A flechette or flèchette (/fleɪˈʃɛt/ fle-SHET) is a pointed, fin-stabilized steel projectile. The name comes from French flèchette (from flèche), meaning "little arrow" or "dart", and sometimes retains the grave accent in English: flèchette. They have been used as ballistic weapons since World War I. Delivery systems and methods of launching flechettes vary, from a single shot, to thousands in a single explosive round. The use of flechettes as antipersonnel weapons has been controversial.[1]
- ^ "Peace group slams sale of Swedish 'meat grinder' ammunition". www.thelocal.se. 6 March 2011.