Phil N Alward

US Patent:

57184348, Feb 17, 1998

Filed:

Apr 10, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/420320

Inventors:

Phil N. Alward - Allendale NJ

Assignee:

Wilderness Expeditions, Inc. - Hawthorne NJ

International Classification:

F41J 112

US Classification:

273410

Abstract:

A bullet trap for use in pistol and rifle ranges employs one or more deflecting plates situated so that bullets entering the bullet trap strike the deflecting plates at an angle of between 15 and 20 degrees. The low angle of impact reduces wear and pitting of the deflecting plates which would occur if higher impact angles were employed, and reduces the production of airborne lead particles. The deflecting plates include curved portions which direct bullets toward a back wall and a final impact plate. A liquid lubricant spray mist is employed which coats the bullet trap surfaces, further reducing wear to bullet trap components. The lubricant mist also traps airborne lead particles and carries them to a collection tray for reprocessing. Spent bullets are also collected in the collection tray. Leading edges of the deflecting plates are hardened to better withstand impact with bullets and employ a unique geometry which splits bullets with a minimum of lead dust production.