Less-lethal projectiles and cartridges and methods of use and manufacture of the same

Abstract

A less-lethal projectile comprising a sabot and at least one chain and / or string. The sabot may be at least partially made up of a metal, a metal alloy, a polymeric material, or a wax. The sabot may be in the form of a simple sabot, a flexible sabot, a separable sabot, or a soft sabot. A flexible sabot is a sabot being made up of a tail portion and at least two petals connected to the tail portion by a flexible linkage. A chain or string may be in any of the following shapes: straight, circular, radial, wheel-and-spoke, dendritic, ball, filled-ball, or any of these chain or string shapes having at least one connected weight. A less-lethal projectile may be assembled with a case and a primer to form a cartridge. A cartridge may be compatible with a firearm or launcher chambered for one or more standardized cartridges.

Description

[0001] LESS-LETHAL PROJECTILES AND CARTRIDGES AND METHODS OF USE AND MANUFACTURE OF THE SAME

[0002] BACKGROUND

[0003] Less-lethal ammunition is often intended to provide a level of physical persuasion less than what is commonly thought of as the lethal force of a firearm. Less-lethal ammunition often relies upon electrical means to deter or incapacitate an individual, such as in US Patent No. 5,786,546 to Simson and in US Patent No. 6,636,412 to Smith. Other less-lethal ammunition relies upon transferring kinetic energy to a person, such as in US10408586 to DeAngelis. Modern electrically-based less-lethal ammunition is, unfortunately, not nearly as reliable as standard firearm ammunition, and modem kinetic less-lethal ammunition is only available to be fired from inconvenient launchers and firearms.

[0004] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The invention described herein relates, in general, to projectiles and less-lethal projectiles and cartridges thereof.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Briefly, and in non-limiting terms, described herein are less-lethal projectiles and cartridges intended to deter, incapacitate, damage, or disable a person, an animal, or a vehicle Also described are methods of manufacture and use of the same projectiles and cartridges.

[0008] Embodiments described herein offer advantages relative to previously known less-lethal projectiles and cartridges. Some embodiments herein provide for a less-lethal projectile that can be conveniently fired from a standard handgun. All embodiments described herein offer greater reliability than modern electrically -based less-lethal ammunition.

[0009] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Fig. 1 is a side view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot, assembled with a metallic case and primer to form a cartridge.

[0011] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot, assembled with a metallic case, a primer, and a propellant to form a cartridge. Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot, after the sabot has exited a barrel and has separated from a chain.

[0012] Fig. 4 is a perspective side view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot, after the sabot has exited a barrel and has separated from a chain.

[0013] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a less-lethal projectile, including a soft sabot, assembled with a metallic case, a primer, and a propellant to form a cartridge.

[0014] Fig. 6 is a perspective side view of sabot sections of a separable sabot, being made up of two sabot sections.

[0015] Fig. 7 is a perspective side view of sabot sections of a separable sabot, wherein the entire sabot is made up of three identical sections but only two are shown to improve understanding.

[0016] Fig. 8 is an orthogonal view of a straight chain.

[0017] Fig. 9 is an orthogonal view of a circular chain.

[0018] Fig. 10 is an orthogonal view of a circular chain having connected weights.

[0019] Fig. 11 is an orthogonal view of a radial chain.

[0020] Fig. 12 is an orthogonal view of a radial chain having a central weight.

[0021] Fig. 13 is an orthogonal view of a wheel -and-spoke chain.

[0022] Fig. 14 is an orthogonal view of a dendritic chain.

[0023] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a ball chain.

[0024] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a filled-ball chain.

[0025] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] The present disclosure provides for less-lethal projectiles and cartridges, and methods of manufacture and use of the projectiles and cartridges. All references cited within this document are incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety.

[0027] Embodiments, serving the purpose of examples, are described herein with sufficient detail to enable those of skill in the art to practice the invention. It should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The detailed description is presented to describe the features and characteristics of the present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation of the invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. The scope of the present invention is to be defined only by the appended claims.

[0028] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details of certain embodiments are set forth. Reference in the specification to “an example”, “an embodiment”, or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least that one embodiment, but not necessarily in other embodiments.

[0029] Within this specification, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a polymer" includes one or more of such materials, and reference to "heating" includes reference to one or more of such steps. Herein, when reference is made to “chain” and / or “string”, this is understood to indicate at least one chain and / or at least one string.

[0030] As used herein, a plurality of items, structural elements, compositional elements, and / or materials may be presented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists should be construed as though each member of the list is individually identified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual member of such lists should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any other member of the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group without indications to the contrary.

[0031] As used herein, numerical values used in combination with “about” will be understood to indicate all numerical values 20 % above the numerical value to 20 % below the value. For example, “a diameter of about 3 mm” will be understood to indicate diameter of 2.4 to 3.6 mm, inclusive of all values within that range.

[0032] Concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such a range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. For example, a numerical range of 1 to 4.5 should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited limits of 1 to 4.5, but also to include individual numerals such as 2, 3, 4, and sub-ranges such as 1 to 3, 2 to 4, etc. The same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value, such as "less than 4.5". Further, such an interpretation should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristic being described.

[0033] Described herein, are embodiments of less-lethal projectiles and cartridges. The less- lethal projectiles and cartridges described herein may be useful to deter, incapacitate, damage, and / or disable a person, animal, unmanned aerial vehicle, and / or another type of vehicle.

[0034] As used herein, a “less-lethal projectile” may be at least made up of at least one chain, at least one string, or at least one chain and at least one string, wherein the chain and / or string may be assembled with a sabot. As used herein, a “sabot” may be a structure that: at least partially surrounds a chain and / or string, moves with the chain and / or string through a barrel, and is intended to substantially separate from the chain and / or string before the chain and / or string reaches a target. As used herein, a “petal” may be a portion of a sabot that is intended to flex, to allow for a chain and / or a string to separate from the sabot after exiting a barrel.

[0035] As used herein, a “chain” may be defined either by its plain meaning or defined as: an assembly of rigid components (for example, links) that are linked together such that the assembly is not rigid. Further, a “chain” may be made up of a single chain segment, multiple chain segments, or multiple connected chain segments. As used herein, a “chain segment” is a linear segment of chain. For example, each of the linear segments, which extend radially outward from the central intersection in Fig. 11, are properly described herein as chain segments. As used herein, a “string segment” may be defined as a linear segment of at least one of the following: any flexible rod of material, a cord, a rope, a wire, a rope of wire, a wire made up of thinner wire strands, a bus wire, a fiber, or a string having the plain meaning thereof. The cross sectional shape of a “string segment” does not need to be circular. As used herein, a “string” may be made up of: a single string segment, multiple connected string segments, a single string segment connected to a chain, multiple string segments connected to a chain, or multiple connected string segments connected to a chain.

[0036] As used herein, a “straight chain” or “straight string” is a chain or string that has only one chain segment or string segment with no connected intersections. As used herein, a “circular chain” or “circular string” is a chain or string formed into a circular shape. As used herein, a “radial chain” or “radial string” is a chain or string wherein a central intersection is present with chain segments and / or string segments attached to the central intersection. As used herein, a “wheel-and-spoke chain” or “wheel -and-spoke string” may be a chain or string having at least: a circular portion, a central intersection, and chain segments and / or string segments connected to both the central intersection and the circular portion. As used herein, a “dendritic chain” or “dendritic string” is a chain or string having a central intersection and chain segments and / or string segments attached to the central intersection, wherein at least one of the chain segments and / or string segments are connected to an intersection that is not the central intersection. As used herein, a “ball chain” or “ball string” is a chain or string having a first intersection and a second intersection and having more than two chain segments and / or string segments connected to both the first intersection and the second intersection. As used herein, a “filled-ball chain” or “filled-ball string” is a chain or string having a first intersection and a second intersection and having more than three chain segments and / or string segments connected to both the first intersection and the second intersection, wherein at least one chain segment or string segment is shorter in length than the other chain segments and / or string segments. As used herein, a “hoop chain” or a “hoop string” refers to chain and / or string segments attached to a central ring.

