13x55 mm: A Cartridge for Heavy Machine Guns
The 13x55 mm is a cartridge designed for heavy machine guns, primarily used in anti-material and anti-tank roles. Its large caliber and high-powered propellant make it an effective round against hardened targets.
History
The 13x55 mm cartridge was developed in the Soviet Union during the Cold War era, specifically for use in heavy machine guns such as the NSV and KPV. The cartridge was designed to penetrate armor and damage or destroy fortifications, making it a valuable asset on the battlefield.
Design and Specifications
Cartridge Dimensions
The 13x55 mm cartridge has a length of 55 mm and a diameter of 13 mm. The case is bottlenecked, with a shoulder diameter of 14.5 mm. The rim diameter is 18 mm, and the rim thickness is 1.5 mm.
Bullet Specifications
The bullet used in the 13x55 mm cartridge is typically a steel-core, tungsten carbide, or hardened steel design. The bullet weight ranges from 50 to 60 grams, with a muzzle velocity of around 850-900 m/s. The bullet has a flat, blunt nose and is typically 38-40 mm in length.
Propellant
The propellant used in the 13x55 mm cartridge is a slow-burning, high-energy type, designed to provide a consistent and predictable muzzle velocity.
Performance
The 13x55 mm cartridge is capable of penetrating up to 20 mm of armor at a range of 500 meters, making it an effective round against lightly armored vehicles and fortifications. The cartridge also has a maximum range of around 2,000 meters, making it suitable for long-range engagements.
Firearms
The 13x55 mm cartridge is typically used in heavy machine guns such as the NSV and KPV, which are designed to provide suppressive fire against enemy positions. These machine guns are often mounted on tripods or vehicles, allowing them to be used in a variety of roles.
Conclusion
The 13x55 mm cartridge is a powerful and effective round, designed for use in heavy machine guns against hardened targets. Its large caliber and high-powered propellant make it an valuable asset on the battlefield, and its penetration and range characteristics make it suitable for a variety of roles.
