Projectile deflection from hard surfaces is a common phenomenon in ballistics. The angle of impact, the projectile’s composition and velocity, and the target surface’s hardness and texture all influence the trajectory of a deflected projectile. For instance, a full metal jacket bullet striking a concrete wall at a shallow angle is more likely to be deflected than a hollow point impacting the same surface perpendicularly.
Understanding projectile deflection is crucial in various fields. Law enforcement and military personnel must consider this possibility when engaging in tactical situations. Construction workers and material scientists benefit from this knowledge when designing protective barriers and selecting appropriate building materials. Historically, awareness of this physical interaction has influenced battlefield tactics and defensive fortifications, evolving alongside advancements in weaponry and protective armor.