[0037] As used herein, a “riot control agent” may be a chemical compound, or a mixture of chemical compounds, that may be useful in deterring a mammal from continuing its current activity. In some embodiments, a riot control agent causes irritation to at least one of: the eyes, mouth, nose, throat, lungs, and skin. In some embodiments, a riot control agent is made up of one or more of the following compounds: chloroacetophenone (CN), chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile (CS), chloropicrin (PS), bromobenzylcyanide (CA), dibenzoxazepine (CR), or another useful irritant. The disclosure of TEETZEL et al. (US 2019 / 0202558 Al, Publication Date 4 July 2019) is incorporated herein, in its entirety.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a side view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot, assembled with a metallic case and primer to form a cartridge. A flexible sabot 101 can be seen, fitted into a metallic case 105. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot, assembled with a metallic case, a primer, and a propellant to form a cartridge. The flexible sabot can be seen to have multiple petals 117 attached to a tail portion 118 of the sabot. The distal end of the sabot, in relation to the tail, terminates in an open tip 103. A single chain 104 is present within the sabot. The sabot is partially surrounded by a metallic case 105. Granules of propellant 106 are present within the interior of the case 105, and a primer 107 is present at the base of the case.

[0039] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot, after the sabot has exited a barrel and has separated from a chain. In this perspective view, a flexible sabot 101 has already exited a barrel 108. The petals of the flexible sabot have opened, and the chain 104 has separated from the flexible sabot. Fig. 4 is a perspective side view of a less-lethal projectile, including a flexible sabot 101, after the sabot has exited a barrel 108 and has separated from a chain 104. This figure is depicting the same structures as shown in the previous figure, but from the side.

[0040] Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a less-lethal projectile, including a soft sabot, assembled with a metallic case, a primer, and a propellant to form a cartridge. A soft sabot 110 is partially surrounded by a metallic case 105. A chain is present within the soft sabot, and the portions of the chain 104 that cross through the cross-sectional view plane can be seen. Granules of propellant 106 are present within the interior of the case 105, and a primer 107 is present at the base of the case.

[0041] Fig. 6 is a perspective side view of sabot sections of a separable sabot, being made up of two sabot sections. An illustrative separable sabot can be seen having two dissimilar halves. The first half of the separable sabot 111, has a protrusion 113 located close to the base. The second half of the separable sabot 112, has a recess 114 located close to the base.

[0042] Fig. 7 is a perspective side view of sabot sections of a separable sabot, wherein the entire sabot is made up of three sections but only two are shown to improve readability. An illustrative separable sabot can be seen having identical sections. The section of the separable sabot present on the left 115 of the figure can be seen to have a protrusion located close to the base. This same sabot section on the left also has a recess present close to the base where the two sabot sections are shown to meet, but this recess cannot be seen in the figure. The section of the separable sabot present on the right 115 of the figure can be seen to have a recess located close to the base. This same sabot section on the right also has a protrusion present close to the base where the two sabot sections are shown to meet, but this protrusion cannot be seen in the figure. Both of these sabot sections are identical, and a third identical section is needed to complete the sabot. This third section has been omitted in the figure so that the structure can be more readily understood.

[0043] Fig. 8 is an orthogonal view of a straight chain. Fig. 9 is an orthogonal view of a circular chain. Fig. 10 is an orthogonal view of a circular chain having connected weights. Fig. 11 is an orthogonal view of a radial chain. Fig. 12 is an orthogonal view of a radial chain having a central weight. Fig. 13 is an orthogonal view of a wheel-and-spoke chain. Fig. 14 is an orthogonal view of a dendritic chain. Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a ball chain. Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a filled-ball chain.

[0044] The figures and their descriptions herein present illustrative embodiments and are not limiting to the invention described herein. While figures 1-7 show embodiments compatible with a firearm chambered for 9 mm Parabellum, the embodiments described herein are not limited to these dimensions. While figures 8-16 illustrate embodiments being made up of chains, any illustrated chain shape can also be made up partially or wholly of string in other embodiments.

[0045] In some embodiments, a single chain is present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, multiple chains are present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, a single string is present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, multiple strings are present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, a single chain and a single string are present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, multiple chains and a single string are present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, a single chain and multiple strings are present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, multiple chains and multiple strings are present in a less-lethal projectile.

[0046] In some embodiments, at least one chain is present and none of the rigid components, or links, that make up the chain exceed 1.0 millimeters (mm), 1.6 mm, 3.0 mm, 5 mm, or 50 mm in any dimension. In some embodiments, at least one chain is present and the smallest of the rigid components, or links, that make up the chain exceed 1.0 millimeters (mm), 1.6 mm, 3.0 mm, 5 mm, or 50 mm in any dimension.

[0047] In some embodiments, at least one weight is connected to a chain and / or a string. In some embodiments, weights are connected to the terminal ends of a chain and / or a string. In some embodiments, at least one weight forms a connection, or intersection point, within a chain and / or a string. In some embodiments, weights are present at all of the intersections within a chain and / or a string.

[0048] In some embodiments, a weight is made up of a metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, a weight is made up of a polymeric material. In some embodiments, a weight is made up of an inorganic and / or ceramic material. In some embodiments, a weight is made up of a relatively dense material, optionally having a density greater than 2 g / mL.

[0049] In some embodiments, a container, such as a polymer sphere, is present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, a container is present in a less-lethal projectile, wherein the container holds at least one riot control agent. In some embodiments, a container is present in a less-lethal projectile, wherein the container is connected to a chain and / or a string in the less- lethal projectile. In some embodiments, a container is present in a less-lethal projectile, wherein the container is connected to a chain and / or a string in the less-lethal projectile and the container holds at least one riot control agent. In some embodiments, a container is intended to rupture upon striking a target.

[0050] In some embodiments, at least one chain is present in a less-lethal projectile, wherein at least one chain is in the form of a straight chain, a straight chain having at least one connected weight, a circular chain, a circular chain having at least one connected weight, a radial chain, a radial chain having at least one connected weight, a wheel-and-spoke chain, a wheel-and-spoke chain having at least one connected weight, a dendritic chain, a dendritic chain having at least one connected weight, a ball chain, a ball chain having at least one connected weight, a filled- ball chain, or a filled-ball chain having at least one connected weight.

[0051] In some embodiments, at least one string is present in a less-lethal projectile, wherein at least one string is in the form of: a straight string, a straight string having at least one connected weight, a circular string, a circular string having at least one connected weight, a radial string, a radial string having at least one connected weight, a wheel-and-spoke string, a wheel-and-spoke string having at least one connected weight, a dendritic string, a dendritic string having at least one connected weight, a ball string, a ball string having at least one connected weight, a filled- ball string, or a filled-ball string having at least one connected weight.

[0052] In some embodiments, a chain is at least partially made up of at least one of the following: a metal, a metal alloy, a metal alloy of any metal within this list, copper, a brass, a bronze, silver, a steel, a steel alloy, a stainless steel, magnesium, zinc, iron, nickel, lead, aluminum, titanium, gold, a natural filament, a synthetic filament, a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, a wax, a clay, an inorganic material, a ceramic, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a polymeric material, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a polyisoprene, a polyglycolic acid, a polylactic acid, a poly-2hydroxy butyrate, a polycaprolactone, an acrylic polymer, a polyvinylpyrrolidone, a nylon polymer, an aramid polymer, a polyterephthalate, a polyamide, a polyimide, a polysulfide, a polyvinyl alcohol, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyvinyl chloride, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methyl cellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a poly(p-phenylene terephthamide), a polypropylene ethylene, an acrylonitrilebutadiene- styrene copolymer, a polyvinyl formal, a polyvinyl butyral, a polyurethane, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyvinyl acetate, a polyoxymethylene, a phenolic resin, an epoxy resin, a polytetrafluoroethylene, a poly vinylidene fluoride, a polyvinylidene chloride, a silicone rubber, a polycarbonate, a polyetherketone, a polyetheretherketone, a poly etherimide, a polyester, a polysulfone, a polychloroprene, a poly ethersulfone, a poly(methyl methacrylate), a polyphenylene oxide, and a polyphenylene ether. In some embodiments, a chain is made up of at least one composite material. In some embodiments, a chain is at least partially made up of at least one copolymer, wherein the copolymer may be made up of monomers of any material or materials discussed in this document. In some embodiments, a chain is at least partially made up of at least one of the following: a stabilizer, an antistatic agent, a flame retardant, a plasticizer, a lubricant, a slip agent, a curing agent, a foaming agent, a biocide, a fluorophore, and a plasticizer. In some embodiments, a chain is made up of a metal or metal alloy plated with a dissimilar metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, a chain is coated with an anti-corrosion coating. In some embodiments, a chain is coated with a thin layer of a polymeric material. In some embodiments, a chain is coated with a lubricating coating, such as polytetrafluoroethylene. In some embodiments, a chain is galvanized.

