What defines the sustained rate of fire?

The sustained rate of fire is defined as the average number of rounds that can be fired per minute over an extended period while maintaining accuracy and effectiveness. This rate takes into account the need for cooling, barrel wear, and fatigue, which can impact the overall firing capability of a weapon system. It is crucial for ensuring that a weapon can deliver consistent performance during prolonged engagements without overheating or risking malfunction.

In contrast, other definitions such as the maximum rate of fire refer to the peak performance level achievable under ideal conditions, which is typically not sustainable over long durations. The total rounds a magazine can hold relates to ammunition capacity rather than firing rate, and the distance a projectile can travel pertains to ballistic performance rather than the rate of fire. Thus, the sustained rate of fire is best captured by the average number of rounds fired per minute, reflecting the practical application and operational readiness of the weapon in sustained combat scenarios.