Action (Firearm)


The mechanism that loads, fires, and ejects cartridges (e.g., bolt, pump, lever).

Related Terms

Stock

The part of a firearm that rests against the shooter’s shoulder, consisting of the buttstock and ...

Read More
Headspace

The gap between the cartridge base and the firearm’s breech face; improper headspace can cause ma...

Read More
Barrel

The metal tube through which a projectile travels when a firearm is fired; length and rifling aff...

Read More
Pistol Grip

The handle on a rifle or shotgun where the trigger hand wraps around; enhances control and comfort.

Read More
Semi-Automatic

A firearm action where each trigger pull fires a single shot and automatically chambers the next ...

Read More
Pump-Action

A firearm action (commonly in shotguns) where the forend is manually cycled to eject a spent shel...

Read More
Forend

The forward part of a firearm’s stock under the barrel, gripped by the non-trigger hand for suppo...

Read More
Hinged Floorplate

A feature on some bolt-action rifles where the magazine floorplate swings open for quick unloadin...

Read More
Firearm Safety Rules

The core guidelines: treat every gun as loaded, muzzle in safe direction, finger off trigger unti...

Read More

Related Articles