Small Arms Terminology Flashcards
What is the definition of Ballistics?
The science and study of the motion and impact of projectiles.
What are the 3 types of Ballistics?
- Internal Ballistics
- External Ballistics
- Terminal Ballistics
What is a Breechblock?
A component that seals the breech and blocks gases from the fired cartridge from exiting to the rear of the chamber
How does the Civilian Sector measure ammunition?
Caliber: The diameter of the bore of a weapon, measured land to land, expressed in hundredths of an inch
What is a Disconnector?
A device incorporated into the action of a weapon which prevents the firing of more than one shot for one pull of the trigger or which prevents the weapon from being fired until the action is fully closed.
What is an Ejector?
A cam or projection inside the receiver against which the cartridge case strikes and is thrown clear of the mechanism after it has been drawn from the chamber by the extractor.
What is an Extractor?
A component that engages the rim, or extractor groove of the cartridge case while the cartridge is in the chamber. After firing the extractor withdraws the case from the chamber when the action opens.
What is a Firing Pin?
The part of the firing mechanism that strikes or contacts the primer of the cartridge to cause ignition to fire the weapon.
What is a Hammer?
The component of the firing mechanism that imparts a sharp blow to the firing pin to initiate the primer
What are Grooves?
The portion of rifling in a barrel that in conjunction with the lands impart the spinning motion to a bullet
What are Lands?
The raised portion between the grooves in the bore of a gun that impart the spinning motion to a bullet.
What is Headspace?
The distance from the Breechblock to that part of the chamber which stops the forward movement of the cartridge case.
What is a Sear?
A component retained under spring tension that releases, by means of a trigger, either a firing pin, hammer or bolt.
What is a Trigger?
A finger actuated lever used to activate the firing mechanism firing the weapon.
What is a Trigger Bar?
A connecting bar operating between the trigger and the sear. Nothing more than an extension on the trigger.
