NRA NRA Ammunition & Ballistics

Question 1

What are the four components of a centerfire cartridge?

Accepted Answer

Bullet, case, primer, powder

Answer

Bullet, case, wad, powder

Answer

Projectile, shell, cap, propellant

Answer

Slug, brass, igniter, charge

Question 2

What is the difference between a boxer primer and a berdan primer?

Accepted Answer

Boxer has a single flash hole and self-contained anvil; Berdan has two flash holes and relies on an anvil in the case

Answer

Boxer uses a softer metal; Berdan uses a harder metal

Answer

Boxer is used in rifle ammo only; Berdan is for pistols

Answer

Boxer is reloadable; Berdan is not

Question 3

What does SAAMI stand for and why is it important to gunsmiths?

Accepted Answer

Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute; it sets industry standards for chamber and ammunition dimensions

Answer

Small Arms Ammunition Management Institute; it regulates importation

Answer

State Approved Arms and Munitions Ministry; it governs licensing

Answer

Standard Ammunition and Arms Military Index; it provides ballistic data

Question 4

What is the primary difference between rifle powder and pistol powder in terms of burn rate?

Accepted Answer

Rifle powder burns slower; pistol powder burns faster

Answer

Rifle powder burns faster; pistol powder burns slower

Answer

Both burn at the same rate

Answer

Burn rate depends on bullet weight, not firearm type

Question 5

What is sectional density (SD) of a bullet?

Accepted Answer

The ratio of bullet weight to its caliber squared, indicating penetration potential

Answer

The diameter of the bullet divided by its length

Answer

The weight of the bullet relative to case volume

Answer

The hardness rating of the bullet material

Question 6

What is a Magnum cartridge generally characterized by?

Accepted Answer

A larger case capacity resulting in higher velocity and energy compared to its standard counterpart

Answer

A heavier bullet only

Answer

A larger bullet diameter

Answer

A longer overall cartridge length only