What do you have to know about firearms before buying and shooting one? This article will cover basic firearm features. You can never learn too much and it’s always great to have a refresher if needed.
Basic Firearms Features
The basic features of most firearms include the stock, barrel, muzzle, action, safety, sight, trigger and trigger guard, and magazine.
Actions: What the heck is an action when referring to firearms?
The term refers to the type of trigger function it has (i.e., single-action, double-action, double-action-only, etc.), or it may refer to how a firearm is manipulated in order to insert ammunition into the firing chamber (break-action, bolt-action, lever-action, etc.)
Common Actions on Rifles
- Bolt Action
- Lever Action
- Pump Action
- Semi-Automatic Action
- Break (or Hinge) Action
Common Actions on Shotguns
- Pump Action
- Semi-Automatic Action
- Bolt Action Repeater
- Break Action with Single Barrell
- Break Action Side-by-Side with Double Barrell
- Break Action with Over-Under with Double Barrel
Safeties: What is a safety when referring to firearms?
The term refers to the mechanism used to help prevent the accidental discharge of a firearm, helping to ensure safer handling.
Common Safeties
- Hammer Safety
- Pivot Safety
- Slide Safety
- Cross-Bolt Safety
Commonly Asked Questions About Firearm Features:
What are the basic features that all firearms have in common?
All firearms have key features such as a barrel, action, and firing mechanism. These components work together to discharge a projectile. They also have a grip or stock for holding and typically include sights for aiming.
What are the features of a gun?
A gun typically includes a barrel, trigger, firing mechanism, magazine or chamber, and sights. Modern guns might also feature safety mechanisms, ergonomic grips, and various accessories like scopes or laser sights for enhanced accuracy.
What are the 7 functions of a weapon?
The seven functions of a weapon generally include loading, feeding, chambering, locking, firing, unlocking, extracting, and ejecting. These functions ensure the weapon operates smoothly and effectively during use.
What are the elements of firearms?
The primary elements of firearms are the barrel, action (which includes the firing mechanism), and stock. Other important parts include the magazine, sights, safety mechanisms, and any additional accessories for improved performance.
This is our list of what you have to know about firearms before buying and shooting one. For more resources, check out these articles:
