War Thunder Shell Types Explained
AP, APHE, APCR, HEAT, HEAT-FS, APFSDS, and HE — when players pick each family.
Ammunition choice is a core War Thunder skill. This is not a cheat feature. The listing has no “infinite ammo” or “instant reload” module.
Kinetic families
AP and APHE are solid or bursting armor-piercing rounds common at lower battle ratings. APCR trades post-pen volume for velocity. APFSDS is the long-rod kinetic round on later tanks.
Chemical families
HEAT and HEAT-FS use shaped charges. Performance is less about muzzle velocity than fuse and armor layout. HE is for open tops, modules, and some hull-break cases — not a universal answer.
Use the in-game shot preview for current values. Related: penetration.