Abstract
This research note examines the short-lived phenomenon of using reversed rifle bullets as improvised armour-piercing projectiles. During the early years of the First World War, German soldiers would regularly reverse their rifle bullets and use them against Allied armour, with some success. However, as the war progressed, this phenomenon eventually ceased. This article examines contemporary armour trials conducted in the United Kingdom as well as first-hand combatant accounts to highlight the use of reversed bullets in 1915 and 1916 and describe their effects against armour plates. An overview of plate perforation mechanisms is provided to highlight how a reversed bullet would be able to penetrate an armoured target. The author concludes that reversed bullets would have been feasible armourpiercing projectiles—with similar or even superior armour penetration capability compared to conventionally oriented bullets—as long as the armour plate exhibited certain metallurgic characteristics to make the improvised projectiles’ penetration mode favourable.
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Issue: Vol. X No. 1
Published: 31 August, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52357/armax97325
Peer-reviewed?: Yes
Keywords: Germany, First World War, ballistics, armour penetration, improvised ammunition
Bibliographic Information
Patrick Senft, ‘The Peculiar Phenomenon of Reversed Bullets in the First World War’, Armax: The Journal of Contemporary Arms, Vol. X № 1 (2024), pp. 85–96, <https://doi.org/10.52357/armax97325>.
About the Author
Patrick Senft is an arms and munitions technical intelligence specialist and security analyst with a focus on current conflicts. His research encompasses the technology and use of cluster munitions, landmines, chemical weapons, and 3D-printed firearms, with his expertise extending to arms diversion, defence policy, and counterterrorism. Mr Senft serves as the Research Coordinator at Armament Research Services (ARES), has a background in Physics, and holds a master’s degree in Crisis and Security Management from Leiden University. Mr Senft is also an associate with the National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Association and a member of the German Atlantic Association.