[1] After graduating from Shinglehouse High School in 1937, Davis received a degree in physics and mathematics from Saint Bonaventure University in 1941.

He joined the United States Army in 1942, was a qualified expert with rifle, pistol, and carbine, and served through World War II advancing to the rank of captain.

He was the United States representative for the Perdine trials of 1953 leading to the adoption of the 7.62×51mm as the standard NATO military cartridge.

He subsequently assisted in the development of the 5.56×45mm cartridge and M16 rifle before retiring from federal employment in 1972.

He wrote the "Ammunition" section of Encyclopædia Britannica and published 14 computer ballistics programs.