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 purpose of a 'tang' sight base being lapped (inlet) directly to a rifle's receiver tang? → To ensure full metal-to-metal contact for a solid, wobble-free mount
4. What is the function of a rifle scope's windage adjustment turret? → To move the reticle or impact point horizontally left or right
5. 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
6. What is sectional density (SD) of a bullet? → The ratio of bullet weight to its caliber squared, indicating penetration potential
7. 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
8. How does gunsmithing metalworking affect firearm longevity? → It helps improve longevity by ensuring proper part fitting and material durability
9. What is the role of the extractor in a semi-automatic firearm? → To grip and pull the spent case from the chamber after firing
10. What is the significance of adhering to OSHA safety regulations in a gunsmithing workshop? → They ensure a safe working environment by reducing injury risks
11. What does the Rockwell hardness scale 'C' (HRC) primarily measure in gunsmithing contexts? → Surface hardness after heat treatment
12. What is the significance of fitting a custom barrel to a firearm? → It ensures better performance and accuracy
13. 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
14. What is the advantage of a skeletonized bolt handle on a precision bolt-action rifle? → It reduces overall rifle weight without sacrificing bolt manipulation surface area
15. 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
16. Why is it important to understand the firearm's function before performing customizations? → It ensures safety and functionality during and after customization
17. Which type of steel is most commonly used for rifle barrels due to its combination of strength and machinability? → 4140 chromoly steel
18. 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
19. Which wood species is traditionally preferred for high-quality rifle stocks because of its strength-to-weight ratio and oil finish compatibility? → American black walnut
20. A revolver exhibits cylinder timing issues where the cylinder does not lock up fully before the hammer falls. Which component is the MOST likely cause? → Cylinder hand (pawl)
21. Which heat treatment process is used to relieve internal stresses in a steel part after machining without significantly changing its hardness? → Stress relieving
22. What is the recommended method for removing a broken screw that is flush with the surface in a firearm receiver? → Using a screw extractor after center-punching and drilling a pilot hole
23. A gunsmith wishes to manufacture a custom suppressor for a customer who already has an approved NFA Form 4. What must the gunsmith do first? → File ATF Form 1 (Application to Make and Register a Firearm) before manufacturing
24. What is the primary difference between rifle powder and pistol powder in terms of burn rate? → Rifle powder burns slower; pistol powder burns faster
25. 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
26. 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
27. When case hardening a small steel part using pack hardening, what material is typically used as the carbonizing compound? → Charcoal or bone meal mixed with an energizer
28. Which action type is most commonly found on double-barrel shotguns? → Break-action
29. What is the purpose of customizing a firearm’s stock? → To enhance comfort and shooting accuracy
30. Which OSHA standard most directly applies to a gunsmith shop that uses chemical solvents for cleaning firearms? → 29 CFR 1910.1200 – Hazard Communication Standard