[0053] In some embodiments, a chain of a less-lethal projectile is made up of at least a portion of chain that is in the form of a cable chain, chain maille, a ball chain, an anchor chain, a box chain, a popcorn chain, a curb chain, a Figaro chain, a Singapore chain, a rope chain, a snake chain, a wheat chain, a diamond cut wheat chain, a Parisian wheat chain, a bead chain, a rolo chain, a byzantine chain, a serpentine chain, a herringbone chain, a mesh chain, a bar chain, a Saturn chain, or a satellite chain.

[0054] In some embodiments, a string is at least partially made up of at least one of the following: a metal, a metal alloy, a metal alloy of any metal within this list, copper, a brass, a bronze, silver, a steel, a steel alloy, a stainless steel, magnesium, zinc, iron, nickel, lead, aluminum, titanium, gold, a natural filament, a synthetic filament, a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, a wax, a clay, an inorganic material, a ceramic, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a polymeric material, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a polyisoprene, a polyglycolic acid, a polylactic acid, a poly-2hydroxy butyrate, a polycaprolactone, an acrylic polymer, a polyvinylpyrrolidone, a nylon polymer, an aramid polymer, a polyterephthalate, a polyamide, a polyimide, a polysulfide, a polyvinyl alcohol, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyvinyl chloride, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methyl cellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropyl cellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a poly(p-phenylene terephthamide), a polypropylene ethylene, an acrylonitrilebutadiene- styrene copolymer, a polyvinyl formal, a polyvinyl butyral, a polyurethane, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyvinyl acetate, a polyoxymethylene, a phenolic resin, an epoxy resin, a polytetrafluoroethylene, a poly vinylidene fluoride, a polyvinylidene chloride, a silicone rubber, a polycarbonate, a polyetherketone, a polyetheretherketone, a poly etherimide, a polyester, a polysulfone, a polychloroprene, a poly ethersulfone, a poly(methyl methacrylate), a polyphenylene oxide, and a polyphenylene ether. In some embodiments, a string is made up of at least one composite material. In some embodiments, a string is at least partially made up of at least one copolymer, wherein the copolymer may be made up of monomers of any material or materials discussed in this document. In some embodiments, a string is at least partially made up of at least one of the following: a stabilizer, an antistatic agent, a flame retardant, a plasticizer, a lubricant, a slip agent, a curing agent, a foaming agent, a biocide, a fluorophore, and a plasticizer. In some embodiments, a string is made up, at least partially, of strands or fibers of a metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, a string is made up of a solid metal rod or metal alloy rod. In some embodiments, a string is made up of a metal or metal alloy plated with a dissimilar metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, a string is coated with an anti-corrosion coating. In some embodiments, a string is coated with a thin layer of a polymeric material. In some embodiments, a string is coated with a lubricating coating, such as polytetrafluoroethylene. In some embodiments, a string is galvanized.

[0055] In some embodiments, at least one intersection of a chain and / or a string is produced through at least one of the following processes: brazing, metal inert gas welding (MIG), tungsten inert gas welding (TIG), cold metal transfer welding (CMT), friction stir welding (FSW), gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), submerged arc welding (SAW), shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), resistance welding, induction heating welding, hybrid induction heating welding, or another welding process. In some embodiments, at least one intersection of a chain and / or a string is produced by applying: heat, a solvent, or an adhesive.

[0056] In some embodiments, chain segments may form an intersection through a rigid component which is itself a part of a chain segment. For example, three metal chain segments may be connected to a single metal chain link. In some embodiments, chain and / or string segments may also be connected through a component that is not part of a chain segment. For example, metal chain and / or string segments may be connected by being fused to a weight, a cage structure, and / or a spherical metal component.

[0057] SABOTS

[0058] In some embodiments, a sabot for a less-lethal projectile is manufactured, at least partially, through the use of: additive manufacturing (also referred to as 3D printing), fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), binder jetting, another type of additive manufacturing, extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, polymer casting, rotational molding, computer numerical control (CNC) machining, vacuum forming, casting, milling, or another type of subtractive manufacturing.

[0059] In some embodiments, a sabot is at least partially made up of at least one of the following: a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, a polyethylene glycol, a polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a natural filament, a synthetic filament, a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, a wax, a clay, an inorganic material, a ceramic, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a metal, a metal alloy, an alloy of any metal within this list, copper, brass, bronze, silver, a steel, a stainless steel, magnesium, zinc, an iron, nickel, lead, aluminum, titanium, gold, a polymeric material, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a polyisoprene, a polyglycolic acid, a polylactic acid, a poly-2hydroxy butyrate, a polycaprolactone, an acrylic polymer, a polyvinylpyrrolidone, a nylon polymer, an aramid polymer, a polyterephthalate, a polyamide, a polyimide, a polysulfide, a polyvinyl alcohol, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyvinyl chloride, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a poly(p-phenylene terephthamide), a polypropylene ethylene, an acrylonitrile- butadiene-styrene copolymer, a polyvinyl formal, a polyvinyl butyral, a polyurethane, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyvinyl acetate, a polyoxymethylene, a phenolic resin, an epoxy resin, a polytetrafluoroethylene, a polyvinylidene fluoride, a polyvinylidene chloride, a silicone rubber, a polycarbonate, a polyetherketone, a polyetheretherketone, a polyetherimide, a polyester, a polysulfone, a poly chloroprene, a poly ethersulfone, a poly(methyl methacrylate), a polyphenylene oxide, and a polyphenylene ether. In some embodiments, a sabot is made up of at least one composite material. In some embodiments, a sabot is at least partially made up of at least one copolymer, wherein the copolymer may be made up of monomers of any material or materials discussed in this document. In some embodiments, a sabot is at least partially made up of at least one of the following: a stabilizer, an antistatic agent, a flame retardant, a plasticizer, a lubricant, a slip agent, a curing agent, a foaming agent, a biocide, a fluorophore, and a plasticizer.

[0060] In some embodiments, the end of the sabot that exits a barrel first (the tip end) may be flat or formed into an aerodynamic shape optionally intended to decrease the drag of the projectile. In some embodiments, a sabot has a concave surface at its tip. In some embodiments, a sabot has a concave surface, such as a scoop, present somewhere other than the tip of the sabot. In some embodiments, a surface is present somewhere on the sabot to increase drag on at least a portion of the sabot to facilitate separation of a chain and / or a string from the sabot, such as a scoop, concave surface, or a concave surface at the tip of the sabot. The features of a sabot described in this paragraph, such as concave surfaces on a sabot, may be incorporated into any of the sabot shapes mentioned herein, such as known bullet or sabot shapes. A sabot should be of appropriate dimensions to fit properly within the barrel through which it will be fired, and if the sabot is intended to be fired from a rifled barrel, the sabot should properly contact the lands and grooves. In some embodiments, the sabot is generally shaped according to a known bullet shape, a known sabot shape, a known shot cup (also called a wad) shape. In some embodiments, the sabot is formed into one of the following shapes currently used for bullets: Gl, Ingalls, G2, Aberdeen J projectile, G5, G6, G7, G8, GL, wadcutter, flat-based, boat-tail, Spitzer, or Spitzer boat-tail.

[0061] In some embodiments, a sabot has an outer diameter of 0.5 inches or less. In some embodiments, a sabot has an outer diameter of 0.5 inches or greater. In some embodiments, a sabot has an outer diameter of 0.5 inches or less, and at least one chain or string is in the shape of: a straight chain or string, a circular chain or string, a radial chain or string, a wheel -and-spoke chain or string, a dendritic chain or string, a ball chain or string, or a filled-ball chain or string. In some embodiments, a sabot has an outer diameter of 0.5 inches or greater, and at least one chain or string is in the shape of: a straight chain or string, a circular chain or string, a radial chain or string, a wheel -and-spoke chain or string, a dendritic chain or string, a ball chain or string, or a filled-ball chain or string. In some embodiments, a sabot has an outer diameter of: less than 0.38 inches, 0.38 to 0.5 inches, about 0.30 to about 0.5 inches, or greater than 0.5 inches. In some embodiments, a sabot has an outer diameter of: less than or equal to 12.7 millimeters or greater than or equal to 12.7 millimeters.

