Flaubert's cartridge - what is it? Flaubert cartridge reinforced

Brief information about the ammunition

Flaubert's small-caliber cartridge, reviews of which from weapon lovers are overwhelmingly only positive, was invented back in 1845. Its original purpose was for training shooting. The French gunsmith who invented it (Louis Flaubert) gave this unique innovation his name. He patented his brainchild three years later (in 1849). Such ammunition is not suitable for long-range shooting because it does not have sufficient destructive power. Let's take a closer look at Flaubert's cartridge. What is this product? In what cases is it used? Its cartridge case is filled with a special detonating compound (most often, this role is played by Berthollet salt, or potassium chlorate). There is no powder charge in such cartridges.

The long evolution of Flaubert's cartridges

Many novice shooters do not know which revolver chambered for the Flaubert cartridge should they buy? This is due to the fact that over many decades this type of ammunition has been greatly modified. The first cartridges of this type, produced in the USA and Europe, had only one caliber - 9 mm. Weapons chambered for Flaubert were quite easy to find at that time. Subsequently, in 1888, these ammunition were modernized in America. It was then that they received their modern appearance. Today they are produced only in European countries. In this case, cartridges can have the following calibers: 4 mm and 5.6 mm. As a rule, their bullet is spherical, although specimens with a conical (conical) “filling” can also be found on sale.

Advantages and disadvantages

Flaubert's revolver looks like a military weapon, which gives it a solid appearance. It can be a good replacement for pneumatics if you need to learn how to shoot. The advantages of this type of weapon include independence from environmental conditions; the cartridges are not affected by humidity and temperature. They can remain in the gun, ready to fire. The weapon fires quietly and its low sound makes it great for indoor use.

Disadvantages: has problems with permission for storage and use. The bullets do not have sufficient penetration and stopping power due to their small caliber, initial speed, and lead shell. According to these indicators, they are inferior to traumatic ones, that is, they cannot be used for self-defense.

Guns and ammunition are more expensive than air guns. It needs regular cleaning of the barrel and mechanisms, just like a firearm. Owners of pneumatics do not face such problems.

Weapons chambered for Flaubert always have a revolving mechanism, even if it is a pistol due to the low power of the shot, which does not ensure the operation of the bolt device. Revolvers and pistols are excellent for learning shooting and weapon handling skills, both indoors and outdoors. They can be used by athletes and amateurs. Carrying it for self-defense is not only prohibited, but also ineffective.

Flaubert's patron in Russia

Most often in the Russian Federation there are cartridges of this type produced by the Czech company Sellier & Bellot or the German company Dynamit Nobel. These world-famous arms brands have long established themselves well in the CIS market. The Flaubert cartridge from these manufacturers has a caliber of 4.0 mm. It is equipped with a hemispherical bullet weighing 0.5 g. Despite the general similar parameters, they still have minor differences. Thus, the cartridges of the German company are distinguished by a primer made of thinner non-ferrous metal. On its bottom there is an imprint in the form of an acorn. The products of the Czech company have sleeves made of steel. They are a little shorter than the German ones. Despite this, the power of both cartridges is the same. The speed of the bullet when leaving the muzzle is about 200 m/s. In terms of muzzle energy, this is only about 10 J.

Price issue

Despite the fact that the ammunition in question is not considered a firearm as such, the Flaubert cartridge, the price of which is about 20 rubles per piece, is not legally sold in Russia. Certification and their distribution on the territory of our country are legally hampered by the lack of an appropriate legislative framework. But almost anyone can purchase the mentioned units in several specialized online stores. These shells are sold in boxes of 100 or 200 pieces.

Interchangeability of Flaubert cartridges

Ammunition from German and Czech manufacturers is interchangeable. There are only a few exceptions to this rule. Thus, German copies are not suitable for the Czech-made Kora Brno revolver. It only requires the appropriate Flaubert cartridge. What does it mean? Some weapons are designed only to fire “native” ammunition. Thus, Kora Brno is “sharpened” only for Czech cartridges. The same can be said about the German ME revolver: only domestic products can be used for it.

Bullet speed when firing Flaubert cartridges

Although, according to Russian law, Flaubert cartridges cannot be sold freely, they remain one of the lowest-power ammunition. When leaving the barrel of a revolver, the bullet has an initial speed that rarely exceeds 200 m/s. In terms of its power, it can be equated to the ammunition of medium air rifles. The only significant argument against their free sale is that the mass of the said bullet significantly exceeds a pneumatic projectile. Because of this, it can reach an energy of 60 J, which in itself, if handled incorrectly or carelessly, can lead to significant injuries.

Sale of weapons chambered for Flaubert in Ukraine

Today, the sale of Flaubert cartridges and weapons for them is permitted in this country. Those with a caliber of 4 mm are especially in demand. This popularity is due to the absence of the need to obtain special permission to carry and use it. The simplicity of the design also attracts buyers. Among other things, both weapons and ammunition have a price that is much lower than other products of this kind. Its main advantages also include safe use for the owner, ease of operation and easy learning to shoot.

Cartridge 4 mm Flobert / 5.6 mm Flobert / 6 mm Flobert / .22 BB Cap

4 mm Flobert (Short - left, Long - right)
In 1842, the French gunsmith Flaubert created a small-caliber cartridge, which used a primer (explosive) composition pressed into the rim of the bottom of a solid-drawn copper (brass) sleeve as a propellant charge.

According to the method of ignition, the Flaubert cartridge was a rimfire or side-fire cartridge, since to fire a shot the trigger of the weapon hit the rim of the cartridge case on the side of the chamber. At the same time, the explosive composition exploded and, under gas pressure, ejected a round bullet fixed in the muzzle of the cartridge into the barrel bore. (At one time, all rimfire ammunition was called "Flaubert cartridges.")

Initially, Flaubert's cartridges did not have a powder charge. In the fold forming the flange of the cartridge case, there was only a flammable composition. The first cartridges had a lead spherical bullet. Then, first American, then European companies, began to add a small charge of gunpowder to the cartridge case and use a conical bullet.

