In the context of ammunition, particularly bullets and cartridges, “grain” refers to a unit of weight. It is a measurement used to quantify the mass of the projectile, as well as the gunpowder propellant within the cartridge. One grain is equivalent to approximately 0.0648 grams or 1/7000th of a pound. For example, a common bullet weight might be 115 grains for a 9mm cartridge, or 180 grains for a .40 caliber cartridge. This measurement indicates the mass of the projectile itself before firing.
This weight designation is crucial for several reasons. The mass of the projectile is a primary factor in determining its ballistic performance, including its velocity, energy, trajectory, and terminal effects. A heavier projectile generally carries more energy downrange, potentially leading to greater impact and penetration. Understanding the weight of the projectile is also essential for selecting the appropriate ammunition for a given firearm and purpose, such as target shooting, hunting, or self-defense. Historically, the grain measurement traces back to ancient systems of weight based on grains of cereal, reflecting the long history of firearms development and standardization.