The weight of a projectile, typically measured in grains, is a crucial factor in determining its performance. One grain is equivalent to 1/7000th of a pound. This measurement quantifies the mass of the bullet itself, excluding the cartridge case, propellant, and primer.
Projectile weight directly influences several ballistic characteristics. A heavier projectile, all other factors being equal, generally exhibits greater momentum and energy retention downrange, leading to potentially increased terminal performance and reduced wind drift. Historically, projectile weight has been a key consideration in ammunition design, balancing factors such as recoil, trajectory, and intended target effect. The selection of an appropriate projectile weight is paramount for achieving the desired outcome, whether for hunting, target shooting, or self-defense.