4mm Long Flobert
Flobert cartridges were made in three calibers: 4, 6 and 9 mm. The first two were used for indoor (so-called salon) training target shooting. With a 9 mm caliber cartridge it was possible to train in the field and even hunt small game. For smooth-bore weapons, in addition to cartridges with bullets, elongated cartridges with shot were also produced.

The 4 mm Flobert cartridge with cylindrical sleeves has two varieties: short (4mm kurz, 4mm Short) and long (4mm lang, 4mm Long). The first has a maximum sleeve length of 6.6 mm, the second - 8.5 mm. Otherwise, the cartridges are identical: the maximum diameters of the flange and body are 6.10 mm and 4.65 mm, respectively, a bullet with a diameter of 4.30 mm has a muzzle energy of 30 J.

The 5.6 mm Flobert cartridge is known in two versions: bullet and shot.
In the bullet version, the sleeve has a length of 6.8 mm, a flange with a diameter of 7.06 mm and a body with a diameter of 5.74 mm. A bullet with a diameter of 5.71 mm develops a muzzle energy of 70 J. 5.6 mm Flobert (shot version)
Shot version, loaded with small shot, and is intended for use mainly for self-defense in short-barreled weapons. The cartridge case of this cartridge is four times longer than the usual one, 1/4 of the length has a slope, and 3/4 of it is like a barrel in which a shot charge is placed. The length of the sleeve (and cartridge) is 22.3 mm, the diameter of the flange and body is 7.06 mm and 5.74 mm, respectively, the muzzle energy is 100 J.

The .22 BB Cap cartridge (.22 Bullet Breech Cap is a 22-caliber breech-loading cartridge) according to European standards has a cylindrical sleeve 6.86 mm long with flange and body diameters of 7.06 mm and 5.72 mm, respectively (i.e. this is practically a shortened .22 LR cartridge case). The .22 BB Cap bullet develops a muzzle energy of 70 J.

.22 BB Cap, .22 Short, .22 LR (top to bottom)
Other data for this cartridge is given in the book “Cartridges of the World” by F. Barnes. The sleeve has a length of 7.21 mm, a rim diameter of 6.86 mm and a body diameter of 5.69 mm. A bullet weighing 1.3 g develops a muzzle velocity of 238 m/s with an initial energy of 35 J. The excess of the trajectory above the line of sight when shooting at 91 m (100 yards) is 30.5 cm.

The 6 mm Flobert cartridge is similar to the .22 BB Cap and has a cylindrical case with a length of 7.90 mm, a flange diameter of 7.40 mm and a body diameter of 5.92 mm. The 6 mm Flobert cartridge bullet with a diameter of 5.87 mm also develops a muzzle energy of 70 J.

Before World War II, the 6 mm Flobert cartridge was produced by many European and American companies, but in the post-war period interest in the cartridge faded. The production of these cartridges was established only by the RWS concern - with a round bullet (6mm BB Cup Roundkugeln), with a conical bullet (6mm BB Cup Spitzkugeln) and blank (6mm BB Cup Blank), and SK-Munition - blank (6mm BB Cup Blank).

In addition to cartridges, Flaubert also designed weapons for them - breech-loading smooth-bore and rifled guns and pistols.
6 mm Flobert
Cartridges, as well as weapons of the Flobert system, have become very widespread in the world due to their reliability, low cost, weak shot sound, etc. In Russia they were known under the name “Monte Cristo”. Outside the shooting range, they could only be used for shooting at small rodents at a distance of up to 15-20 m.

The active demand for Flaubert cartridges (and, accordingly, weapons for them) in Western Europe and the USA was facilitated by both the cheapness of the shot and the fact that, according to the legislation of most countries, they do not belong to firearms, and, therefore, are on free sale.

Models of weapons chambered for Flaubert

There are several different models of revolvers on the market today. They are distinguished by a simple and reliable design. At the same time, they are free from a number of disadvantages that reduce their technical characteristics. The vast majority of models of such weapons are made from the latest zinc alloys. They do not have steel parts in the most critical places. Almost all modern specimens have a significant gap between the barrel and the drum with bored chambers. When choosing a suitable model for yourself, you should remember that for unsheathed lead projectiles, rifled barrels are chosen, which are distinguished by the so-called “progressive pitch”. It gradually decreases to a minimum. On sale you can find both signal weapons with a special configuration that allows you to fire Flaubert cartridges, as well as pistols and revolvers intended only for this purpose. For example, such modernized signal models as the 9-mm semi-automatic GAS ALARM and the Walter R-38 can well be used under the Flaubert cartridge. Many craftsmen try to modify weapons on their own, but such a “modification” can lead to quite serious consequences. That is why people who know a lot about weapons recommend purchasing manufactured products characterized by very good technical characteristics and a high level of safety. The following revolvers can be distinguished from specialized weapons:

• ALFA model 431, 440 or 461.
• Ekol Major Berg.
• "Safari".
• "Arminius."
• "Alpha".
• ME 38 Pocket-4R.
• Kora Brno.
• "Schmeisser".
• Taurus 4.
• PROFI.
• "Magnum".
• Ekol Arda.
• Snipe.
• "Kimar."
• Stalker.
• "Kesera".

All of these models are highly reliable and have an excellent appearance. They are made of modern high-strength materials. There are various modifications on sale that differ in color, material, handle shape, and so on. That is why even the most demanding gun lover can choose the right product for him. A pistol such as SEM PMF-1 is also in great demand for firing Flaubert cartridges.

KITS FOR MODERNIZING SIGNAL WEAPONS FOR THE 4 mm FLOBERT CARTRIDGE

The kit is intended for the modernization of signal weapons in order to create products for training shooting with a 4 mm Flaubert cartridge outside specially equipped rooms and areas (shooting ranges and shooting ranges). Due to the fact that several options for upgrading weapons are possible, the manufacturer does not assume a strictly fixed composition of the kit. The consumer will be given the opportunity to independently decide on the choice of upgrade option and create a kit of his choice.

