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Gauss Gun
Generic term for kinetic weapon that uses a magnetic charge to accelerate a projectile. Hand-held models tend to use a simple small calibre (usually 2 to 4 mm) high density solid ferrous slug which is accelerated to hypersonic velocity. Some variants use a combination of explosive and magnetic accelerant. These weapons rely on a very high rate of fire to make them effective. Large vehicle or ship-mounted gauss guns with open barrels are called rail guns.
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Development Notes
Text by M. Alan Kazlev
Initially published on 01 November 2001.
Initially published on 01 November 2001.
