Handgun Knowledge Flashcards
8 cards from real FIREARM COMPETENCY practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 8 Handgun Knowledge flashcards as text
Which of these is a common type of handgun action?
Answer: A semi-automatic pistol
Handguns are typically revolvers or semi-automatic pistols. Bolt, pump and lever actions are associated with rifles and shotguns.
Where is the ammunition held in a typical semi-automatic pistol?
Answer: In a detachable magazine
A semi-automatic pistol feeds cartridges from a detachable box magazine, usually housed in the grip, into the chamber as each round is fired.
How does a revolver store its cartridges?
Answer: In a rotating cylinder
A revolver holds its cartridges in a rotating cylinder, which indexes a fresh round in line with the barrel each time the action is cycled.
What does the term 'calibre' refer to on a handgun?
Answer: The diameter of the bore and matching cartridge
Calibre describes the internal diameter of the barrel's bore and, by extension, the size of cartridge the firearm is designed to fire, such as 9mm or .38 Special.
What is the purpose of the safety catch on a pistol?
Answer: To help prevent the firearm from firing unintentionally
A manual safety is a mechanical device intended to reduce the risk of an unintentional discharge, but it never replaces safe handling and trigger discipline.
What should you do if a semi-automatic pistol fails to fire when you pull the trigger?
Answer: Keep it pointed in a safe direction, wait, then clear it
On a misfire, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, wait several seconds in case of a hang-fire, then safely clear the stoppage.
What is 'limp wristing' and why does it matter with a semi-automatic pistol?
Answer: A weak grip that can cause feeding malfunctions
Limp wristing is a loose, unsupported grip that absorbs recoil energy needed to cycle the slide, often causing the pistol to jam or fail to eject.
Why must you use only the ammunition calibre marked on the firearm?
Answer: Wrong ammunition can damage the firearm or injure the shooter
Firing the wrong calibre or pressure of ammunition can cause dangerous malfunctions, damage the firearm, and seriously injure the shooter or bystanders.