MODERNIZATION OF SIGNAL WEAPONS

When modernizing signal weapons, the main problem is the creation of a channel in the barrel of the weapon with a diameter of at least 6.5 - 7 mm. Manufacturers of signal weapons choose various methods to complicate this work, and, ideally, make it impossible to complete it. The main methods of “protecting” signal weapons from unauthorized modifications include the following:

• If the barrel is made of steel (mostly such weapons are produced on the basis of gas or traumatic), then the barrel bore is simply under-drilled (the existing drilling is usually more than 5.5 mm), and on the outer surface, in one way or another, slots are made that do not allow increasing the caliber to caliber of military weapons (7.62 or 9 mm). This is the simplest case. The channel in the barrel is made by simply drilling existing holes. An example of such products is Ukrainian-made weapons that are not sold in their main versions. Such products are generally not allowed on the world market (European countries).
• If the barrel is made of zinc alloy, then at the manufacturing stage a steel rod is placed in the mold, which, after pouring the alloy, ends up inside the barrel. The case is quite complex, since manufacturers can use various options for this protection, as well as their combinations: - the use of an insert made of hardened steel - inserts with conical ends, making it impossible (or very difficult) to center the drill - misaligned position of the insert - causes the drill to move when trying drilling A classic example of a signal weapon with this type of protection is the Italian-made WALTER R-38 (presented in the previous section as model No. 3). Making a through channel is only possible with the help of a conductor system and the use of tubular diamond drills or electrical erosion machining. Persons without adequate experience are not recommended to even try.
• There are models of signal weapons that provide for their use in the mode of launching pyrotechnic devices. These models already have a through bore, which in signal firing mode is suppressed by a special threaded insert. The insert is removed quite simply (unscrewed through the breech with a long screwdriver or hexagon), however, the diameter of the channel is usually less than required and must be increased in one way or another. One of the manufacturers of just such weapons is Turkish, which is represented quite widely on the Ukrainian arms market. This type of weapon is most suitable for modernization and all the products described below will be focused specifically on weapons.

Modernization of weight and size models of short-barreled collection weapons may be of some interest, however, a description of such designs is beyond the scope of this publication. In addition, when working with such objects, a lot of legal and technical problems arise for which there are no solutions yet.

The next important factor for the convenience of subsequent operation is the design of the weapon's bolt. For a consumer holding a weapon when shooting in the right hand, the open bolt shape should be considered the most convenient. There are two models in the “BLOW” range with this type of shutter. These are “F92” and “CLASS” (in the previous section presented as models No. 1 and No. 2) the modernization of which is mainly oriented to the proposed kits. Fans of other weapon models from this company can upgrade them without any problems, but comfortable reloading of the weapon will be somewhat difficult. For a left-hander, the design of the shutter is not particularly important.

Another remarkable design element of this company’s products is the presence of an internal M10 thread on the muzzle side of the barrel (the weapon manufacturer suggests installing a cassette in it to accommodate a signaling pyrotechnic device launched using a blank cartridge - information from the operating instructions attached to the product). Its presence allows you to install additional devices on weapons. In particular, this could be an aerodynamic compensator (ADC) to change the spectral composition of the sound of a shot.

DESCRIPTION OF ELEMENTS OF THE KIT FOR MODERNIZATION OF SIGNAL WEAPONS Model F92 “BLOW”

First of all, it should be noted that modernization is possible both in a version with irreversible design changes (the liner is glued using epoxy adhesive) and in a reversible version (the liner is freely inserted from the breech side and fixed with a centering threaded sleeve from the muzzle side).

LINER

The design of the liner is shown in the figure.

The liner is a thin-walled tube with a flange with a diameter of 9.5 mm on the breech side (for centering the liner in the chamber of the weapon) and a calibrated surface on the muzzle side with a diameter of 6.3 (6.5 for 4.45 mm caliber) (for centering on the muzzle side cut when installed in the bore of a weapon). To prevent the weapon reflector from interfering with the installation of the liner, the flange has a special “flat”. The liner length is L= 110 mm, the average caliber is 4.15 (4.45) mm, the outer diameter is 6.4-6.8 mm, the channel has a smooth muzzle narrowing (cylinder with pressure). The delivery set includes a centering sleeve with an internal diameter of 6.3 (6.5) mm and an external installation diameter of 8.6 mm (equal to the internal diameter of the M 10 thread in the weapon barrel from the muzzle end).

Liner installation

We can recommend the following procedure for performing work on installing the liner into a weapon:

