CFA Firearm Identification & Historical Significance 2

Question 1

What does the proof mark 'BNP' (within an oval) indicate on a firearm?

Accepted Answer

Birmingham Nitro Proof, indicating the gun passed UK smokeless powder proof testing

Answer

BNP within an oval is the Birmingham Nitro Proof mark, certifying that the firearm passed the UK's proof test with smokeless powder loads.

Question 2

The Colt Single Action Army revolver is historically associated with which era?

Accepted Answer

American Old West (1873–1890s)

Answer

The Colt Single Action Army, introduced in 1873, became iconic during the American Old West era and was widely used by cowboys and lawmen.

Question 3

Which feature most reliably distinguishes a flintlock mechanism from a wheel-lock mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Flintlocks use a flint striking a hinged steel frizzen; wheel-locks use a spinning serrated wheel against pyrite

Answer

Wheel-locks ignite by a spinning steel wheel creating sparks against iron pyrite, while flintlocks use a flint striking a hinged frizzen to produce sparks.

Question 4

A Mauser C96 pistol's distinctive feature useful for identification is:

Accepted Answer

Its integral box magazine in front of the trigger guard and distinctive broomhandle grip

Answer

The Mauser C96 is immediately recognized by its integral magazine ahead of the trigger guard and the round wooden grip called the 'broomhandle.'

Question 5

What is the significance of a 'cartouche' stamp found on military firearms?

Accepted Answer

It is an inspector's or armory acceptance mark verifying the gun passed inspection

Answer

A cartouche is an armory or inspector's stamp applied to confirm the firearm passed quality and acceptance inspection during military procurement.

CFA Practice Test

CFA Practice Test

CFA Firearm Identification & Historical Significance 2