A
shell is a payload-carrying
projectile, which, as opposed to
shot, contains an explosive or other filling, though modern usage includes large solid projectiles previously termed
shot (AP, APCR, APCNR, APDS, APFSDS and Proof shot). Solid shot may contain a pyrotechnic compound if a
tracer or spotting charge is used.
Shells are usually large rounds fired by artillery, armored fighting vehicles (including tanks), and warships.
Shells usually have the shape of a cylinder topped by an ogive-shaped nose for good aerodynamic performance, possibly with a tapering base; but some specialised types are quite different.
Written evidence for the first explosive shells appears in the early Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) Chinese military manual Huolongjing, compiled by Jiao Yu (fl. 14th to early 15th century) and Liu Ji (1311–1375) sometime before the latter's death, a preface added by Jiao in 1412.[1] As described in their book, these hollow, gunpowder-packed shells were made of cast iron.[1]