• Remove the bolt and unscrew the screw plug from the barrel of the weapon. The operation is performed from the breech side using a 5 mm diameter rod sharpened for a screwdriver (some weapons may have a plug with an internal hexagon). The standard bore has a main diameter of 5.5 mm and a conical extension on the breech side of up to 6 mm.
• It is recommended to drill out the canal in several stages, starting with a diameter of 6 mm. The operation can be performed with an electric drill with a speed controller. It is recommended to use the minimum possible speed to avoid biting the drill. The operation is considered completed when the liner enters the formed channel freely and all the way. If biting or chafing is observed when installing the liner, it is necessary to increase the diameter of the channel.
• Gluing the liner is possible in two options: 1st option
  If the consumer managed to create a channel with a minimum gap, gluing the liner can be done in one operation.
  To do this, it is necessary: ​​- degrease the surfaces of the liner and the barrel bore - apply a thin layer of lubricant to the surface of the M10 thread from the muzzle end of the barrel (if the consumer intends to use it further for installing an ADC - insert a protective plug into the liner channel from the front part (can be made made of wood and have an outer diameter smaller than the diameter of the liner - apply a thin layer of grease to the inner and outer surfaces of the centering sleeve - apply a thin layer of epoxy adhesive to the back half of the outer surface of the liner - apply a thin layer of epoxy adhesive to the front half of the inner surface of the bore (you can use a thin screwdriver or rod) - smoothly insert the liner into the bore from the breech side, install the bolt of the weapon and insert the cartridge into the chamber (it is also advisable to lubricate the cartridge with a thin layer of oil) - from the muzzle side of the barrel, use a thin screwdriver to remove the epoxy adhesive squeezed out when advancing the liner and put it on the protruding the end of the barrel, the centering sleeve from the kit (it is advisable to remove the protruding epoxy adhesive as the liner moves so that excess does not fall on the M10 thread) - after the epoxy adhesive has hardened, remove the centering sleeve, the protective plug of the barrel and fragments of epoxy adhesive from the turns of the M10 thread 2nd option
  If the consumer does not It was possible to create a channel with a minimum gap (distortion during drilling, which necessitated the need to increase the diameter of the channel for free installation of the liner, lack of a drill of a suitable diameter, etc.), then using the first option is not recommended due to the fact that dosing the amount of epoxy adhesive for normal filling gap is very difficult. There will be either little embedded (which will cause voids) or a lot (which will cause a large amount to be pushed out into the front and problems with removal). In this case, the second option is recommended, which is carried out in several stages: - in the side surface of the weapon barrel, it is necessary to drill several holes (3-4) with a diameter of approximately 3.5 mm and evenly spaced along its length. Drilling is done from the bottom as far as the body of the weapon allows. With the bolt installed, these holes will not be visible - degrease the surfaces of the liner and bore - apply a layer of epoxy adhesive to the back of the liner surface (approximately 1-1.5 cm from the flange - insert the liner into the bore, install the bolt and insert a cartridge or cartridge into the chamber - install a centering sleeve on the front part of the liner and, placing the weapon in a vertical position, allow the epoxy adhesive to harden - upon completion of the polymerization process, through the previously drilled holes, fill the gap between the barrel and the liner using a syringe (a regular disposable syringe of minimum diameter). Filling is carried out sequentially from the breech of the weapon, controlling the movement of the adhesive through the holes. The operation can be divided into several stages according to the number of holes. At the final stage, the centering sleeve is removed and filling is done to the required level. During polymerization, it is advisable to leave the weapon in a vertical position (barrel up)

As an epoxy adhesive, the manufacturer recommends using a 20-minute epoxy adhesive for gluing metals “IT CAN’T BE STRONGER” produced by DONE DEAL.
It is possible to manufacture a removable liner (similar to a kit for upgrading traumatic weapons). The advantage of this modernization option is the ability to store and transport weapons in the factory version (signal weapons) and convert them to a new quality immediately before firing. In addition, in this case, cleaning the liner is somewhat simplified and the weapon receives some additional possibilities for use.

FLOBERT CARTRIDGES

Further modernization of weapons can go in two directions: - with the preservation of the central combat system - with the transition to a side-ignition system. Both options have both advantages and disadvantages, which will be described in detail below.

Modernization of signal weapons while maintaining the central combat system

This modernization option does not provide for modification of the weapon's bolt. To fire the Flaubert cartridge, the first type of cartridge is used.

1 — weapon striker, 2 — weapon bolt, 3 — PF cartridge, 4 — standard Flaubert cartridge of 4 mm caliber, 5 — barrel liner (liner), 6 — weapon barrel.

Type 1 PF cartridge

- has the overall dimensions of a standard 9 mm signal cartridge and consists of three parts: 1. The front part, which houses the standard Flaubert cartridge 2. The rear part, which houses the firing pin (captive) 3. The firing pin, which transfers the central blow of the standard firing pin of the weapon in the side The front and rear parts of the cartridge are connected by a thread. The delivery set includes a device for removing used cartridges from the cartridge.

The advantages of the first modernization option include the following: - the bolt is not modified, which allows, if necessary, to use standard 9 mm signal cartridges - the Flaubert cartridge is freely inserted into the front part of the cartridge and cannot change its position being fixed by its rear part - high accuracy and alignment cartridge parts ensure reliable ignition of the cartridge, given the much lower impact force compared to the trigger of revolvers

The disadvantage of this option can be considered: - the relatively complex design of the cartridge - the ability to fix the cartridge firing pin in the forward position after the shot (the dimensions of the device do not allow placing a rebound spring inside the body). This effect can cause some difficulties when unscrewing the front part after firing, but the problem is easily solved by applying a light blow with a pointed rod with a diameter of 4 mm through the exit hole along the bottom of the cartridge (the bottom is easily deformed and pushes the firing pin to its original position). After which the cartridge can be disassembled completely freely.

Modernization of signal weapons with the transition to a side-ignition system

Converting weapons to a side-ignition system allows the use of simpler cartridge designs (type two). To do this, it is necessary to modify the shutter and replace the firing pin

1 — weapon firing pin, 2 — weapon bolt, 3 — standard Flaubert cartridge of 4 mm caliber, 4 — PF cartridge (second type), 5 — barrel liner (liner), 6 — weapon barrel, 7 — hammer spring, 8 — support washer .

Modification of the bolt is reduced to drilling out the through channel of the striker to a diameter of 5.1 mm and partially expanding it to a diameter of 6 mm (making a ledge for the support of the washer - 8). A special feature of the striker design is the presence of two protrusions that strike the Flaubert cartridge. The need for this is explained by the fact that the low accuracy of manufacturing weapon parts, as well as the insufficient accuracy of modification of the bolt, can cause displacement of the axes of the firing pin and the Flaubert cartridge. As a result, unreliable operation of the trigger is possible. The presence of two protrusions significantly increases the reliability of the firing pin. It should also be noted some features of equipping the cartridge of the second type: - to prevent the cartridge from “unraveling”, installation of a Flaubert cartridge into it is carried out by pressing using a hand vice (preferably with pads) - during the pressing process, the cartridge is compressed both in the area of ​​fixation of the ball and in bottom area (the distance between the surfaces inside which the pyrochemical composition of the cartridge is located is reduced). As experimental studies have shown, these factors ultimately have a positive effect on both the reliability of operation and the power of the cartridge. The side-fire firing pin is supplied assembled and accompanied by installation instructions. The modification described above is not irreversible. A return to the central firing system is possible by installing a special figured bushing and a standard striker. The delivery set includes a device for removing used cartridges from the cartridge.

