Experiments and Recording Data

In many cases of differing opinions, a clear result can be found via experimentation, using the scientific method. This is an effective method for determining the true result of many opinions with a reasonably small amount of doubt, via repeatable experiments with reliable results. In many cases relevant to /k/; the experimental process is highly comparative; where multiple variables are compared against each-other and a control to determine the "best" for the job. The primary key to building an experimental process for this is to make the experiment repeatable, and make it fulfill the actual parameters of the hypothesis.

Regardless of experiment, there are always at least 2 types of variables; input and output variables. Input variables are the conditions of an experiment; temperature, environmental conditions, etc; whereas the output variables are essentially the results of the experiment. Input variables should be controlled as directly and accurately as possible to avoid any untoward deviation of the experiment itself. Even a small difference in these variables could result in an non-repeatable experiment (also called an outlier) and should be noted as part of the experimental trial.

Basic Ground Rules for Experimentation
All measurements should be in SI units, to avoid any confusion and ease conversion between various units.

Many common values/variables can be easily noted and standardized for the purpose of testing;

TB1 = Temperature at chamber

TB2 = Temperature at muzzle

TB3 = External barrel Temperature(Average)

RL = Rounds Loaded to fire.

RF = Rounds Fired successfully

RM = Rounds which Misfired (Problem with ammunition)

RJ1 = Rounds which Jammed (Stovepipe)

RJ2 = Rounds which Jammed (Feed Jam)

RJ3 = Rounds which Jammed (Failure to Eject)

RJ4 = Rounds which Jammed (Failure to Extract)

RJ5 = Rounds which Jammed (Out of Battery)

RJ6 = Rounds which Jammed (Failure to Cycle)

RJO = Rounds which Jammed (Other Jam, Noted in Experiment)

RJT = Rounds which Jammed (Total)

VM = Muzzle Velocity

VT = Velocity at Target

VP = Velocity Post-hit

DV = Vertical Deviation; in MOA

DH = Horizontal Deviation; in MOA

FM = Force at Muzzle

FT = Force at Target

FP = Force Post-target