Ammunition Types and Storage Flashcards

What does the headstamp on a cartridge case typically indicate?

Answer: The manufacturer and calibre designation

The headstamp is stamped into the base of the case and shows the manufacturer's mark and calibre or cartridge designation.

Which type of primer is recessed into a rim that runs around the entire base of the cartridge case?

Answer: Rimfire primer

Rimfire cartridges have priming compound spun into the hollow folded rim at the base of the case.

A rifle cartridge is labelled '7.62×51mm NATO'. What does the second number (51) represent?

Answer: Case length in millimetres

In metric cartridge nomenclature, the second number is the length of the cartridge case in millimetres.

What is the primary hazard of storing ammunition in a vehicle during hot summer weather?

Answer: Extreme heat degrades the brass causing cartridges to split

Prolonged high heat weakens brass cases, causes propellant degradation, and can lead to misfires or case failure when the ammunition is later fired.

What is a 'sabot' as it relates to ammunition?

Answer: A plastic sleeve that allows a smaller-diameter projectile to be fired from a larger-bore barrel

A sabot is a plastic carrier that holds an undersized projectile and falls away after leaving the muzzle, allowing high-velocity flight of the sub-calibre bullet.

Under Canadian law, where may a person store ammunition in the same container as a non-restricted firearm?

Answer: In any locked container, provided the firearm is rendered inoperable

The Firearms Act permits storing ammunition with a non-restricted firearm in the same locked container as long as the firearm is rendered inoperable by a trigger lock or other approved device.

What term describes the pressure wave that travels back through the shooter's hand when a cartridge fires?

Answer: Recoil impulse

Recoil impulse is the rearward force transmitted to the firearm and shooter caused by expanding propellant gases pushing the projectile forward.