NRA Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield NRA facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In a single-action revolver, what must happen before the firearm can fire? → The hammer must be manually cocked
2. What is 'sight radius' on a firearm? → The distance between the front and rear sights
3. What is the function of a rifle scope's windage adjustment turret? → To move the reticle or impact point horizontally left or right
4. What is the importance of understanding firearm safety standards during repair and restoration? → Following safety standards is critical to ensuring safe firearm operation post-repair
5. What is sectional density (SD) of a bullet? → The ratio of bullet weight to its caliber squared, indicating penetration potential
6. What is the purpose of the striker in a striker-fired pistol? → It serves as both the hammer and firing pin combined into one component
7. How does gunsmithing metalworking affect firearm longevity? → It helps improve longevity by ensuring proper part fitting and material durability
8. What is the role of the extractor in a semi-automatic firearm? → To grip and pull the spent case from the chamber after firing
9. What is the significance of adhering to OSHA safety regulations in a gunsmithing workshop? → They ensure a safe working environment by reducing injury risks
10. What is the significance of fitting a custom barrel to a firearm? → It ensures better performance and accuracy
11. What term describes the proper relationship between the front sight post and the rear sight notch when they are correctly aligned for aiming? → Sight alignment
12. What is the primary aiming advantage of a red dot (reflex) sight compared to traditional iron sights? → Faster target acquisition with both eyes open, requiring only a single focal plane
13. Why is it important to understand the firearm's function before performing customizations? → It ensures safety and functionality during and after customization
14. What torque range is most commonly recommended for scope ring cap screws to ensure secure retention without damaging the scope tube? → 15–18 inch-pounds
15. What is the primary difference between rifle powder and pistol powder in terms of burn rate? → Rifle powder burns slower; pistol powder burns faster
16. What is the purpose of using a padded vise jaw or aluminum jaw inserts in gunsmithing? → To prevent marring or damaging the surface finish of firearm components
17. How should a gunsmith properly store a cleaned firearm to prevent rust? → Apply a light coat of oil to metal surfaces and store in a low-humidity environment
18. Which action type is most commonly found on double-barrel shotguns? → Break-action
19. What is the purpose of customizing a firearm’s stock? → To enhance comfort and shooting accuracy
20. Why is it important to follow federal firearm regulations? → To ensure compliance with the law and prevent illegal activities
21. What is the purpose of a gas regulator on some gas-operated rifles? → It allows adjustment of the amount of gas used to cycle the action
22. What does 'locking lugs' refer to in bolt-action and semi-automatic rifle design? → Protrusions on the bolt that rotate into recesses to lock the action closed during firing
23. Why is it important to match parts during firearm restoration? → It ensures proper function and safety of the firearm
24. What is the first step in customizing a firearm? → Assessing the firearm’s existing features and determining goals
25. What is a 'bore light' used for in gunsmithing? → To illuminate the bore for inspection of rifling condition, cleanliness, and obstructions
26. What is the function of the disconnector in a semi-automatic firearm? → It prevents the firearm from firing until the trigger is released and reset
27. In a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) pistol, what happens on the first trigger pull? → The trigger both cocks and releases the hammer
28. What is case annealing used for in ammunition reloading? → To soften the case neck and shoulder to restore ductility after repeated firing
29. What differentiates a pump-action (slide-action) firearm from other manually operated actions? → The shooter cycles the action by moving the fore-end rearward and forward
30. What is the recommended way to clean a suppressor (if the design permits)? → Soak in an ultrasonic cleaner with appropriate solvent or wet tumble in appropriate media