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From: consp04@bingsuns.cc.binghamton.edu (Dan Boyd)
Newsgroups: sci.military
Subject: Re: Muzzles of cannons
Keywords: muzzle brake
Message-ID: <1991Apr19.071330.14947@amd.com>
Date: 18 Apr 91 18:04:01 GMT
References: <1991Apr18.032433.21674@amd.com>
Sender: military@amd.com
Organization: SUNY Binghamton
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From: consp04@bingsuns.cc.binghamton.edu (Dan Boyd)


khai@adi.com (Sao Khai Mong) writes:
> On the muzzle of certain guns and howitzers, there is a
> hammerhead-like attachment present.  What is the purpose of it and
> why do certain guns need it and others not?

	This is a muzzle brake, which directs the firing gases
backwards to propel the gun forwards to damp the recoil.  It makes the
gun much LOUDER.  You don't see them on guns that don't need muzzle
brakes to help absorb the recoil.  Naval guns don't have them because
the recoil is absorbed by the water.  Modern tank guns don't have them
because the recoil is absorbed by the recoil pistons.
	Water guns don't have appreciable recoil, and thus don't need
muzzle brakes.

Daniel F. Boyd
consp04@bingvaxu.cc.binghamton.edu