MODERNIZATION OF SIGNAL WEAPONS OF THE CLASS “BLOW” model

The modernization of this weapon model does not have any fundamental differences from the one described above, with the exception of: - the length of the liner is 82 mm - the design of the weapon does not allow for modernization with a transfer to a side-ignition system - the length of the standard firing pin does not ensure reliable operation of the trigger and it must be replaced with a longer one

MODERNIZATION OF OTHER MODELS OF SIGNAL WEAPONS

The modernization methods described above can be successfully applied to any models of 9 mm signal weapons, taking into account the features of their designs. If necessary, the geometric dimensions of the liner (length and diameter of the centering groove) can be changed downward. The dimensions of the centering sleeve can be adjusted accordingly.

ADDITIONAL WORK

Extractor

As an additional operation when upgrading a weapon, the manufacturer recommends inspecting the working surface of the extractor and, if necessary (presence of burrs or other defects), treating it (filing, grinding, polishing). The presence of gross defects in the manufacture of the extractor can lead to damage to the edge of the cartridge (given its repeated use).

Sighting device

Modernization practice has shown that when installing a liner in accordance with the method outlined above, a standard sighting device (non-adjustable) can be easily adjusted to the aiming line of a modernized weapon. Operations for adjusting the sighting device consist of reducing the height of the front sight or rear sight (adjustment in the vertical plane) and one-sided expansion of the rear sight slot (adjustment in the horizontal plane). If the point of impact is below the aiming line, it is necessary to reduce the height of the front sight. If higher, reduce the height of the rear sight. If the point of impact is to the right of the aiming point, it is necessary to widen the rear sight slot to the left and vice versa.

Shop

The F92 model magazine has a double-row arrangement of cartridges. With this design, each cartridge exerts pressure not only on the one above it (as in the single-row version), but also on the magazine wall. The more cartridges are installed in the magazine, the greater the force of the feeder spring and, consequently, the greater the friction force between the inner wall of the magazine and the surface of the cartridge (cartridge). When installing more than 10-12 rounds into a magazine, they may become distorted when fed into the barrel. In this regard, it is recommended to shorten the magazine spring somewhat if you intend to fill it completely. In addition, it is recommended to cut off the sharp protruding “ridge” in the middle of the feeder surface.

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT

Aerodynamic compensator (ADC)

The aerodynamic compensator is designed to change the spectral composition of the shot sound and reduce the factors of the negative impact of the gas jet on the projectile at the initial part of its trajectory. The design of the product is shown in the figure. Overall dimensions: diameter 22 mm, length 130 mm. Installation thread M 10.

The product can be delivered in two options: - the product is fully assembled in a device that ensures the alignment of the installation thread (M 10) and the ADK channel - the product is supplied with an uninstalled back cover The second delivery option is preferable if the consumer is not confident in the alignment of the liner channel and the installation thread in the muzzle of the weapon barrel. In this case, it is possible to adjust the position of the ADC axis: - the back cover is screwed all the way into the thread - an even rod of the appropriate diameter is inserted into the barrel - the joined surfaces are lubricated with epoxy adhesive - the ADC body is put on the back cover - the body is centered according to the position of the rod in the outlet hole of the ADC - weapon left in a vertical position until the epoxy adhesive hardens.

Signal cartridges

To implement the weapon functions provided by the manufacturer (giving a sound signal and launching signal flares), special signal cartridges (types 1 and 2) can be used with powder-free pyrotechnic products placed in them, available over the counter (Zhevelo capsule, Eurocapsule, etc.) .

Strengthening Flaubert's cartridge

As you know, one of the most important characteristics of any weapon is the firing range. The Flaubert cartridge was not originally intended for this, but over time, some manufacturers of the mentioned ammunition decided to please their customers. Without thinking twice, they made a small modernization of this projectile, equipping it with an additional (albeit insignificant) charge of gunpowder. Ammunition with improved characteristics is simply called: reinforced Flaubert cartridge. Thus, products of a Czech company under the Sigal trademark have recently appeared on the arms market. These powerful Flaubert cartridges have the following advantages:

• The manufacturer has strengthened the pyrotechnic charge, so its power has increased by about 20%.
• The new ammunition is almost universal. It is suitable for almost all types of weapons designed to fire such cartridges.

Their cost is not much higher than other types of similar shells. But we must remember that these units can be even more dangerous than ordinary ones. Some home-grown craftsmen manage to strengthen Flaubert's cartridges on their own. They try to add gunpowder to the cartridge case. But such experiments are very dangerous and are prohibited by law. The most “harmless” method of strengthening is to “nail” this ammunition. If you hit the bullet lightly when it is standing on a flat and hard surface, you can increase its speed to 220 m/s. But! This Flaubert cartridge (reinforced) can only be used for shooting from a pistol made of durable steel, and not of alloys.

We equip cartridges correctly for summer-autumn hunting

photo: Fotolia.com
Should you reload ammo when you can buy it?

Costs. Our industry, and especially foreign ones, produce a wide range of cartridges, from targeted cartridges with a weak charge of 24–28 g of shot for 12 gauge (hereinafter we will stick to this) to “magnum”.

Selecting the optimal load for any gun that would meet all the classic parameters: sharpness, uniformity of scree and accuracy of shot is a whole science. And you can’t always find an acceptable option for your gun in the retail chain.

Moreover, hunting conditions, physical condition and condition of the game change. Therefore, it is necessary to make appropriate adjustments. And here trade can let us down.

In early autumn, when the bird is not as resistant to injury (strong to the wound) as late autumn, you can, as they say, “drive through” with spring cartridges. A young bird, for example a mallard, can easily shoot with the seventh shot. Close-flying snipe and snipe, with good shooting, of course, are easy prey with the smallest shot numbers, up to the dunst.

The same picture is observed when hunting chickens by broods. But the foliage turned yellow and cold weather set in. The bird was covered with “strong” feathers, and a dense layer of fatty tissue formed under the skin.

Now, to ensure the destruction of game, both greater energy of pellets and a larger number of them are needed. Shooting should be done with larger shot. Please also take into account that the bird has become more “strict”: it rises ahead of time, at a greater distance; therefore, if the appropriate adjustments are not made, there is nothing to count on success.

