said central bore and said breech end chamber, said passage bore communicating between said central bore and said breech end chamber, said passage bore having a smaller diameter than said central bore;
providing a stock operatively coupled to said gun barrel and said firearm receiver, said stock including a trigger assembly operatively coupled to said firearm receiver and to a firing pin assembly; and
configuring said firing pin assembly to operatively interact with said cartridge case, when appropriate, to cause discharge of said muzzle loading firearm.
31. The method according to claim 30 , wherein said mounting bore includes a threaded portion.
32. A projectile system, adapted for use with a muzzle loading firearm, comprising:
a cartridge of a first caliber containing a charge, adapted for loading in a breech end of said firearm; and
a projectile of a second caliber, adapted for inserting in a muzzle end of a gun barrel of said firearm.
33. The projectile system of claim 32 , wherein said cartridge comprises a standard caliber cartridge case.
34. The projectile system of claim 32 , wherein said projectile includes a sabot.
35. The projectile system of claim 32 , wherein a first portion of said cartridge adjoins a second portion of said projectile.
36. The projectile system of claim 32 , wherein said first caliber is smaller than said second caliber.
37. The projectile system of claim 32 , wherein said first caliber is equal to said second caliber.
38. The projectile system of claim 32 , wherein an exterior surface of said cartridge is adapted to be adjacent to a portion of said breech end.
Priority Applications (1)
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US10/755,257 US20050183318A1 (en) | 2004-01-12 | 2004-01-12 | Muzzle loading firearm, gun barrel design, projectile system and method of using thereof |
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US10/755,257 US20050183318A1 (en) | 2004-01-12 | 2004-01-12 | Muzzle loading firearm, gun barrel design, projectile system and method of using thereof |
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US10/755,257 Abandoned US20050183318A1 (en) | 2004-01-12 | 2004-01-12 | Muzzle loading firearm, gun barrel design, projectile system and method of using thereof |
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US9146086B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2015-09-29 | Vista Outdoor Operations Llc | Muzzleloader bullet system |
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US11668549B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2023-06-06 | Federal Cartridge Company | Muzzleloader systems |
US9562754B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2017-02-07 | Vista Outdoor Operations Llc | Muzzleloader systems |
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US10030956B2 (en) | 2012-09-28 | 2018-07-24 | Vista Outdoor Operations Llc | Muzzleloader systems |
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US20190226818A1 (en) * | 2018-01-21 | 2019-07-25 | Vista Outdoor Operations Llc | Muzzleloader systems |
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US12215955B2 (en) * | 2019-01-20 | 2025-02-04 | Federal Cartridge Company | Muzzleloader power cell with primer |
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US11340039B2 (en) | 2019-02-26 | 2022-05-24 | Esteban Gonzalez Posada | Cartridge breech plug for inline muzzle loading firearm |
US11346625B2 (en) | 2019-08-21 | 2022-05-31 | Ardesa, S.A. | Rifles and muzzle loading rifles receiving propellant charges in break open and bolt action configurations, and barrel extensions therefor |
US11846485B2 (en) | 2019-08-21 | 2023-12-19 | Ardesa, S.A. | Rifles and muzzle loading rifles receiving propellant charge with an extended primer cap in a bolt action configuration, and method of loading |
US11137224B2 (en) | 2019-08-21 | 2021-10-05 | Ardesa, S.A. | Rifles and muzzle loading rifles receiving propellant charges in break open and bolt action configurations, and barrel extensions therefor |
US12305950B2 (en) | 2019-08-21 | 2025-05-20 | Ardesa, S.A. | Rifles and muzzle loading rifles receiving propellant charge with an extended primer cap in a bolt action configuration, and method of loading |
US20230083139A1 (en) * | 2020-06-02 | 2023-03-16 | The United States of America as represented by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Dept. of Justice | Rounded projectiles for target disruption |
US11898830B2 (en) * | 2020-06-02 | 2024-02-13 | The United States of America as represented by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice | Rounded projectiles for target disruption |
US20220065578A1 (en) * | 2020-09-02 | 2022-03-03 | Henning Conle | Firearm with a cartridge |
US11920895B2 (en) | 2020-09-08 | 2024-03-05 | Ardesa, S.A. | Bolt action firearm having an extractor and a propellant charge case adapted for extraction, and method of extracting |
US20230384070A1 (en) * | 2022-05-31 | 2023-11-30 | Traditional Sporting Goods, Inc. d/b/a Traditions Performance Firearms | Firearm ammunition component and method of use |
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