MINIE BALL Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Minie ball" refers to a specific type of bullet that was widely used during the mid-19th century. It was named after its French inventor, Claude-Étienne Minié, and was primarily designed for use in rifles.
The Minie ball is characterized by its conical shape, which allowed for increased accuracy and range compared to previous round lead bullets. It was made of soft lead, generally with a hollow base and a hollow cavity in the nose, enabling it to expand upon firing. This expansion resulted in a better gas seal within the barrel, reducing the loss of energy and increasing muzzle velocity. The soft lead composition also ensured that the bullet deformed upon impact, causing severe damage to the target.
The Minie ball revolutionized warfare during the American Civil War and other conflicts of the period, as it greatly improved the efficacy of infantry rifles. With its increased range and accuracy, it transformed battles into deadlier and more efficient engagements. Moreover, the wounded soldiers suffered more grievous injuries due to the bullet’s tendency to shatter upon impact, leading to more amputations and increased mortality rates.
The widespread adoption of the Minie ball marked a significant advancement in firearms technology and had a profound impact on military strategy and tactics of the era. It played a crucial role in shaping the future of warfare, inspiring further development in bullet design and influencing subsequent advancements in firearm manufacturing.
Common Misspellings for MINIE BALL
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Etymology of MINIE BALL
The term "Minie ball" is derived from the name of its inventor, Claude-Étienne Minié, a French Army officer. He designed the bullet in the mid-19th century, specifically in 1847, as an improvement from the smoothbore musket ammunition used at the time. The Minie ball was a conical bullet with a hollow base, which expanded upon firing to engage the rifling of the weapon, resulting in improved accuracy and range.
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