NRA Firearm Mechanics & Operation Flashcards

What is a feed ramp and what is its function?

Answer: A ramp that guides cartridges from the magazine into the chamber

The feed ramp is an angled surface that guides the cartridge from the magazine smoothly into the chamber during feeding.

What is the function of the magazine follower?

Answer: To push cartridges upward in the magazine for feeding

The magazine follower sits atop the magazine spring and pushes cartridges upward to present them for feeding into the chamber.

In a lever-action rifle, what component rotates to chamber a new round?

Answer: The carrier

In a lever-action rifle, the carrier lifts the cartridge from the magazine tube into alignment with the chamber as the lever is worked.

What is the sear's role in a firearm's trigger group?

Answer: It holds the hammer or striker in the cocked position until released by the trigger

The sear engages a notch on the hammer or striker to hold it cocked and releases it when the trigger is pulled.

What is cylinder gap on a revolver and why is it significant?

Answer: The space between the cylinder and barrel that allows hot gas to escape

Cylinder gap is the space between the front of the cylinder and the rear of the barrel; excessive gap causes gas and velocity loss and can be a safety hazard.

What is the purpose of the striker in a striker-fired pistol?

Answer: It serves as both the hammer and firing pin combined into one component

In striker-fired pistols, the striker acts as a combined hammer and firing pin, driven by spring tension to strike the primer.