Why not immediately load powerful cartridges?

Do you want to select “cutlets with feathers”? Let the game go. It’s good if everything happens on a plain with an open panorama, but what if in areas with limited visibility? For example, woodcock on the rash or “noise” hazel grouse?

When hunting in such an area, you must not only shoot well and quickly, but also use a special dispersive cartridge that produces a wide spread of shot.

Read the material “On gas pressure and initial velocity of projectiles”

So, it is possible to go as far as to provide individual equipment for each game, and amateurs do so - to the envy of those who thoughtlessly purchased cartridges that do not match the gun. That is why the saying “You are more faithful to your own” is justified.

Well, now about equipping cartridges for the autumn hunt. Let's start with the very last stage of work - labeling.

In addition to the shot number, printed or handwritten in black and a large number, the powder weight must be indicated on the left side of it, the shot weight on the right, and below it the year of manufacture and loading of the cartridge.

In the recording sector of the gunpowder sample, you can mark its grade. Now look at how many hunters carry cartridges in a bandolier: with the primers up and the markings down. Like, it's easier to take it out. This is all stupidity. It is incomprehensible to the mind how one could come up with such a thing!

But now the active season of game begins. The hunter is in a panic: where is which cartridge, with what shot number and with what charge is in the cartridge belt. The first ones available are taken. The game is fighting with the wrong number.

It’s good if the “miss” is like “buckshot on a snipe.”
And how many wounded wounded things happen! This is a serious violation of hunting rules. And the hunter himself robs himself, risking being left without game. PREPARATORY STAGE
The hunter must prepare in advance all the necessary equipment for loading cartridges and arrange it in such a way as to eliminate any loss of time searching for it.

Carefully and sequentially arrange the primers, gunpowder, wads, and shot according to the numbers. It’s good if you have a box-stand for cartridges. This is an extremely necessary thing, especially during operations involving filling gunpowder and shot.

Try to make sure that no one is at home while loading ammunition, or at least no one will distract you.
It is advisable to even turn off your phone. The usual norm for a novice hunter is 100 rounds of ammunition for 12 hours of work, for a “pro” – 250–300. PAPING
Inserting or, as they now more often say, spacers of primers into the sleeve is not a difficult matter.
The skill comes quickly during the process, and it does not take much time. The main thing you need to pay attention to is that there are no defects or distortions. The capsules themselves must be new and fit for use within the period indicated on the packaging or insert. LOADING POUNDER
Immediately divide the cartridges into three groups: with standard, increased weight and magnum. In the latter case, there should be no more than one and a half to two dozen cartridges. Of course, if you constantly practice magnum, then the proportions must be changed.

Adding gunpowder is the most important operation. There shouldn't be any mistakes here. Both manual and automatic dispensers are used to fill gunpowder. To be honest, previously produced gunpowder, which hunters still keep in their storerooms, was almost always weighed by hand.

For this, the good old standards were suitable, the use of which, with a certain amount of experience and dexterity, was justified. For modern, more sensitive powders, this is categorically impossible to do, and why, when more accurate dispensers have appeared that make work much easier.

Read the material “Found shell casings in the grass: what to do with them”

The worst thing is that any, even the smallest overdose, especially if the gunpowder is very sensitive, can lead to an accident.
INSTALLING A POWDER WAD
It is best to cut out the wads yourself using a special die cutter.
It should be cardboard with a thickness of 2, preferably 2.5 mm. Do not place a “layer cake” of thin wads. The quality of combat is noticeably deteriorating. The addition of the gasket to the powder is normal, without lifting the elbow from the table. INSTALLING A FELT WAD.
INSTALLING THE CONTAINER For autumn hunting, try to use only a greasy wad. Do not use soft felt, much less pressed paper wads. The filling of the wad is made dense, as for powder. One-size wads can cause trouble for you, especially if they are large in height.

It's good if you have felt pads; Well, no, then you have to spend time “shredding” the main ones. And you still have to do this if you decide to load a magnum into a 70 mm cartridge case, especially with an older Falcon.

As for containers, most of them are designed for 32 g of shot No. 6–3 and 33 g for No. 7–9. Next, you will have to look for deeper containers, up to those used in the magnum. There is an opinion that the container is almost a panacea for all ills (meaning the abundance of misses and wounded animals).

The container is the easiest to coat due to the compactness of the shot sheaf. And you’re right about wounded animals: swarming greatly improves the killability of game. True, not all containers are good.

Experimental shootings have shown that only “cups” placed on a felt wad improve combat, and containers with a sealed wad are very ineffective.
Hunters usually cut it off. But don't rush to throw away the saucer. It will come in handy when loading long-range buckshot cartridges. INSTALLING THE WAD UNDER THE SHOT
This should be a solid 0.5 mm cardboard wad, which would not allow the shot to sink into the felt when fired.
Having captured up to two or more grams of shot, the felt wad will disrupt all ballistics, and the quality of the shot will be far from expected. FILLING THE SHOTS
Never use oxidized, “cloudy” shot. It can fall apart in the bore before it even leaves it. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the shot, and at the first appearance of “mold” it is necessary to carefully roll it in a saucepan or any other container until it is completely free of oxide.

People often ask, can oils be used? It is possible, but only special technical ones that do not contain destructive components. The shot should not “float” in the oil. You should definitely wipe it almost dry and try to use it at the first opportunity.

Once again we draw the attention of hunters that modern powders must be weighed strictly in accordance with the attached instructions and the data specified in the reference literature.

We have already said that during the autumn hunting period, the determining factors for loading cartridges are the type of hunting itself and the game. A positive result can only be achieved when the quality of the shot meets all the required parameters; sharpness, uniformity of shot distribution and accuracy.

Read the material “How to make a high-quality cartridge yourself”

Here you can’t do without patience and certain expenses, just like you can’t do without a hunting target. No amount of shooting at empty cans will help you. Practice has shown that when hunting a bird, it is best to use a 100-sided target, which is easy to draw yourself.

