This engaging and accessible book explains the scientific principles
behind guns, both ancient and modern. It connects their evolution to
advances in science, as well as tracing the developments of projectiles
and propellants. It is not limited to small arms but also looks at the
science of enormous guns such the Paris Gun, for example, and reviews
the efforts to build a gun to launch projectiles into space. Extremely
fast guns are also covered, such as two-stage guns and rail guns.
Further, the book provides insight into the science of terminal
ballistics and wound ballistics as well as the challenging subject of
gun control. It is full of interesting facts for all who are curious
about the science and history of guns, as well as those for whom the gun
is an accessory of their profession.