Terminology: Wadcutter

by
posted on October 31, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wiley-clapp.jpg

A wadcutter is a style of bullet that is almost completely cylindrical in shape. While there have been a few jacketed wadcutters, the majority are lead. Most commercially loaded wadcutters are swaged from lead alloys and some even have a hollow base. Cast lead wadcutters are often double-ended, particularly those used by handloaders.

As part of the wadcutter design, the entire length of the bullet bears on the rifled barrel, allowing for an easy transition from cylinder to barrel. Wadcutters are usually associated with low velocity and match accuracy.

More often than not, wadcutters get fired at paper targets with precisely printed scoring rings. They get their name from their ability to cut a sharply defined plug, circle or wad of paper at the point of impact. Round-nosed bullets give a less visually apparent hole and possibly loss of a point when the bullet hits near a scoring ring. Wadcutters provide a true score.

Latest

Springfield Garrison Target 01
Springfield Garrison Target 01

Heirloom Accuracy: The Springfield Armory Garrison Target

Springfield Armory expanded its "heirloom-quality" line of Garrison 1911s with an all-new target model chambered in either 9 mm or .45 ACP.

Ready For Action: The Arms of the Paramarines

As an elite World War II unit whose members could be expected to fight as soon as they landed, Marine Corps paratroopers, unofficially known as “Paramarines,” required a special complement of firearms capable of being deployed immediately.

Ruger Celebrates 250 Years of American Liberty

Ruger has officially launched its 250th Anniversary Series of firearms, commemorating the United States Semiquincentennial and celebrating the company’s deep roots in American manufacturing.

Review: Armasight Contractor Lite 320

With processing power advancing and manufacturing costs decreasing, thermal technology continues to become more accessible. Armasight’s newest release, the Contractor 320 Lite, reflects this trend.

Perfecting The Remington 870 Shotgun With Vang Comp Systems

One American Rifleman contributor let Vang Comp Systems work its magic on a well-used Remington 870 Police Magnum shotgun.

Gunsite Academy Celebrates 50 Years

2026 marks the 50th anniversary of Gunsite, an elite training establishment in Arizona founded by Lt. Col. Jeff Cooper to help train Americans in the pragmatic use of firearms for personal protection.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.