Projectile with aft-mounted cutting edges

Abstract

A projectile includes an elongated shaft having a fore-end and an aft-end. A nose portion is affixed to the fore-end of the shaft, and cutting edges are attached near the aft-end of the shaft. For the present invention, the nose portion of the projectile is preferably made of a material having a greater density than the material that is used to construct the shaft of the projectile. In any event, the structure and configuration of the projectile is such that its center of gravity is located in the forward half of the projectile. Also, the cutting edges at the aft-end of the shaft can be configured to function as stabilizing fins for the projectile in flight.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention pertains generally to projectiles. More particularly, the present invention pertains to projectiles that are suited for use with man-powered weapons, such as a crossbow. The present invention is particularly, but not exclusively, useful as a projectile having a center of gravity located towards the forward end of the projectile and having cutting edges mounted towards the rear of the projectile.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Two of the most important considerations in the design and manufacture of projectiles are accuracy and effectiveness. In particular, these considerations may have greater importance when the projectile is to be fired from a so-called “man-powered” weapon, such as a crossbow or a compound bow. In general, projectiles that are used with such weapons will be constructed with an elongated shaft. Further, for hunting activities, these projectiles will typically employ a broadhead (cutting element) that is mounted at...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is designed to work with a man-powered weapon like a crossbow. Its unique shape allows it to fit into the launch rail of the crossbow. The projectile has two contact points, one near the front and one near the back. The back end of the shaft is flared out to create a circular shape with a specific size. This contact point is important for keeping the projectile's axis parallel to the crossbow's launch rail. Overall, this design makes it easy to use a man-powered weapon with a crossbow.

Problems solved by technology

On the other hand, unwanted aerodynamic forces that may be generated forward of the center of gravity, such as by an imperfect broadhead, may have substantial adverse effects on both the stability and accuracy of the projectile.

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