Special Sub-Topic: Artillery Science: The Sequel Click Here To Play: Artillery Science: The Sequel

What is the word for the cord that the gunner pulls to fire an artillery weapon?

Lanyard. The lanyard allows a gunner to be at a safe distance from the gun.

As a gun barrel becomes worn over time, its inner diameter increases. What will this cause the projectile to do?

It will have a lower than normal velocity.. In a worn gun, more expanding gas seeps past the projectile, making the acceleration less efficient.

What is the barrel of a mortar weapon normally called?

Tube. Mortars make a "fup" sound when they are launched.

What stabilizes smaller mortar rounds (e.g. 81mm rounds) while in flight?

Fins. In the movie "Saving Private Ryan", U.S. soldiers threw mortar rounds at the Germans because they were at such close range.

What is the major advantage that artillery projectiles have over missles?

Cheaper. The cheaper cost means that artillery rounds can be fired relentlessly for hours.

What is the mode of an artillery fuze that detonates when it senses that the ground is nearby?

Proximity. The Romulans once used a proximity fuze in the original "Star Trek" TV show.

Normally, an artillery gun is firing at a target that can be seen by an observer, but can't be seen from the gun position. What is this form of attack called?

Indirect Fire. The projectile arcs to its target.

What is the word used for the explosive material that is put inside the breech of an artillery gun?

Propellant. Propellant is precisely proportioned into bags, in order to produce a predictable muzzle velocity when the gun is fired.

Does the spin imparted on a artillery projectile cause it to curve in flight?

Yes. Typically a projectile curves to the right.

Are the artillery projectiles that get stuck in the gun barrel called "Stubborns"?

No. They are called "Stickers".