The very first shots (and you can make a final judgment only after five control shootings from each sample) will visually show the pros and cons of the gun’s combat.

We will not provide tables and calculation formulas - you can take this data from any special publications. Let's limit ourselves to a simple example.

It is believed that if from a distance of 35 meters, shooting with the seventh number of pellets, 2-3 pellets hit a bullseye with a diameter of 5 cm (which is approximately the size of a quail), then this is quite enough to kill the bird. 5-8 pellets should fall into a circle with a diameter of 16.3 cm, but in practice everything looks different. The bird, as a rule, flies out or sits closer, and its degree of damage is much higher.

Now more specifically. Hazel grouse for decoy. Most often, with skillful maneuvering, the cockerel flies quite close, especially if the hunt is carried out in dense forest and the hunter does not have the opportunity to make a shot at a distance.

Here, in order not to break the bird, you should reduce the shot charge to 24 or even 20 g and only slightly reduce the gunpowder charge.
Crake, Quail, Hollow, Snipe
The trick is that shooting of these birds is always carried out in flight, where the error in aiming, especially for beginners, gambling hunters or those who hunt without dogs, can be extremely large.

Consequently, the charge must be made more dispersive and, of course, not shoot a bird that has flown out 30 meters away. Typically, a standard cartridge with a standard charge of gunpowder and shot is used here.

And to make a scattering charge, they use the three most common methods. The first is when, with a weight of gunpowder corresponding to 33–34 g of shot, it is reduced to 30 or even 28 grams.

The second is when the shot load of a standard cartridge is transferred with a shot wad so that it is approximately 5 mm. The third is to install a cross-shaped cardboard separator. This four-section cross is made by the hunters themselves. It gives good positive results, but takes a lot of time.

At a later period of time, when the game has become stronger and began to maintain the distance, there are three ways to load cartridges. Some increase the standard charge by using various containers, fillers, familiar starch, paraffin and wax.

And others increase the shot weight to 36.5 g, selecting the appropriate powder charge and also installing pressure guns.
Still others, who have a weapon, switch to a long-range magnum. BUTTING AND ROLLING CARTRIDGES
There are three main methods of bulging and rolling cartridges.

1. With a cardboard wad and subsequent rolling of the edge of the sleeve with a circular matrix.
2. Without a cardboard wad, using a star shape.
3. With installation of a cardboard wad without rolling.

The first method is the most common among hunters. A light wad made of brittle cardboard is placed on the shot, and a marking wad is placed on top. Cardboard wads are successfully replaced with fragile, cut plastic ones. Any type of cartridge, including magnum, can be made for this type of twist.

An unpleasant point can be considered that even steel dies wear out quickly when screwing in polyethylene sleeves, especially those made domestically. And a product made of plastic materials is completely unsuitable.

The “star” twist is more appealing to stand exhibitors. It is inconvenient to mark such cartridges for hunting, and the improvement in combat, which for some reason is talked about so much, is insignificant. Most likely, it is designed to gain time in the spinning stage.

It is enough to lubricate the edges of the wad and the sleeve with good glue like “Moment” - and everything is in order. But this type of “twist” has both its pros and cons. The fact that it does not require crimping and saves time is a positive thing.

Read the material “Cartridge Loading Density Matters”

After the shot, the cartridge case remains as good as new, its muzzle does not require editing, therefore, it is quite suitable for repeated use. But such a cartridge cannot be used in automatic and semi-automatic weapons. And it can withstand no more than 5-6 recoil shocks, after which shot can spill out of it.

It is very convenient on autumn duck flights, good for hunting snipe and woodcock rashes.
Ballistics experts say that with this “rolling” the uniformity of the shot deposits significantly increases. CRIMPING
An extremely important operation, especially for capricious automatic and semi-automatic machines. Few people realize how much a hunter gains when his cartridges “swallow” into the barrel, and in a matter of seconds he is ready for the next shot.

And how funny and pathetic it can be to look at those who suffer and forcefully try to push a cartridge into the chamber. And here is the apotheosis of the whole action: the cartridge is jammed so that it is neither here nor there. Anger, frustration and disappointment. And the game is flying!

Domestic calibration rings (crimps), unfortunately, are for the most part “not strict”: cartridges “fall through” into them, and fit tightly into the chamber. You have to modify the products yourself, make them to order from private traders, or purchase imports.

Mikhail Pantseluzin August 22, 2022 at 00:02

Safety precautions when shooting Flaubert cartridges

Despite the apparent safety of such ammunition, precautions cannot be taken lightly. Gunsmith specialists testify that the Flaubert cartridge of 4 m caliber, when fired from a distance of 3-5 m, leaves skin lesions with wound channels. Despite the rather low flight speed, such an instance leads to damage to muscle fibers, subcutaneous fat mass, sternum, and ribs. Such wounds are considered to be of moderate severity. Damage to the eyeball is especially dangerous and can lead to death. This is why it is so important to follow safety precautions when handling this weapon.

New in blogs

The promised article about impressions of the revolver chambered for Flaubert.

Author Misha

Monday, December 7, 2009 02:39

Impressions of the owner of a Weihrauch HW4 Arminius 2 revolver chambered for the 4 mm Flaubert cartridge.

The results of real shooting into hard objects and soft human tissues are presented.

I have been the owner of this German revolver for three years, and I want to write a few words about it.

Technical data declared by the manufacturer (https://www.weihrauch-sport.de/englisch/e_startseite/e_index.htm):

Barrel length 63 mm

Caliber 4 mm

Length 170 mm

Number of charges: 8 pcs.

Weight 710 grams

The revolver is reliable; there were no misfires during use. The weapon performed well in the shooting range; from 10 meters, six out of eight bullets hit the bull’s-eye without much effort.

When you first get acquainted with the revolver, you immediately notice the extraordinary ergonomics of the rubber-plastic handle. During the grip, the balance of the weapon and its dimensions are perfectly felt.

I would include the built-in automatic fuse as a separate advantage.

