Balloon Buster Bullets

11 October 1999, 07:08 PM

I need to know what kind of bullets were loaded in both.303 Enfield and 8X57 Mauser cartridges for taking down balloons.
I read in War Birds that the Germans used bullets with a phosphorus incendiary compound and flat nosed bullets against aeroplanes. That must have been their balloon loading. But, what were they called? On another thread that I can't find the names of the .303 rounds were mentioned. Buckingham was one, I think.

11 October 1999, 10:12 PM

Not sure what the round were called but I know that a lot of pilots wouldn't fly with them unless they had written orders that they could show to the capturing enemy in case they got shot down. These particular types of bullets were outlawed for general use, so I understand

12 October 1999, 12:34 AM

From The Australian Flying Corps by F M Cutlack

"The original tracer bullet was filled with a magnesium compound which left a trail of light or smoke and was intended soley as a guide for aiming the gun. It was very effective for igniting petrol tanks. Later was introduced the Buckingham incendiary bullet, which contained phosphorus. This would not only trace satisfactorily but was particularly effective as an incendiary bullet against Zeppelins, kite-balloons and aircraft petrol tanks. Explosive bullets were the Pomeroy and the Brock. There (sic) were used chiefly against Zeppelins."

I hope that helps some.

Cheers