[4V50 Gary]

Armor piercing bullets. Well, back in the days of iron claded knights, breastplates were proofed by firing a lead ball at it. That it only dented and not penetrate was the proof to the buyer that it was indeed safe from bullets. The race against armor and guns continued until armor was seen as obsolete. It was briefly resurrected early in the Civil War and that probably inspired a new bullet. Armor was quickly discarded by the soldiers as cumbersome and useless (most were easily penetrated by the common minie rifle). There's an example of it at Pamplin Historic Park (near Petersburg, VA). The best example of armor plate being used may be found in George W. Peck's book, How George W. Peck Put Down the Rebellion. Read it here at: George Peck Saved by armor link

[HOUSTON] TRI-WEEKLY TELEGRAPH, July 7, 1862, p. 2, c. 1
Sometime ago we published a letter from a Mr. Standifer, of Lampasas, giving a description of a new steel-pointed bullet that had been invented, and claiming Jno. Weaver as the inventor. We are just now in receipt of a communication from Major Isaac M. Brown, of Lampasas, who assures us that the invention belongs to Mr. Alfred Freeman, and he is entitled to the name of the ball. This bullet is remarkable for its penetrating qualities. At ten paces distance it was shot through ¼ inch slab iron, the ball penetrating one inch into the wood. At fifty-five steps, one of these balls penetrated seasoned burr oak 5 ½ inches. It is believed it will pass through the steel breast plates used by the enemy without difficulty. It is a great invention. Any one can make it.