One of the disadvantages is the non-adjustable sight, although in Arminius with a barrel length of over 3.5 inches it is adjustable. During prolonged use, the front sight fell off. because The fixing screw has become loose.

The descent is difficult. After about the six hundredth shot, the hammer return spring burst. After its replacement, the trigger became easier and more enjoyable, which led to increased accuracy during tempo shooting.

Conclusion. A reliable and pleasant-to-shoot revolver with minimal recoil and low cost per shot (about 1.30 UAH per cartridge). Great item for self-defense and entertainment.

Mikhail Ovsyannikov, fan of shooting games.

As they say, from the editor.

I decided to test this revolver in action and rented it for one evening from my eldest son, who is the author of the text above.

So, photos. Actually, the hero of our discussion (Fig. 1):

Weihrauch HW4 Arminius 2

The revolver is really small, what it looks like in a holster:

Revolver in a holster. For comparison, a lighter is attached (Fig. 2).

Country marking -.

Manufacturer's marking (Fig. 3).

I’m not mistaken, the revolver frame is made of TsAM (zinc-aluminum-copper) alloy, painted black. The paint wears off after a while:

View with the drum folded down (Fig. 4).

Removing cartridges is carried out in the traditional way, used in revolvers for more than a hundred years:

View of the drum extractor, which lifted the spent cartridges (Fig. 5).

The muzzle of the barrel does not represent anything threatening:

Muzzle of the barrel (Fig. 6).

Sights:

Rear sight (Fig. 7).

Front sight (Fig. 8).

So, let's shoot.

In the nearest shopping center, two dozen standard cartridges were bought for 1.25 UAH. There were also 3 UAH each, but I considered it wasteful to pay for such ammunition almost as much as for a good cartridge for a small-caliber rifle.

Flaubert 4 mm cartridges and spent cartridges (Fig. 9).

The location of the shooting was chosen to be a nearby construction waste dump away from people. It was already getting dark and it was starting to rain, so we didn’t take photographs on site.

The descent turned out to be difficult, which excluded the possibility of accurately hitting the target from ten meters. But after preliminary cocking of the firing pin, the trigger force becomes fundamentally less and aimed shots can be fired.

The revolver is pre-cocked, ready to fire. In this case, the trigger goes almost to the rearmost position (Fig. 10).

The fuse is very well designed. The back of the striker is protected by a special part (I don’t know its correct name). A strike on the firing pin is possible only after the firing pin is moved to the rearmost position, which occurs either after pre-cocking or after a strong, deep press on the trigger. Thus, when carried in a pocket, even if the firing pin accidentally touches, there will be no shot.

A safety part that prevents accidental impact on the firing pin (Fig. 11).

The actual shot is not accompanied by recoil. The sound is a cross between a gunshot and a small-caliber rifle. Rather, it is more like the clap of a strong Chinese toy pistol piston. In any case, the DSO squad drove past us twice, but we did not attract their attention. The flame shoots out of the barrel 15 centimeters, the smell of powder gases is similar to the smell of small things.

Among the construction waste there were not many objects suitable for the role of test targets (or maybe it was a resting place for Kiev residents). They first shot at the packaging made of foamed polyethylene. It looks like it was in the box with the LCD TV. All six fired bullets... remained there. The bullets did not penetrate through the 12-15 cm thick package.

The board is another matter. A wet pine plank 10 mm thick turned up. The bullets went right through.

Entry holes of bullets in a wet board (Fig. 12).

Exit holes of 4 mm bullets in a wet strip 10 mm thick (Fig. 13).

They didn’t shoot at the bottle jars, because... there were none nearby.

My feelings and conclusions:

lightweight, comfortable to wear;

cheap ammunition, exceptional reliability;

It is not applicable for a child as a training weapon, since only an adult can cock it, the danger of injury is high;

for training and recreational shooting - possible, but expensive;

self-defense? There is no deafening sound, no fire torch, whether it will pierce clothes is a question. If it hits the body, will the attacker stop from pain or just get angry? You can hit the crown with a handle, but this can be done with any other object.

I think this is a toy for teenagers. But at its price!..

Updated 12/12/2009

Once again we went out to shoot. This time the target was a two-liter Bonaqua bottle and an aluminum beer can.

Result:

from a distance of 3 meters, an aluminum can breaks through;

from the same distance, when a plastic bottle hits the upper part tangentially, it DOESN’T EVEN FALL, the bullet leaves a small mark;

when it hits the middle part of the bottle normally (this is “at 90°”), the plastic breaks through and the bullets remain in the bottle.

Shot casings and bullets of the 4 mm Flaubert cartridge (Fig. 14).

Continued 12/31/2009.

Preparing for the New Year. On the way, my youngest and I stopped again to shoot with this weapon.

They shot from a distance of about three meters into a wooden fence. The pellet fits in so that its back part practically does not protrude from the board.

They shot me in the... well, below the belt from a distance of about 4-5 meters.

Feeling: remember when you were a child, you would take an elastic band with one hand and, pulling it tightly with the other hand, “shoot” through each other’s pants? So the pain through the jeans is a little stronger. The pellet was found right here in the snow.

For ethical reasons, I will not post a photo of the soft part of the body, but I will say that there was a swelling left there, similar to a bee sting, about 2.5 cm in diameter.

I think through the shearling jacket I would have felt it like a finger tapping.

Continued 01/04/2010.

Among other things, we took this revolver with us to the shooting range. Unfortunately, there were only 4 rounds left. But the result of shooting at the target was very good.

The result of shooting from a distance of 5 meters, preliminary cocking, 4 shots (Fig. 15).

Standing with both hands, aiming. Before each shot, a preliminary cocking was performed. Distance 5 meters, sports target No. 4.

Result: 10-10-9-9. The last two were one-on-one.

This is what it is, a weapon with a Flaubert cartridge. By the way, in one of the stores they corrected me and said that it is correct to pronounce “FlobEra” with an emphasis on the “e”.

* * *

PS Thanks to the guys from the revolver club forum, and especially to Alexey Bell Amore for constructive comments and review of this article.