[0062] In some embodiments, a material is present in the interior of a simple sabot, a flexible sabot, or a separable sabot, at least partially surrounding or coating a chain and / or a string. In some embodiments, an interior material is useful to decrease movement of chain and / or string within a sabot. In some embodiments, an interior material is at least partially made up of at least one of the following: a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, a polyethylene glycol, a polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a natural filament, a synthetic filament, a wax, a clay, an inorganic material, a ceramic, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a polymeric material, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a polyisoprene, a polyglycolic acid, a polylactic acid, a poly-2hydroxy butyrate, a polycaprolactone, an acrylic polymer, a polyvinylpyrrolidone, a nylon polymer, an aramid polymer, a polyterephthalate, a polyamide, a polyimide, a polysulfide, a polyvinyl alcohol, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyvinyl chloride, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a poly(p-phenylene terephthamide), a polypropylene ethylene, an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer, a polyvinyl formal, a polyvinyl butyral, a polyurethane, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyvinyl acetate, a polyoxymethylene, a phenolic resin, an epoxy resin, a polytetrafluoroethylene, a polyvinylidene fluoride, a polyvinylidene chloride, a silicone rubber, a polycarbonate, a polyetherketone, a polyetheretherketone, a polyetherimide, a polyester, a polysulfone, a polychloroprene, a polyethersulfone, a poly(methyl methacrylate), a polyphenylene oxide, and a polyphenylene ether. In some embodiments, the interior material is at least partially made up of at least one copolymer, wherein the copolymer may be made up of monomers of any material or materials discussed in this document. In some embodiments, the interior material is made up of at least one of the following: a stabilizer, an antistatic agent, a flame retardant, a plasticizer, a lubricant, a slip agent, a curing agent, a foaming agent, a biocide, a fluorophore, and a plasticizer. In some embodiments, the interior material is added by: adding a liquid form of the interior material into the sabot, rotating the sabot, and then allowing or causing the interior material to harden or cure. In some embodiments, the interior material is added by: adding a liquid form of the interior material into the sabot, rotating the sabot, pouring any excess liquid out of the sabot, and then allowing or causing the interior material to harden or cure.

[0063] In some embodiments, a thin layer or sheet of a metal or metal alloy material is present around a sabot. In some embodiments, a thin layer or sheet of a metal or metal alloy material is present around a sabot for at least one of the following reasons: to increase toughness, to increase hardness, to resist moisture penetration into the sabot, or to improve the ability for the sabot to be crimped into a metallic case. In some embodiments, a sabot has at least one of: domes, bumps, ridges, ribs, corrugation, or another feature which may serve to increase the adherence between an interior material and the sabot itself.

[0064] In some embodiments, a polymeric sabot incorporates at least one of: a ring, a skeleton, a or a frame on the interior or exterior of the sabot, wherein the ring, skeleton or frame is optionally made up of a metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, a sabot includes at least one of: corrugation or a rib structure, the ribs being linear, circular, or cylindrical thicker portions of material on the interior or exterior of the sabot. In some embodiments, a skeleton, a frame, corrugation, or a rib structure serves to increase the structural stability of the sabot.

[0065] As used herein, a “simple sabot” is defined as a sabot being made up of at least a lower disk of sabot material, an upper cap of sabot material, and a chain, string, or other linkage being present between the upper and lower disks. In some embodiments, the upper cap of a simple sabot is shaped into a disk. In some embodiments, a simple sabot also includes a sabot wall or walls made up of a cylinder or portions of a cylinder. In some embodiments, the upper cap of a simple sabot is shaped into an aerodynamic or nose cone shape. In some embodiments, a simple sabot is present in a less-lethal projectile. In some embodiments, a simple sabot is present within a metallic case. In some embodiments, the lower disk of a simple sabot is fitted into a metallic case above the flash hole, then a chain and / or a string is added to the case above the lower disk, and an upper cap is fitted into the case above the chain and / or a string. In some embodiments, the upper cap and lower disk of a simple sabot are each between 0.1 and 10 mm in thickness. In some embodiments, the lower disk of a simple sabot is between 0.3 and 3 mm in thickness. In some embodiments, a polymer, a wax, or an adhesive is be used to secure at least one component of a simple sabot within a case.

[0066] FLEXIBLE SABOTS

[0067] As used herein, a “flexible sabot” is defined as a sabot being made up of a tail portion and at least two petals connected to the tail portion by a flexible linkage. In some embodiments, a flexible sabot is present in a less-lethal projectile. The petals and the tail of a flexible sabot may be made up of a flexible material, an inflexible material, or some combination of flexible and inflexible components. For example, the tail may be made up of an inflexible material, while the petals are made up of a flexible material. After leaving a barrel, the petals of a flexible sabot move outward, and the sabot separates from the chain and / or the string.

[0068] In some embodiments, the tail of a flexible sabot is substantially inflexible, and the petals of the sabot are substantially flexible. In some embodiments, the tail of a flexible sabot is substantially flexible, and the petals of the sabot are substantially flexible. In some embodiments, the tail of a flexible sabot is substantially flexible, and the petals of the sabot are substantially inflexible. In some embodiments, the tail and the petals of a flexible sabot are substantially inflexible, and a substantially flexible material makes up the linkage between the tail and the petals. In some embodiments, the tail of a less-lethal projectile sabot is 0.1-7 mm thick. In some embodiments, the tail of a less-lethal projectile sabot is 0.5-3 mm thick.

[0069] Any number of petals may be used herein in a flexible sabot, but petal numbers of 8 or less are preferred for strength and ease of manufacture. In some embodiments, 2 to 8 petals are present in a flexible sabot. In some embodiments, 2 to 4 petals are present in a flexible sabot. In some embodiments, 2 petals are present in a flexible sabot. In some embodiments, 3 petals are present in a flexible sabot. In some embodiments, 4 petals are present in a flexible sabot.

[0070] In some embodiments, the distal end of a flexible sabot, in relation to the tail, terminates in an open tip. In some embodiments, an open tip of a flexible sabot allows air to enter into the interior of the sabot. In some embodiments, an open tip of a flexible sabot does not allow air to enter into the interior of the sabot, due to the presence of an interior material. In some embodiments, the distal end of a flexible sabot, in relation to the tail, terminates in a closed tip. In some embodiments, a flexible sabot is fdled with chain and / or string by flexing the petals outward, depositing the chain and / or the string within the flexible sabot, and allowing the petals to move back to their original position.

[0071] SEPARABLE SABOTS

[0072] As used herein, a “separable sabot” is defined as a sabot being made up of at least two separable sections that are not separable by motion along the firing axis. In some embodiments, a separable sabot is present in a less-lethal projectile. Sections of a separable sabot may be flexible or inflexible. In some embodiments, a separable sabot is held together by one or more protrusions on at least one sabot section that fit into one or more recesses present on at least one other sabot section. A two-piece separable sabot is illustrated in Fig. 6. When the two sabot halves of that illustrated embodiment are fitted together, with the protrusion fitting into the recess, movement of one half away from the other is not allowed along the axis of movement through a barrel. Upon exiting a barrel, the sabot halves are free to move away from the axis of movement through the barrel, and consequently are able to move away from any chain and / or string within the sabot. In some embodiments, a separable sabot is held together by ridges and grooves on at least one sabot section that fit into ridges and grooves present on at least one other sabot section. In some embodiments, the distal end of a separable sabot, in relation to the base, terminates in an open tip. In some embodiments, an open tip of a separable sabot allows air to enter into the interior of the sabot. In some embodiments, an open tip of a separable sabot does not allow air to enter into the interior of the sabot, due to an internal material. In some embodiments, the distal end of a separable sabot, in relation to the base, terminates in a closed tip. In some embodiments, the tail of a less-lethal projectile sabot is 0.1-7 mm thick. In some embodiments, the tail of a less-lethal projectile sabot is 0.5-3 mm thick.

[0073] SOFT SABOTS

[0074] As used herein, a “soft sabot” is defined as a sabot at least partially surrounding a chain and / or a string, wherein the sabot is intended to move with the chain and / or the string through a barrel and then substantially break apart, away from the chain and / or the string, after exiting the barrel. In some embodiments, the breaking apart of the soft sabot occurs before the chain and / or the string strike the target. This type of breaking apart of the sabot material is different from the separation of a separable sabot. In soft sabot embodiments, the sabot material itself substantially breaks apart after exiting the barrel, and this breaking occurs at non-predefmed locations. In some embodiments, a soft sabot is present in a less-lethal projectile.

