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What are Empty Bullets Called?

Published in Firearms Terminology 3 mins read

"Empty bullets," a colloquial term often referring to cartridges that lack a projectile or active components, are most precisely known as blanks if they contain propellant but no projectile, or dummies if they are entirely inert.

Understanding "Empty Bullets"

The term "bullet" technically refers only to the projectile part of a firearm cartridge. The complete assembly, which includes the projectile, casing, propellant, and primer, is called a cartridge or round. When people refer to "empty bullets," they are typically thinking of cartridges that are non-live or incomplete in some way. The specific terminology depends on what exactly is "empty" or missing.

Key Terms for Non-Standard Cartridges

Understanding the specific types of cartridges that might be considered "empty" or non-standard is crucial for clarity and safety. Here are the precise definitions:

Types of Non-Standard Cartridges

Term Description Common Use Cases
Blank A cartridge without a projectile. It contains a primer and propellant, allowing it to produce a flash and sound when fired. Used extensively in theatrical productions for special effects, by starting pistols in athletic events, and in military or law enforcement training exercises to simulate live fire without projectile danger. Some specialized blanks are also used to launch grenades or operate gas-operated firearms.
Dummy A cartridge that is completely inert, meaning it contains no active primer and no propellant. It typically includes a projectile and casing. Primarily used for training purposes, allowing individuals to practice loading, unloading, and malfunction drills safely. They are also invaluable for demonstrating firearm mechanisms, function testing firearms after repairs, or for display in collections, as they pose no risk of accidental discharge.
Dud A live cartridge that was loaded into a firearm and failed to ignite and shoot off its projectile when the firing pin struck the primer. Not "empty" in the sense of lacking components, but rather a malfunction. Duds are hazardous and must be handled with extreme caution, as they could still detonate unexpectedly after a delay. Proper disposal protocols are essential for safety.

Why the Distinction Matters

The precise terminology for these non-standard cartridges is vital for several reasons:

  • Safety: Knowing whether a cartridge is a blank, dummy, or dud informs how it should be handled, stored, and used, preventing accidents. A blank can still be dangerous at close range due to gas pressure and wadding, while a dud is an unpredictable explosive hazard.
  • Training and Education: Accurate terms are essential for effective firearms training, ensuring that participants understand the characteristics and safe handling procedures for different types of ammunition.
  • Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Laws and regulations often differentiate between live ammunition, blanks, and inert cartridges, impacting their sale, possession, and use.

Understanding these distinctions ensures clarity in communication within the firearms community and promotes safe practices for anyone handling firearms or ammunition.