CA-FSC Firearm Types and Mechanisms

Question 1

What is the primary difference between a semi-automatic pistol and a revolver?

Accepted Answer

A semi-automatic uses a magazine while a revolver uses a rotating cylinder

Answer

Semi-automatic pistols feed ammunition from a detachable magazine, while revolvers store rounds in a rotating cylinder that aligns with the barrel.

Question 2

What does 'caliber' refer to in firearms terminology?

Accepted Answer

The internal diameter of the gun barrel

Answer

Caliber refers to the internal diameter of the gun barrel, which determines what size ammunition the firearm accepts.

Question 3

What is the function of the safety mechanism on a firearm?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the firearm from firing when engaged

Answer

The safety mechanism is designed to prevent accidental discharge by blocking the firing mechanism when properly engaged.

Question 4

What type of action does a double-action revolver have?

Accepted Answer

Both cocking the hammer and releasing it with a single trigger pull

Answer

A double-action revolver performs two actions with one trigger pull: cocking the hammer and then releasing it to fire.

Question 5

What is a shotgun choke?

Accepted Answer

A constriction at the muzzle end that controls the spread of shot pellets

Answer

A choke is a tapered constriction at the muzzle end of a shotgun barrel that controls how tightly the shot pattern spreads.

CA-FSC (California Firearms Safety Certificates) Practice Test