[0075] In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile including a soft sabot can be produced by the following process: obtaining a negative mold of the desired less-lethal projectile, adding a chain and / or a string into the negative mold, and casting a material in the mold surrounding the chain and / or the string. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile including a soft sabot can be produced by the following process: obtaining a negative mold of the desired less-lethal projectile, optionally casting a thin wall of material inside the mold, adding a chain and / or a string into the negative mold within the interior of the thin wall, and casting a material in the mold surrounding the chain and / or the string.

[0076] CARTRIDGES

[0077] In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is assembled with at least a case and a primer to form a cartridge. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is assembled with at least a case, a propellant, and a primer to form a cartridge. In some embodiments, a propellant of a less-lethal projectile cartridge is smokeless powder. In some embodiments, a propellant of a less-lethal projectile cartridge is black powder. In some embodiments, a cartridge including a less-lethal projectile is intended to be fired from a firearm chambered for a standardized cartridge. In some embodiments, a cartridge is intended to be fired from a firearm chambered for a standardized cartridge, but the primer within the embodiment is not the standard primer used for that standardized cartridge. For example, in a less-lethal projectile cartridge embodiment, wherein the cartridge is intended to be fired from a firearm chambered for 9 mm Parahelium, the primer may be a large pistol primer. Small pistol primers are the standard primers used for 9 mm Parahelium cartridges. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile and / or cartridge is intended to be fired from a firearm chambered for one or more of the following cartridges: .17 HMR, .17 Hornet, .17 Ackley Hornet, .17 Winchester Super Magnum, .17-32 Magnum, .17 VHA, .17 Remington, .17 / 222, .17 Mach, .17 Ackley Improved Bee, .17-357 RG, .17 Remington Fireball, .17 Incinerator, 4.39><39Rmm SPS, 0.204 Ruger, 5 mm Remington Rimfire Magnum, 5.45x39 mm Russian family, .22 Short, .22 Long, .22 Long Rifle, .22 Stinger, 22 Extra Long, 0.297 / 230 Morris Extra Long, .22 Hornet, .22 Rem Automatic, 5.66x39 MPS, .22 Rem Jet, .218 Bee, .219 Zipper, .22 Hornet-K, .220 Swift, .222 Remington, .222 Remington Magnum, .223 Remington, 5.56x45 mm NATO, 5.7x28 mm, .22 TCM, 5.8x42 Chinese, .224 Weatherby Magnum, .225 Winchester, .223 Winchester Super Short Magnum, .223 Ackley Improved, .219 Donaldson Wasp, 0.221 Remington Fireball, 0.22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, 0.244 Remington, 6 mm Remington, 6 mm Whisper, 6 mm PPC, 6 mm Bench Rest Remington, 6x45 mm, 6x47 mm, 6 mm Cheetah, 0.240 Weatherby, 6x62 Freres, 6 mm Norma BR, 6XC Tubb, 6 mm JDJ, 6 mm SAW, 6-250 Walker, 6.17 Spitfire, 6.17 Flash, 6 mm Lee Navy, 0.25 ACP (0.251"), 250 / 3000 Savage, 257 Roberts, 25-06 (0.257"), 0.277, 6.5x55 mm, .260 Remington, 26 Nosier, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5x47 Lapua, .270 Winchester, 6.8, 6.8 SPC, .280 Remington, 7 mm-08 Remington, 7 mm Remington Magnum, 7x57 mm Mauser, 7x64 mm, .30 Luger (7.65x21 mm Luger), .30-30 Win, 30 Herrett, .300 Whisper, .30- 378 Weatherby, 7.63 Mannlicher-Schoenauer, 7.63 Mauser, .30 USA Rimless, .308 Corbon, 0.3- 9 Savage, .30 Kurz, 300 AAC Blackout (7.62x35 mm), 7.5 mm Schmidt-Rubin, .300 Winchester Magnum, .30 Carbine, 309 JDJ, .30-03, .30-06 Springfield, .30-06 JDJ, 0.307 GNR, .308 Winchester (7.62x51 mm NATO), .300 Weatherby Magnum, .30 Army (.30-40 Krag), 7.82 mm Lazzeroni, .303 British, 7.62x39 mm Soviet, 7.62x54mmR, 7.62x25 mm, 7.7x58 mm, .32 ACP, 8x57 mm IS, 0.325 WSM, 8 mm Remington Magnum, .338 Lapua, .338 Norma Magnum, .338 Winchester Magnum, 0.338-378 Weatherby Magnum, 9 mm Parahelium, 9 mm Ultra, 9 mm Bayard Long, 9 mm Browning Long, 9 mm Mauser, 9 mm Winchester Magnum, 9 mm Glisenti, 9><21 mm, 9x23 mm Winchester, 9 mm Mi-Bullet, 9 mm Steyr, .356 Team Smith & Wesson, 9 mm Federal, 9 mmx25 mm Dillon, 9 mm Action Express, .380 ACP (9 mm Short), 9x56 mm Mannlicher-Schoenauer, 9 mmx57 mm Mauser, .38 Super, .38 Special, .357 Magnum, .357 SIG, 0.35 Remington, 9x 18 mm Makarov, 9.3x62 mm, 9.3x64 mm Brenneke, 9.3x72mmR, 9.3x74 mm, .375 H&H Magnum, 9.5x57 mm MannlicherSchonauer (.375 Rimless Nitro Express (RNE)x2 1 / 4), .40 S&W, 10 mm Auto, 0.444 Marlin, .44 S&W Russian, .44 S&W Special, .44 Remington Magnum, .44 Auto Mag, 0.440 Cor-Bon, 44 / 454 JDJ Woodswalker, .45 ACP, .45 GAP, .454 Casull, .45 Long Colt, .455 Webley, .50 BMG, .50 Action Express, or 12.7x 108 mm.

[0078] In some embodiments, a cartridge including a less-lethal projectile is in part made up of a metallic case. In some embodiments, a cartridge including a less-lethal projectile is in part made up of a metallic case, wherein the case is made up of multiple metallic parts of dissimilar composition. In some embodiments, a cartridge including a less-lethal projectile is in part made up of a polymer case. In some embodiments, a cartridge including a less-lethal projectile is in part made up of a polymer portion and in part made up of a metallic portion. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile may be assembled with a primer and a propellant material, wherein the propellant material provides the structural support for the less-lethal projectile and the primer.

[0079] In some embodiments, a cartridge containing a less-lethal projectile contains enough energy within the primer and / or propellant to fire the less-lethal projectile thorough a barrel with a muzzle energy of: 20-280 Joules, 50-220 Joules, 100-150 Joules, or greater than 280 Joules.

[0080] USES OF THE LESS-LETHAL PROJECTILES AND CARTRIDGES

[0081] In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is caused to move through a rifled barrel. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is caused to move through a smoothbore (unrifled) barrel. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is accelerated to a high speed by the action of a high explosive. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is accelerated to a high speed by the action of a low explosive. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is accelerated to a high speed by the action of a compressed gas. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is accelerated to a high speed by the action of an electromagnetic field. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is fired from a firearm. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is fired from a launcher. As used herein, a “launcher” is defined as a device having a barrel and being capable of moving a less-lethal projectile through the barrel, while not being a firearm.

[0082] In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is directed toward: a person, an animal, a vehicle, a drone, or an autonomous vehicle. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is less likely to cause death and / or serious harm compared to a standard bullet. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is intended to change the behavior of or incapacitate a person or an animal. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is intended to disable a vehicle. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is not capable of penetrating one or more of the: fuselage, hull, skin, windows, doors, walls, support structures, or other structures of an aircraft, a ship, a vehicle, or a building. In some embodiments, a less-lethal projectile is capable of both changing the behavior of or incapacitating a human or animal and is not capable of penetrating at least a portion of an aircraft, a ship, a vehicle, or a building.

[0083] ENUMERATED EMBODIMENTS

[0084] 1. A projectile comprising:

[0085] (i) a sabot; and

[0086] (ii) at least one chain, at least one string, or at least one chain and at least one string.

[0087] 2. The projectile of embodiment 1, wherein the sabot has an outer diameter less than or equal to 0.5 inches.

[0088] 3. The projectile of embodiment 1, wherein the sabot has an outer diameter greater than or equal to 0.5 inches.

