REVOLVER CANNON Meaning and
Definition
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A revolver cannon is a type of aircraft-mounted gun that is designed to rapidly fire a high volume of projectiles. It is characterized by its rotating cylinder, similar to that of a revolver handgun, which houses multiple chambers or barrels. This rotating mechanism allows for quick succession of firing, as each chamber is individually loaded with a projectile before being aligned with the gun barrel.
The main advantage of a revolver cannon is its ability to achieve a high rate of fire due to its revolving cylinder design. This allows for continuous and rapid firing, enabling the weapon to unleash a torrent of projectiles in a short amount of time. The firing rate can vary, typically ranging from several hundred to thousands of rounds per minute, depending on the specific model.
Revolver cannons are commonly used in military aircraft, particularly as aircraft cannons. Their high rate of fire and compact size make them suitable for aerial combat situations, providing rapid and sustained firepower against enemy aircraft or ground targets. Additionally, their revolving chamber design reduces the chances of jamming, further enhancing their reliability during intense combat scenarios.
Overall, the revolver cannon’s distinctive feature of a rotating cylinder sets it apart from other types of cannons. Its rapid-fire capability, coupled with reliability and compactness, makes it a valuable weapon system in military aviation engagements.
Etymology of REVOLVER CANNON
The word "revolver" originates from the Latin word "revolvere", which means "to turn back" or "to roll back". It was first used in reference to a handgun with a rotating cylinder that allows multiple rounds to be fired without reloading. The term "cannon" comes from the Old Italian word "cannone" or "canna", meaning "tube" or "cane". It was initially used to describe large, heavy firearms with a long barrel designed to fire explosive projectiles. When combined, "revolver cannon" refers to a type of cannon that features a rotating cylinder, similar to a revolver handgun, allowing it to fire multiple rounds in quick succession.
