Importance

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Abstract

A gas check member, for use in muzzle-loading firearms, frictionally attaches rearward of a sub-caliber bullet to maximize the efficiency of such firearms. The diameter of the gas check preferably exceeds that of the bore slightly to prevent scoring and deformation of the bullet during loading, to hold the projectile in place within the barrel and to prevent moisture from contacting the powder when in place. Upon firing, the gas check minimizes the escape of propellant gases around the projectile and imparts a large, uniformly distributed forward thrust to the bullet to maximize the ballistic qualities of the shot. The gas check preferably incorporates an unstable connection between inner and outer members of the gas check that fractures, at about the time the bullet exits the barrel, to facilitate quick and reliable detachment of the outer member from the bullet. The outer member may also be adapted, preferably by scoring or other weakening of selected regions of the outer member, to itself fracture into multiple pieces, further optimizing detachment or release of a substantial portion of the gas check from the bullet. A more consistent and complete detachment or release helps prevent interference of the gas check with the trajectory of the bullet upon exit from the barrel.

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First Claim