[0089] 4. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein at least one chain is present and is in the form of a straight chain, a chain maille, a circular chain, a radial chain, a wheel -and-spoke chain, a dendritic chain, a ball chain, a fdled-ball chain, or a hoop chain.

[0090] 5. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-4, wherein at least one weight is connected to at least one chain.

[0091] 6. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein at least one string is present and is in the form of a straight string, a circular string, a radial string, a wheel -and-spoke string, a dendritic string, a ball string, or a fdled-ball string. 7. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1 -6, wherein at least one weight is connected to at least one string.

[0092] 8. The projectile of embodiment 5 or 7, wherein at least one weight comprises a polymeric material, a metal, a metal alloy, an inorganic material, or a ceramic material.

[0093] 9. The projectile of embodiment 1, wherein the sabot comprises at least one of: a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, a polyethylene glycol, a polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a natural filament, a synthetic filament, a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, a wax, a clay, an inorganic material, a ceramic, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a metal, a metal alloy, copper, brass, bronze, silver, a silver alloy, steel, a steel alloy, stainless steel, magnesium, a magnesium alloy, zinc, a zinc alloy, iron, an iron alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, lead, a lead alloy, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, gold, a gold alloy, a polymeric material, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a polyisoprene, a polyglycolic acid, a polylactic acid, poly-2hydroxy butyrate, a polycaprolactone, an acrylic polymer, a polyvinylpyrrolidone, a nylon polymer, an aramid polymer, a polyterephthalate, a polyamide, a polyimide, a polysulfide, a polyvinyl alcohol, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyvinyl chloride, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methyl cellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a poly(p-phenylene terephthamide), a polypropylene ethylene, an acrylonitrilebutadiene- styrene copolymer, a polyvinyl formal, a polyvinyl butyral, a polyurethane, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyvinyl acetate, a polyoxymethylene, a phenolic resin, an epoxy resin, a polytetrafluoroethylene, a poly vinylidene fluoride, a polyvinylidene chloride, a silicone rubber, a polycarbonate, a polyetherketone, a polyetheretherketone, a polyetherimide, a polyester, a polysulfone, a polychloroprene, a poly ethersulfone, a poly(methyl methacrylate), a polyphenylene oxide, and a polyphenylene ether.

[0094] 10. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-9, wherein a riot control agent is present.

[0095] 11. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-10, wherein a riot control agent is present within a container, within the sabot. 12. The projectile of embodiments 10 or 1 1 , wherein the riot control agent comprises at least one of: chloroacetophenone, chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile, chloropicrin, bromobenzylcyanide, and dibenzoxazepined.

[0096] 13. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-12, wherein the sabot is a simple sabot, a flexible sabot, a separable sabot, or a soft sabot.

[0097] 14. The projectile of embodiment 13, wherein the sabot is a soft sabot and comprises at least one of: a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a wax, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a latex, a cellulose, an ethyl cellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, and a silicone rubber.

[0098] 15. The projectile of embodiment any one of embodiments 1-15, wherein the sabot is a separable sabot and comprises at least two separable sections.

[0099] 16. The projectile of embodiment 13, wherein the sabot is a separable sabot and comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 separable sections.

[0100] 17. The projectile of embodiment 13, wherein the sabot is a separable sabot comprising at least two sections, and the sections are not separable by movement along the axis of motion through a barrel.

[0101] 18. The projectile of embodiment 13, wherein the sabot is a flexible sabot and comprises a tail portion and at least two petals connected to the tail portion by a flexible linkage.

[0102] 19. The projectile of embodiment 13, wherein the sabot is a flexible sabot and comprises a tail portion and 2-8 petals connected to the tail portion by a flexible linkage.

[0103] 20. The projectile of embodiments 18 or 19, wherein the sabot tail portion is less than 4 millimeters in thickness, the thickness being the shortest dimension of the tail portion.

[0104] 21. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-20, wherein the sabot is shaped according to one of the following bullet shapes: Gl, Ingalls, G2, Aberdeen J projectile, G5, G6, G7, G8, GL, wadcutter, flat-based, boat-tail, Spitzer, or Spitzer boat-tail. 22. The projectile of any one of embodiments 15-21, wherein the sabot further comprises a closed tip.

[0105] 23. The projectile of any one of embodiments 15-21, wherein the sabot further comprises an open tip.

[0106] 24. The projectile of any one of embodiments 15-21, wherein an interior material is present in the interior space of a sabot and the interior material at least partially surrounds a chain or a string.

[0107] 25. The projectile of embodiment 24, wherein the interior material comprises at least one of: a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, a polyethylene glycol, a polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a wax, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, and a silicone rubber.

[0108] 26. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-25, wherein at least one chain is present, and each chain link present does not exceed 1.0 mm in any dimension.

[0109] 27. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-25, wherein at least one chain is present, and each chain link present does not exceed 1.6 mm in any dimension.

[0110] 28. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-25, wherein at least one chain is present, and each chain link present does not exceed 3.0 mm in any dimension.

[0111] 29. The projectile of any one of embodiments 1-28, wherein the projectile is of an acceptable size to be fired from a firearm chambered for one or more of the following standardized cartridges: .17 HMR, .17 Hornet, .17 Ackley Hornet, .17 Winchester Super Magnum, .17-32 Magnum, .17 VHA, .17 Remington, .17 / 222, .17 Mach, .17 Ackley Improved Bee, .17-357 RG, .17 Remington Fireball, .17 Incinerator, 4.39><39Rmm SPS, 0.204 Ruger, 5 mm Remington Rimfire Magnum, 5.45x39 mm Russian family, .22 Short, .22 Long, .22 Long Rifle, .22 Stinger, 22 Extra Long, 0.297 / 230 Morris Extra Long, .22 Hornet, .22 Rem Automatic, 5.66x39 MPS, .22 Rem Jet, .218 Bee, .219 Zipper, .22 Homet-K, .220 Swift, .222 Remington, .222 Remington Magnum, .223 Remington, 5.56x45 mm NATO, 5.7x28 mm, .22 TCM, 5.8x42 Chinese, .224 Weatherby Magnum, .225 Winchester, .223 Winchester Super Short Magnum, .223 Ackley Improved, .219 Donaldson Wasp, 0.221 Remington Fireball, 0.22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, 0.244 Remington, 6 mm Remington, 6 mm Whisper, 6 mm PPC, 6 mm Bench Rest Remington, 6x45 mm, 6x47 mm, 6 mm Cheetah, 0.240 Weatherby, 6x62 Freres, 6 mm Norma BR, 6XC Tubb, 6 mm JDJ, 6 mm SAW, 6-250 Walker, 6.17 Spitfire, 6.17 Flash, 6 mm Lee Navy, 0.25 ACP (0.251"), 250 / 3000 Savage, 257 Roberts, 25-06 (0.257"), 0.277, 6.5x55 mm, .260 Remington, 26 Nosier, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5x47 Lapua, .270 Winchester, 6.8, 6.8 SPC, .280 Remington, 7 mm-08 Remington, 7 mm Remington Magnum, 7x57 mm Mauser, 7x64 mm, .30 Luger (7.65x21 mm Luger), .30-30 Win, 30 Herrett, .300 Whisper, .30-378 Weatherby, 7.63 Mannlicher-Schoenauer, 7.63 Mauser, .30 USA Rimless, .308 Corbon, 0.3-9 Savage, .30 Kurz, 300 AAC Blackout (7.62x35 mm), 7.5 mm Schmidt-Rubin, .300 Winchester Magnum, .30 Carbine, 309 JDJ, .30-03, .30-06 Springfield, .30-06 JDJ, 0.307 GNR, .308 Winchester (7.62x51 mm NATO), .300 Weatherby Magnum, .30 Army (.30-40 Krag), 7.82 mm Lazzeroni, .303 British, 7.62x39 mm Soviet, 7.62x54mmR, 7.62x25 mm, 7.7x58 mm, .32 ACP, 8x57 mm IS, 0.325 WSM, 8 mm Remington Magnum, .338 Lapua, .338 Norma Magnum, .338 Winchester Magnum, 0.338-378 Weatherby Magnum, 9 mm Parabellum, 9 mm Ultra, 9 mm Bayard Long, 9 mm Browning Long, 9 mm Mauser, 9 mm Winchester Magnum, 9 mm Glisenti, 9x21 mm, 9x23 mm Winchester, 9 mm Mi-Bullet, 9 mm Steyr, .356 Team Smith & Wesson, 9 mm Federal, 9 mmx25 mm Dillon, 9 mm Action Express, .380 ACP (9 mm Short), 9x56 mm Mannlicher- Schoenauer, 9 mmx57 mm Mauser, .38 Super, .38 Special, .357 Magnum, .357 SIG, 0.35 Remington, 9x18 mm Makarov, 9.3 x62 mm, 9.3x64 mm Brenneke, 9.3x72mmR, 9.3x74 mm, .375 H&H Magnum, 9.5x57 mm MannlicherSchonauer (.375 Rimless Nitro Express (RNE)x2 1 / 4), .40 S&W, 10 mm Auto, 0.444 Marlin, .44 S&W Russian, .44 S&W Special, .44 Remington Magnum, .44 Auto Mag, 0.440 Cor-Bon, 44 / 454 JDJ Woodswalker, .45 ACP, .45 GAP, .454 Casull, .45 Long Colt, .455 Webley, .50 BMG, .50 Action Express, or 12.7x108 mm.

