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Message no. 1
From: Paul Jonathan Adam <Paul@********.DEMON.CO.UK>
Subject: Re: Flechette (was knockback)
Date: Sun, 9 Apr 1995 23:19:22 GMT
> RL flechettes also curl up when they hit something hard (like a bone or
> dense muscle tissue), so they don't fly though the target -- that means
> increased damage :)

Sadly this is a myth based on the use of flechettes in artillery shells.
The explosive charge used to scatter the flechettes from a 'beehive'
round, and the shock of firing, tends to bend them so they hit sideways.
In repeated tests, a US Army ballistician found that rifle-fired flechettes
were almost ineffective at inflicting incapacitating wounds, although their
penetration was excellent.

--
When you have shot and killed a man, you have defined your attitude towards
him. You have offered a definite answer to a definite problem. For better or
for worse, you have acted decisively.
In fact, the next move is up to him.

Paul J. Adam paul@********.demon.co.uk

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