A gas generant tablet (24) for use in a linear inflator (10). The tablet (24) includes a body portion (102) having a first end (104), a second end (106), and a longitudinal axis (T). A first projection (108) extends from the tablet first end (104) in a first direction, with at least a portion of the first projection (108) extending non-orthogonally with respect to the tablet longitudinal axis (T). A second projection (112) extends from the tablet second end (106) in a second direction generally opposite the first direction. At least a portion of the second projection (112) extends non-orthogonally with respect to the tablet longitudinal axis (T). The tablet (24) is shaped such that a cavity (25) is formed between adjacent tablets (24) when the tablets are stacked within a combustion chamber of the inflator (10). Also disclosed is an inflator (10) for use in an inflatable vehicle occupant protection system (200). The inflator (10) includes a longitudinal enclosure (22) having a substantially uniform cross-sectional area along at least a portion of the enclosure. The enclosure (22) defines an interior cavity (22c) for containing a quantity of a gas generant composition therein, and includes a plurality of apertures (40) formed therealong to enable fluid communication between the enclosure interior cavity (22c) and an exterior of the enclosure. A plurality of gas generant tablets (24) is stacked along the enclosure (22), the tablets being shaped such that a cavity (25) is provided between adjacent tablets (24) when the tablets are stacked within the enclosure (22).