A sabot 7 having a rearward end and a central longitudinal channel 1 which is engageable with projectile 33 has an anisotropic compressive strength distribution such that on individual radial planes the compressive strength in a first principal material direction P.sub.1 radiates from the central channel 1 towards the rearward end of the sabot. This permits a more even distribution of force at the interface between the sabot and the penetrator.The sabot may be constructed from a fibre reinforced plastic composite, containing a single or a double array of fibres.