Experience the precision in every round with RWS GmbH. We expertly craft three of the four essential ammunition components: cartridge cases, primer caps, and projectiles, as well as precursor products like brass cups. Our commitment to quality makes us the preferred partner for manufacturers worldwide. Discover the excellence that sets RWS apart.
Ignition technology is at the heart of every development at RWS: the primer delivers the decisive impulse – the starting point of every controlled shot release. RWS manufactures open (Berdan) and anvil primers (Boxer) for all common calibres – precise, reliable, and ready for customer-specific system integration. Maximum ignition reliability, top-tier quality – Made by RWS.
RWS manufactures standard calibres such as 9 mm, 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm for military and government use – complemented by specialised projectiles for a wide range of applications. The portfolio also includes traceable ammunition – marked either chemically or digitally. Precisely manufactured, operationally reliable, and technologically advanced.
An armour-piercing projectile for small-calibre ammunition features a hard core (e.g. made of steel or tungsten) surrounded by a jacket. It is designed for high penetration and primarily used against armoured targets.
A tracer projectile contains a pyrotechnic composition at its base, which ignites upon firing and leaves a visible light trail. It is used for target tracking, fire adjustment or coordination at night or in poor visibility conditions.
A dual-core projectile contains two cores arranged in tandem, typically made of different materials (e.g. a softer front core and a harder rear core). This design optimises penetration of protective materials and increases terminal effectiveness behind cover.
A full metal jacket projectile consists of a soft core, usually lead, completely encased in a hard metal jacket (e.g. copper). It offers good penetration, minimal deformation, and is primarily used in military applications.
A soft point projectile has a lead core that is only partially covered by a metal jacket – usually with an exposed tip. Upon impact, it deforms significantly (expands), leading to high energy transfer and greater terminal effect, especially for hunting purposes.
A hollow point projectile features a cavity at the tip that causes controlled expansion upon impact. This leads to significant expansion and strong terminal performance, making it particularly suitable for hunting and defence applications.
Partial fragmentation projectiles are designed to break apart into several fragments upon impact. Typically, a main core remains intact while other components are deflected or stopped. They combine high stopping power with controlled penetration, and are often used in specialised applications.
Deformation projectiles are engineered to expand or deform in a controlled manner upon impact. This increases the effective wound channel and ensures high energy transfer to the target. The projectile largely retains its mass – ideal for hunting and tactical use.
„When it comes to quality, safety and delivery reliability, we’ve always been able to count on RWS.“
„In emergency medical and diagnostic systems, every millisecond counts – and absolute reliability is non-negotiable. The high-precision ignition elements from RWS give us the confidence we need for our life-saving applications.“
„With large-calibre ammunition, there is no room for compromise – every component must perform under extreme conditions. RWS not only delivers outstanding products, but also offers collaborative development expertise.“
„In pyrotechnics, precision is not an option – it’s a requirement. With RWS as our supplier, we know our ignition chains function reliably, safely and in compliance – even under the most demanding conditions.“
„In safety-critical applications, trust and flawless functionality are essential – and RWS’s TLANZ solutions deliver both at the highest level. For us, they are an indispensable part of our operational systems.“
„With RWS’s tailored product solutions, we gain the crucial edge in those decisive moments that truly matter in our industry – even under extreme conditions.“
Brass cartridge cases are characterised by high corrosion resistance, good formability and reliable performance during loading and ejection – ideal for precise and durable cartridges.
Steel cartridge cases are more cost-effective than brass cases and offer high strength, but with reduced corrosion resistance and lower reloadability.
Tombac is a copper-based alloy commonly used for bullet jackets – it provides good formability, excellent barrel glide, and reduces barrel wear while ensuring reliable functionality.
Tombac-plated steel combines the cost benefits of steel with the ballistic properties of tombac: a thin tombac coating covers the steel core, ensuring good barrel glide, reduced friction and improved corrosion protection, while maintaining structural robustness.
Nickel-plated steel combines the strength and cost-efficiency of steel with a thin nickel layer that provides excellent corrosion protection, a smooth surface and reliable feeding in automatic weapons – ideal for demanding operational conditions.
A rimfire case is a cartridge case in which the primer compound is integrated into the rim of the case head. Upon firing, the firing pin strikes the rim to initiate ignition. Rimfire cartridges are typical for small calibres such as .22 lr and are known for their simple and cost-effective manufacturing.
Centerfire refers to a type of cartridge case in which a separate primer is inserted into the centre of the case head. Centerfire cartridges are more powerful, reloadable, and dominate in hunting, sport shooting, and military use. A distinction is made between Berdan and Boxer priming systems.
