semiarmourpiercing

Semiarmourpiercing, often abbreviated as SAP, is a type of projectile designed to penetrate lightly armored targets. Unlike full armour-piercing rounds which are designed to defeat heavy armor plating, SAP projectiles have a less robust construction and are typically intended for use against targets such as lightly armored vehicles, engine compartments, or fuel tanks. The projectile's construction usually involves a hardened steel core or a steel jacket that is thicker and harder than that of a standard full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet. This allows it to retain some of its mass and structural integrity upon impact, enabling it to penetrate a limited thickness of armor. However, SAP rounds are not designed to defeat heavily armored threats like main battle tanks. Their effectiveness is limited by the thickness and hardness of the armor they encounter. In some contexts, SAP projectiles may also incorporate a bursting charge or incendiary component, adding an explosive or fire-starting element to their destructive capability after penetration. The development of SAP ammunition reflects a balance between the need for armor penetration and the desire for versatility in engaging a wider range of targets than standard ball ammunition.