Talk:Small arms ammunition pressure testing

HOW are the maximum pressures established?
The article states how pressure is measured but not how the maximum pressure for any cartridge is established. Imagine there was no 9mm Luger and they'd first test it. So sure they say test as written in the article and get some reading depending on how much powder was used and so on. How do they say "oh this is the maximum that this cartridge may be loaded to"? What's the method, the algorithm? — Preceding unsigned comment added by 188.194.79.94 (talk) 18:48, 10 August 2013 (UTC)


 * It is a design choice. Historically the strength of the locking mechanism was a limiting factor. The design and strength of the cartridge case is also a limiting factor. Designers strive to avoid pressure induced plastic deformation of the employed chambers and cases. --Francis Flinch (talk) 08:01, 12 August 2013 (UTC)


 * Sorry, but that doesn't seem true - because the maximum isn't set by the designer of the round but the CPI. Look at the 7x57 Mauser for example, it was historically used with much more pressure than what the CPI now says should be the maximum, so that's not an argument at all! The chambers and cases are tough enough to withstand much more pressure than CPI says should be maximum, as historically proven. So why isn't the decided maximum higher? Who makes these decisions and based on which facts, which method, which algorithm? — Preceding unsigned comment added by 188.194.79.94 (talk) 14:57, 12 August 2013 (UTC)

It is "C.I.P." not CPI. C.I.P. do not set the maximum pressure authoritatively. First of all new weapons and new calibers are created by manufacturers! Then they propose their new caliber to C.I.P. for approval and inclusion to the list. C.I.P. takes the value given by the manufacturer who is supposed to have made all necessary calculation and testing to ensure security. On his side C.I.P. also check if the gun can withstand usually 2 rounds with 25% over-pressure. There may be also other verification prior to accepting new calibers, I am not part of these working groups. Michel Deby - Member of the Belgian delegation to the C.I.P. — Preceding unsigned comment added by Mdeby (talk • contribs) 14:07, 16 August 2014 (UTC)