of
temperature on the pressure and velocity with axite is only half that with
cordite. That the maximum flame temperature of axite is considerably less
than that of cordite, and the erosive effect is therefore considerably
less. That the deposit left in the barrel after firing axite cartridges
reduces the friction between the bullet and the barrel. It is therefore
practicable to use axite cartridges giving higher velocities than can be
employed with cordite, as with such velocities the latter would nickel the
barrel by excessive friction. It is also claimed that the accuracy is
greatly increased. The following results have been obtained with this
same time, and under the same conditions:--

~Axite~ Cartridges with 200-grain bullets.
Velocity 2,726 F.S.
Pressure 20.95 tons.

~Axite~ Cartridges with 215-grain bullets.
Velocity 2,498 F.S.
Pressure 19.24 tons.

~Axite~ Service Cartridges.
Velocity 2,179 F.S.
Pressure 15.76 tons.

~Cordite~ Service Cartridges.
Velocity 2,010 F.S.
Pressure 15.67 tons.

Five rounds from the Service axite and Service cordite were placed in an
oven and heated to a temperature of 110 deg. F. for one hour, and were then
fired for pressure. The following results were obtained:--

~Axite.~ ~Cordite.~
Before heating 15.76 tons per sq. in. 15.67 tons per sq. in.
After " 16.73 " " 17.21 " "
_____ _____

Increase .97 = 6.1% 1.54 = 9.8%

Average Velocities--
Before heating 2,150 F.S. 2,030 F.S.
After " 2,180 " 2,090 "
_____ _____

Increase 30 F.S. = 1-1/2% 60.0 F.S. = 3%

In order to show the accuracy given by axite, seven rounds were fired from
a machine rest at a target fixed at 100 yards from a rifle. Six of the
seven shots could be covered by a penny piece, the other being just
outside. In order to ascertain the relative heat imparted to a rifle by
the explosion of axite and cordite, ten rounds each of axite and cordite
cartridges were fired from a .303 rifle, at intervals of ten seconds, the
temperature of the rifle barrel being taken before and after each series:--

THE RISE IN TEMPERATURE OF THE RIFLE BARREL

With axite was 71 deg. F.
With