the invention provides for precise control of the initial trajectory of theetals of a discarding sabot from a gun - launched , sabot - driven projectile , so as to eliminate or minimize unbalanced forces on the projectile and avoid disturbance of its flight path . to achieve this precision , a separate , symmetrically oriented hinging element between the sabot petals is used . the hinging element is structurally separate from any means by which the sabot is secured to the projectile or other ammunition components , so that its shape and location , and the material from which it is made , may be oriented specifically to this function . the sabot petals are furthermore contoured with relief cuts so that as the petals rotate open about the projectile , the stress on the hinging element becomes sufficient to rupture it only after the petals have opened sufficiently to clear the projectile .