Which term describes a round with a reduced powder charge?

Which term describes a round with a reduced powder charge?

• A. Squib
• B. Pip
• C. Hangfire
• D. Misfire

Answer: (A)

A squib describes a cartridge that fires with too small a powder charge, producing a weak discharge that may not propel the bullet out of the barrel. Because the charge is insufficient, the bullet’s velocity is greatly reduced and it can even get stuck in the bore, creating a dangerous obstruction. This specific term is used to distinguish an underpowered shot from a misfire (no ignition at all) or a hangfire (delayed ignition). The term pip isn’t a standard term for this situation. So, the best answer is squib because it directly refers to the undercharged round and the weak, ineffective discharge it produces.

A squib describes a cartridge that fires with too small a powder charge, producing a weak discharge that may not propel the bullet out of the barrel. Because the charge is insufficient, the bullet’s velocity is greatly reduced and it can even get stuck in the bore, creating a dangerous obstruction. This specific term is used to distinguish an underpowered shot from a misfire (no ignition at all) or a hangfire (delayed ignition). The term pip isn’t a standard term for this situation. So, the best answer is squib because it directly refers to the undercharged round and the weak, ineffective discharge it produces.