- 01: Introduction to Training CD and e-Learning
- 02: History of Firearms Identification
- 03: Propellants, Ammunition, and Firearms Development
- 04: Manufacture of Firearms
- 05: The Manufacture of Modern Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Handling Procedures
- 07: Instrumentation, Equipment, and Facilities
- Imaging Equipment
- Field Support Equipment
- Computer Based Technologies
- Firing Facilities
Water Recovery Tank
Home > Instrumentation, Equipment, and Facilities > Firing Facilities > Bullet Recovery Equipment > Water Recovery Tank
Initially, water recovery tanks were fabricated locally. The tanks were typically oriented horizontally and measured approximately ten feet long and five feet high. Water filled the tank to just below the firing port. The firing port was angled to facilitate shooting diagonally from the top edge of one end of the tank to the bottom of the opposite end. Indoor vertical tanks are generally not used as they are impractical.
The following points should be considered when constructing a horizontal water tank:
- The angle of the fired bullet should be approximately 30° to:
- avoid ricochets off the surface of the water
- minimize damage to the bullet
- The bullet should travel a minimum of ten to twelve feet on the diagonal in order to decelerate most fired bullets.
- The tank should be positioned to facilitate firing at a 30 degree angle while allowing the shooter to maintain a comfortable shooting position.
- Tanks, which can weigh as much as five tons, should be located on the building’s ground level.
Since the mid 1980s, commercial bullet recovery tanks have become available. The features of commercially available tanks may include:
- Stainless steel construction
- Underwater lighting to avoid surface reflection
- Water filtration and purification
- Air-tight lid and exhaust system
- Assisted lifting system to open the lid
- Non-skid shooting platform
- Secure drain system to preclude bullet loss
- Light colored interior finish to improve visibility
- Convenient work surface on shooting platform
- Connection to a floor drain
*** Why is this next section highlighted in purple? ***
The space allocated for bullet recovery must address the same requirements as any other shooting facility, to include the following concerns:
- Adequate ventilation
- Sound mitigation
- A means for lead removal from bullet traps
- Periodic removal of accumulated surface lead from walls, ceilings and floors
- A posted emergency plan for range users
- First aid equipment
- Periodic training of all personnel in first aid with special emphasis on gunshot wounds
- Periodic training of all personnel in mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
- Landlines to emergency response personnel and managers
- Baseline and periodic testing for lead levels in the blood for all personnel
- Baseline and periodic hearing tests for all personnel
- Availability of eye and hearing protection in the space
