👉 A dry weapon, also known as a dry firearm or simply a "dry," is a type of handheld firearm that uses a solid propellant, typically black powder, to ignite the gunpowder charge within the cartridge. Unlike liquid or smokeless firearms, which rely on liquid propellants and specialized ignition systems, dry weapons store their propellant in a solid form within the cartridge casing. When the trigger is pulled, a small amount of the solid propellant ignites, creating a rapid combustion reaction that forces the projectile out of the barrel. This design makes dry weapons simpler in construction, often lighter and more portable, but they generally offer less accuracy and range compared to their liquid or smokeless counterparts. Historically significant in early firearms, dry weapons remain a popular choice for historical reenactments and certain niche applications due to their simplicity and reliability.
