NRA Firearm Mechanics & Operation Flashcards

What is the function of the firing pin in a firearm?

Answer: To strike the primer and initiate ignition

The firing pin strikes the primer of the cartridge, initiating the ignition sequence that fires the round.

In a semi-automatic pistol, what component strips the cartridge from the magazine and chambers it?

Answer: The slide/bolt face

The slide (or bolt face) strips the top cartridge from the magazine and chambers it as it moves forward.

What is the purpose of the disconnector in a semi-automatic firearm?

Answer: To prevent the trigger from firing multiple rounds per trigger pull

The disconnector resets the sear after each shot, preventing the firearm from firing more than one round per trigger pull.

What is headspace in a firearm?

Answer: The distance from the bolt face to the datum line in the chamber

Headspace is the distance from the bolt face to the point in the chamber where the cartridge case is supported, critical for safe and reliable operation.

In a double-action revolver, what happens when the trigger is pulled?

Answer: The cylinder rotates, the hammer cocks, and then falls

In double-action mode, a single trigger pull simultaneously rotates the cylinder, cocks the hammer, and releases it to fire.

What is the role of the extractor in a semi-automatic firearm?

Answer: To grip and pull the spent case from the chamber after firing

The extractor hooks onto the cartridge rim and pulls the spent case out of the chamber as the slide or bolt moves rearward.