What is the relationship between band thickness, band taper and velocity?
The basics:
-Draw weight and band thickness are variables that change with the physical(cut or taper) dimensions of the latex in the system.
-Thinner latex is generally preferred for lighter ammo and thicker for heavier ammo...but not always.
- Tapered bands shoot faster than non tapered bands- provided same surface area of working latex.
-Tapered bands generally have less draw weight for equivalent speed.
-All bands generate velocity by their ability to retract quickly to their relaxed position.
-Latex is able to produce this energy through the generation of heat. When band are drawn out, the internal friction produces heat and it is that latent heat that allows the material to snap back to its relaxed length. The warmer the ambient temperature, the less this effect comes into play. The colder the more this can be witnessed in performance loss.
- More draw weight does not necessarily generate more velocity. Bands must be matched to the mass of the projectile for best performance.
Check out the video in the attached article for a real world example of the above factors all working together.
Have fun and be sure to visit our education site at www.simpleshot.academy