Which term describes the component of ammunition that is launched?

The term that describes the component of ammunition that is launched is "projectile." In the context of ammunition, the projectile is the part that is expelled from the firearm when it is fired. It is designed to travel towards a target, delivering the intended effect upon impact. Projectiles can take various forms depending on their purpose, such as bullets, shells, or grenades, but they all share the common characteristic of being the part of the ammunition that is shot out.

Understanding the role of the projectile is critical for anyone involved in handling ammunition because it directly relates to the effectiveness and safety of the ammunition's use. In contrast, the case holds the primer and propellant but does not when it is fired; the propellant ignites to create gas pressure that pushes the projectile out of the case and down the barrel of the firearm.