Ballistics: Theory and Design of Guns and Ammunition, Third Edition

About the Book

Ballistics: Theory and Design of Guns and Ammunition, Third Edition is a comprehensive engineering reference that explores the scientific principles, physical processes, and technical concepts behind ballistics and ammunition systems. Written by Donald E. Carlucci and Sidney S. Jacobson, the book combines theoretical knowledge with practical engineering applications to provide readers with a deeper understanding of this specialized field.

The book examines the three fundamental branches of ballistics: interior ballistics, exterior ballistics, and terminal ballistics. It discusses the underlying principles of physics, mechanics, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and material behaviour that are relevant to the academic study of projectile motion and ammunition performance. Readers are introduced to mathematical models, engineering analysis, computational methods, and scientific approaches used to understand complex ballistic phenomena.

The third edition builds upon earlier editions with revised material, expanded explanations, updated examples, additional illustrations, and supplementary learning exercises. It also broadens its coverage to include subjects such as gas-powered guns and naval ordnance, offering a wider perspective on the engineering and scientific applications of ballistics.

Designed for mechanical and aerospace engineering students, researchers, educators, and technical professionals, this book serves as an academic and professional reference for understanding the theoretical foundations and engineering aspects of ballistics. Its structured presentation makes it a useful resource for advanced study, technical research, and university-level engineering libraries.

About the Authors

Donald E. Carlucci is an accomplished mechanical engineer, researcher, and academic specializing in ballistics, computational structural modeling, and engineering design. He has worked at the U.S. Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center at Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, since 1989. He holds a Ph.D. and a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology, along with a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He has also served as an adjunct professor of Mechanical Engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology and is a founding and senior member of the International Ballistics Society.

Sidney S. Jacobson was an experienced researcher, engineer, and weapons and ammunition designer who spent 35 years at the U.S. Army's Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey. During his distinguished career, he progressed through several research and development positions and eventually became Associate Director for Research and Development. He holds a Master's degree in Applied Mechanics from Stevens Institute of Technology and a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Brooklyn College. Following his retirement in 1986, he continued contributing to the field through teaching, consulting, and professional lectures.

Together, Carlucci and Jacobson bring decades of engineering expertise, research experience, and academic knowledge to the study of ballistics and ammunition technology.