[0112] 30. A cartridge wherein the projectile of any one of embodiments 1-29 is assembled with a primer and a metallic case.

[0113] 31. A cartridge wherein the projectile of any one of embodiments 1-29 is assembled with a primer, a propellant, and a metallic case. 32. The cartridge of embodiment 30 or 31 , wherein sufficient primer explosive and optional smokeless powder is present in the cartridge to propel the projectile from a barrel with a kinetic energy of 20-280 Joules.

[0114] 33. The cartridge of embodiment 30 or 31, wherein sufficient primer explosive and optional smokeless powder is present in the cartridge to propel the projectile from a barrel with a kinetic energy of 50-220 Joules.

[0115] 34. A process comprising the following steps:

[0116] (i) loading a projectile into a firearm or a launcher; and

[0117] (ii) firing the projectile from the firearm or the launcher, ii) wherein the projectile is the projectile of any one of embodiments 1-33.

[0118] 35. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the sabot substantially separates from the at least one chain, at least one string, or at least one chain and at least one string after exiting the barrel and before striking a target.

[0119] 36. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the kinetic energy of the projectile is 20-280 joules upon exiting a barrel of the firearm or the launcher.

[0120] 37. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the firearm further comprises a rifled barrel.

[0121] 38. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the firearm further comprises a smoothbore barrel.

[0122] 39. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the projectile is fired by a high explosive.

[0123] 40. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the projectile is fired by a low explosive.

[0124] 41. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the projectile is fired by a compressed gas.

[0125] 42. The process of embodiment 34, wherein the projectile is fired through the use of an electromagnetic field.

[0126] EXAMPLES

[0127] Example 1: A Flexible-Sabot Single-Chain Projectile Compatible with a Rifled Firearm Chambered for 9 mm Parabellum

[0128] In this illustrative example, a less-lethal projectile is made up of a flexible sabot containing a single chain. The flexible sabot is made up of polypropylene, includes 4 petals, and is generally in the shape of a G1 bullet shape. The single chain is in the form of a spot-welded circular chain and is made up of a steel cable chain. The less-lethal projectile is assembled with a metallic case conforming to the dimensions necessary to be fired from a firearm chambered for 9 mm Parabellum. A small pistol primer and smokeless powder are present within the cartridge. A sufficient amount of smokeless powder is present to propel the less-lethal projectile from a 5” barrel with 120 Joules of energy at the muzzle.

[0129] Example 2: A Separable-Sabot Double-Chain Projectile Compatible with a Firearm Chambered for .38 Special

[0130] In this illustrative example, a less-lethal projectile is made up of a separable sabot containing two chains. The separable sabot is made up of three identical sabot pieces that are each made up of an epoxy resin, and the sabot is generally in the shape of a G1 bullet shape. The chains are both in the form of spot-welded radial chains and each chain is made up of brass cable chain. The less-lethal projectile is assembled with a metallic case conforming to the dimensions necessary to be fired from a firearm chambered for .38 special. A small magnum pistol primer is present within the cartridge, without gunpowder.

[0131] Example 3: A Flexible-Sabot Single String Projectile Compatible with a Smoothbore Launcher

[0132] In this illustrative example, a less-lethal projectile is made up of a flexible sabot containing a single string. The flexible sabot is made up of polypropylene, includes 4 petals, and is generally in the shape of a G1 bullet shape. The single chain is in the form of a Nylon wheel- and-spoke string, having weights attached at all intersections within the string. The less-lethal projectile is assembled with a metallic case conforming to the dimensions necessary to be fired from a firearm chambered for 40 mm cartridges. A primer and smokeless powder are present within the cartridge. A sufficient amount of smokeless powder is present to propel the less-lethal projectile from a 14” barrel with 220 Joules of energy at the muzzle.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A projectile comprising:(i) a sabot; and(ii) at least one chain, at least one string, or at least one chain and at least one string.

2. The projectile of claim 1, wherein the sabot has an outer diameter less than or equal to 0.5 inches.

3. The projectile of claim 1, wherein the sabot has an outer diameter greater than or equal to 0.5 inches.

4. The projectile of any one of claims 1-3, wherein at least one chain is present and is in the form of a straight chain, a chain maille, a circular chain, a radial chain, a wheel -and-spoke chain, a dendritic chain, a ball chain, a filled-ball chain, or a hoop chain.

5. The projectile of any one of claims 1-4, wherein at least one weight is connected to at least one chain.

6. The projectile of any one of claims 1-5, wherein at least one string is present and is in the form of a straight string, a circular string, a radial string, a wheel -and-spoke string, a dendritic string, a ball string, or a filled-ball string.

7. The projectile of any one of claims 1-6, wherein at least one weight is connected to at least one string.

8. The projectile of claim 5 or 7, wherein at least one weight comprises a polymeric material, a metal, a metal alloy, an inorganic material, or a ceramic material.

9. The projectile of claim 1, wherein the sabot comprises at least one of: a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, a polyethylene glycol, a polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a natural filament, a synthetic filament, a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, a wax, a clay, an inorganic material, a ceramic, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a metal, a metal alloy, copper, brass, bronze, silver, a silver alloy, steel, a steel alloy, stainless steel, magnesium, a magnesium alloy, zinc, a zinc alloy, iron, an iron alloy, nickel, a nickel alloy, lead, a lead alloy, aluminum, an aluminum alloy, titanium, a titanium alloy, gold, a gold alloy, apolymeric material, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a polyisoprene, a polyglycolic acid, a polylactic acid, poly-2hydroxy butyrate, a polycaprolactone, an acrylic polymer, a polyvinylpyrrolidone, a nylon polymer, an aramid polymer, a polyterephthalate, a polyamide, a polyimide, a polysulfide, a polyvinyl alcohol, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polystyrene, a polyvinyl chloride, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, a polyethylene terephthalate, a polybutylene terephthalate, a poly(p-phenylene terephthamide), a polypropylene ethylene, an acrylonitrilebutadiene- styrene copolymer, a polyvinyl formal, a polyvinyl butyral, a polyurethane, a polyacrylonitrile, a polyvinyl acetate, a polyoxymethylene, a phenolic resin, an epoxy resin, a polytetrafluoroethylene, a polyvinylidene fluoride, a polyvinylidene chloride, a silicone rubber, a polycarbonate, a polyetherketone, a polyetheretherketone, a poly etherimide, a polyester, a polysulfone, a polychloroprene, a poly ethersulfone, a poly(methyl methacrylate), a polyphenylene oxide, and a polyphenylene ether.

10. The projectile of any one of claims 1-9, wherein a riot control agent is present.

11. The projectile of any one of claims 1-10, wherein a riot control agent is present within a container, within the sabot.

12. The projectile of claims 10 or 11, wherein the riot control agent comprises at least one of chloroacetophenone, chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile, chloropicrin, bromobenzylcyanide, and dibenzoxazepined.

13. The projectile of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the sabot is a simple sabot, a flexible sabot, a separable sabot, or a soft sabot.

14. The projectile of claim 13, wherein the sabot is a soft sabot and comprises at least one of a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a wax, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, and a silicone rubber.

15. The projectile of claim any one of claims 1-15, wherein the sabot is a separable sabot and comprises at least two separable sections.

16. The projectile of claim 13, wherein the sabot is a separable sabot and comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 separable sections.

