| Cordite was the result of the experimentation of British scientists to produce a reliable smokeless powder. They found that a mixture of 58% nitroglycerine, 37% gun cotton and 5% mineral jelly produced an effective solution. It was produced in fine strings and given the name cordite. This powder did not produce large amounts of fouling or excessive pressures, making it very reliable. The old black powder Cartridge, named SA Ball Magazine Rifle Mk 1, was renamed Cartridge SA Ball cordite 303 Mk 1. This Aammution was used well into the fifty's and is widely available on the surplus market. Most of it is cheap and good for shooting provided that you clean your rifle well afterwards as it is highly corrosive. |