17. The projectile of claim 13, wherein the sabot is a separable sabot comprising at least two sections, and the sections are not separable by movement along the axis of motion through a barrel.

18. The projectile of claim 13, wherein the sabot is a flexible sabot and comprises a tail portion and at least two petals connected to the tail portion by a flexible linkage.

19. The projectile of claim 13, wherein the sabot is a flexible sabot and comprises a tail portion and 2-8 petals connected to the tail portion by a flexible linkage.

20. The projectile of claims 18 or 19, wherein the sabot tail portion is less than 4 millimeters in thickness, the thickness being the shortest dimension of the tail portion.

21. The projectile of any one of claims 1-20, wherein the sabot is shaped according to one of the following bullet shapes: Gl, Ingalls, G2, Aberdeen J projectile, G5, G6, G7, G8, GL, wadcutter, flat-based, boat-tail, Spitzer, or Spitzer boat-tail.

22. The projectile of any one of claims 15-21, wherein the sabot further comprises a closed tip.

23. The projectile of any one of claims 15-21, wherein the sabot further comprises an open tip.

24. The projectile of any one of claims 15-21, wherein an interior material is present in the interior space of a sabot and the interior material at least partially surrounds a chain or a string.

25. The projectile of claim 24, wherein the interior material comprises at least one of: a fat, an oil, a gelatin, a gum, sawdust, a dextrin, a malto-dextrin, a polysaccharide, karaya gum, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, acacia gum, welan gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, casein, maize, beeswax, elastin, collagen, albumin, fibrin, a polyethylene glycol, a polypropylene glycol, carnauba wax, a polysaccharide gum, mucilage, a gum arabic, shellac, a starch, a polymer foam, an elastomer, a wax, a protein, zein, chitosan, a lignin, a lignin derivative, a rubber, a vulcanized rubber, a biopolymer, a latex, a cellulose, an ethylcellulose, a methylcellulose, a hydroxy methylcellulose, a hydroxypropylcellulose, a hydroxymethylpropylcellulose, an alginate, and a silicone rubber.

26. The projectile of any one of claims 1-25, wherein at least one chain is present, and each chain link present does not exceed 1.0 mm in any dimension.

27. The projectile of any one of claims 1-25, wherein at least one chain is present, and each chain link present does not exceed 1.6 mm in any dimension.

28. The projectile of any one of claims 1-25, wherein at least one chain is present, and each chain link present does not exceed 3.0 mm in any dimension.

29. The projectile of any one of claims 1-28, wherein the projectile is of an acceptable size to be fired from a firearm chambered for one or more of the following standardized cartridges: .17 HMR, .17 Hornet, .17 Ackley Hornet, .17 Winchester Super Magnum, .17-32 Magnum, .17 VHA, .17 Remington, .17 / 222, .17 Mach, .17 Ackley Improved Bee, .17-357 RG, .17 Remington Fireball, .17 Incinerator, 4.39*39Rmm SPS, 0.204 Ruger, 5 mm Remington Rimfire Magnum, 5.45*39 mm Russian family, .22 Short, .22 Long, .22 Long Rifle, .22 Stinger, 22 Extra Long, 0.297 / 230 Morris Extra Long, .22 Hornet, .22 Rem Automatic, 5.66*39 MPS, .22 Rem Jet, .218 Bee, .219 Zipper, .22 Homet-K, .220 Swift, .222 Remington, .222 Remington Magnum, .223 Remington, 5.56*45 mm NATO, 5.7*28 mm, .22 TCM, 5.8*42 Chinese, .224 Weatherby Magnum, .225 Winchester, .223 Winchester Super Short Magnum, .223 Ackley Improved, .219 Donaldson Wasp, 0.221 Remington Fireball, 0.22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, 0.244 Remington, 6 mm Remington, 6 mm Whisper, 6 mm PPC, 6 mm Bench Rest Remington, 6*45 mm, 6*47 mm, 6 mm Cheetah, 0.240 Weatherby, 6*62 Freres, 6 mm Norma BR, 6XC Tubb, 6 mm JDJ, 6 mm SAW, 6-250 Walker, 6.17 Spitfire, 6.17 Flash, 6 mm Lee Navy, 0.25 ACP (0.251"), 250 / 3000 Savage, 257 Roberts, 25-06 (0.257"), 0.277, 6.5*55 mm, .260 Remington, 26 Nosier, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5*47 Lapua, .270 Winchester, 6.8, 6.8 SPC, .280 Remington, 7 mm-08 Remington, 7 mm Remington Magnum, 7*57 mm Mauser, 7*64 mm, .30 Luger (7.65*21 mm Luger), .30-30 Win, 30 Herrett, .300 Whisper, .30-378 Weatherby, 7.63 Mannlicher-Schoenauer, 7.63 Mauser, .30 USA Rimless, .308 Corbon, 0.3-9 Savage, .30 Kurz, 300 AAC Blackout (7.62*35 mm), 7.5 mm Schmidt-Rubin, .300 Winchester Magnum, .30 Carbine, 309 JDJ, .30-03, .30-06 Springfield, .30-06 JDJ, 0.307 GNR, .308 Winchester (7.62*51 mm NATO), .300 Weatherby Magnum, .30 Army (.30-40 Krag), 7.82 mm Lazzeroni, .303 British, 7.62*39 mm Soviet, 7.62*54mmR, 7.62*25 mm, 7.7*58 mm, .32 ACP, 8*57 mm IS, 0.325 WSM, 8 mm Remington Magnum, .338 Lapua, .338 Norma Magnum, .338 Winchester Magnum, 0.338-378 Weatherby Magnum, 9 mm Parahelium, 9 mm Ultra, 9 mm Bayard Long, 9 mm Browning Long,9 mm Mauser, 9 mm Winchester Magnum, 9 mm Glisenti, 9x21 mm, 9x23 mm Winchester, 9 mm Mi-Bullet, 9 mm Steyr, .356 Team Smith & Wesson, 9 mm Federal, 9 mmx25 mm Dillon, 9 mm Action Express, .380 ACP (9 mm Short), 9x56 mm Mannlicher-Schoenauer, 9 mmx57 mm Mauser, .38 Super, .38 Special, .357 Magnum, .357 SIG, 0.35 Remington, 9x 18 mm Makarov, 9.3x62 mm, 9.3x64 mm Brenneke, 9.3x72mmR, 9.3x74 mm, .375 H&H Magnum, 9.5x57 mm MannlicherSchonauer (.375 Rimless Nitro Express (RNE)x2 1 / 4), .40 S&W, 10 mm Auto, 0.444 Marlin, .44 S&W Russian, .44 S&W Special, .44 Remington Magnum, .44 Auto Mag, 0.440 Cor-Bon, 44 / 454 JDJ Woodswalker, .45 ACP, .45 GAP, .454 Casull, .45 Long Colt, .455 Webley, .50 BMG, .50 Action Express, or 12.7x 108 mm.

30. A cartridge wherein the projectile of any one of claims 1-29 is assembled with a primer and a metallic case.

31. A cartridge wherein the projectile of any one of claims 1-29 is assembled with a primer, a propellant, and a metallic case.

32. The cartridge of claim 30 or 31, wherein sufficient primer explosive and optional smokeless powder is present in the cartridge to propel the projectile from a barrel with a kinetic energy of 20-280 Joules.

33. The cartridge of claim 30 or 31, wherein sufficient primer explosive and optional smokeless powder is present in the cartridge to propel the projectile from a barrel with a kinetic energy of 50-220 Joules.

34. A process comprising the following steps:(i) loading a projectile into a firearm or a launcher; and(ii) firing the projectile from the firearm or the launcher, ii) wherein the projectile is the projectile of any one of claims 1-33.

35. The process of claim 34, wherein the sabot substantially separates from the at least one chain, at least one string, or at least one chain and at least one string after exiting the barrel and before striking a target.

36. The process of claim 34, wherein the kinetic energy of the projectile is 20-280 joules upon exiting a barrel of the firearm or the launcher.

37. The process of claim 34, wherein the firearm further comprises a rifled barrel.

38. The process of claim 34, wherein the firearm further comprises a smoothbore barrel.

39. The process of claim 34, wherein the projectile is fired by a high explosive.

40. The process of claim 34, wherein the projectile is fired by a low explosive,41. The process of claim 34, wherein the projectile is fired by a compressed gas.

42. The process of claim 34, wherein the projectile is fired through the use of an electromagnetic field.

Images