FIREARMS GLOSSARY

(March 2024)

Both agents and insurers should strive to properly protect their customers’ possessions which have special value and significance. Personal property that an insured collects as a hobby or for investment purposes has both of these qualities. Special attention is needed because collectibles, such as guns, only have limited coverage under a homeowners policy. Since coverage is so paltry, requests to schedule guns and related property are common. Any insight into a special type of property is always a good thing. It is in this spirit that we offer a glossary of firearm terms. It has been prepared after researching various sources and compiled by our editing staff.

- A -

ACP–Abbreviation for automatic colt pistol.

accidental discharge–An unexpected, unwanted firearm discharge caused by firearm parts breakage or mechanical failure.

action–A firearm’s working mechanism (typically the receiver or frame and breech bolt) that facilitates its firing and loading/unloading. There are a variety of types of actions from single to automatic.

action shooting–A competitive event where participants draw holstered pistols and fire at various-shaped, small targets. The winner is the most accurate shooter or fastest shooter.

adjustable trigger–Triggers, usually found on custom firearms, used in target-shooting where the trigger spacing can be changed.

AE–See automatic ejectors.

air gun–Refers to any gun that fires projectiles (BBs, pellets) by C02 or compressed air.

ambidextrous safety–A manual safety that a shooter can reach and operate easily with either hand.

ammo–Abbreviated form of ammunition.

ammunition–A complete assembly consisting of a case, a charge (gunpowder) and a projectile. Also known as fixed ammunition.

ANIB–See as new in original box.

antique–Refers to any firearm, manufactured pre-1899, that is not designed to fire fixed ammunition or for which ammunition is unavailable.

aperture sight–A rear sight found on rifles and shotguns consisting of a thick rim and a small opening at the weapon’s rear paired with a front-located blade sight.

AR-15–A very popular semi-automatic rifle original made by Armalite Manufacturing.

armor-piercing ammunition–The U.S. Government defines it as projectiles that are used in handguns and which consist (entirely or primarily) of beryllium copper, brass, bronze, depleted uranium, iron, steel, or tungsten alloys.

arsenal–A government facility that makes, repairs and stores ammunition and firearms.

articulated front trigger–A hinged trigger that is designed to minimize the force of the gun’s recoil on the trigger finger.

artillery–Typically refers to firearms with bore diameters of 3 or more inches. Generally, they fire explosive projectiles and must be operated by a crew.

as new in original box–A term for guns that are virtually unused and maintained in mint condition.

assault rifle–A selective-fire rifle designed to rapidly fire intermediate power cartridges. This type of firearm originated in early 1940s Germany. Their “storm rifle” was made to spray bullets to maximize the weapon’s ability to wound and kill during combat.

assault weapon–Technically any weapon used in an assault, but usually refers to firearms that are compatible for efficient attacks. See weapon.

auto(matic) loading–See semi-automatic.

automatic ejectors–Guns with a breech feature that pops out fired shells or positions unfired shells so that may be manually pulled out.

automatic firearm–Firearm that continuously feeds cartridges, fires their bullets, and ejects their empty cases.

automatic pistol–Popular term that is a misnomer. See semi-automatic pistol.

automatic safety–A feature on a break-open gun that resets the gun safety each time such guns are opened.

- B -

back boring–Reaming the rear internal diameter of a shotgun barrel beyond its standard gauge. While this practice increases the shot pattern accuracy and reduces recoil, it also reduces the barrel’s integrity (safety).

backstop–The part of a target that keeps projectiles from passing through.

backstrap–The part of a pistol that is exposed at the rear of the grip.

baker ejectors–See automatic ejectors.

ball–Typically refers to a cylinder-shaped bullet with either a rounded or pointed nose and is usually used with muzzle-loaded firearms.

ballistics–The study of projectile motion and effects.

ballistic fingerprint–A record (usually kept in a database) of the markings left on a projectile when it is fired.

barrel–The rifled or smooth tube that a projectile travels after it’s been fired.

barrel band–A fixed or adjustable band that holds a gun’s barrel and stock together.

barrel band front sight–A gun sight located on the front of a barrel, consisting of a band that completely surrounds the barrel.

barrel liner–A liner made of special material that is inserted into a bore to either protect the bore, correct bore erosion or to alter the bore so that it can fire smaller caliber ammo.

barrel locks–Devices inserted into a firearm’s barrel or through the barrel and chamber to prevent discharge.

barrel selector–Component that determines the firing order in a double barrel gun.

base wad–A paper filling that is found in the shotgun shell’s powder charge.

BATFE–Abbreviation for Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It’s a division of the Dept. of Homeland Security that enforces laws related to property specified in its name.

battery–The flintlock component that, when struck, creates sparks that ignites the powder.

bayonet–An edged weapon mounted on the muzzle end of a firearm and used as a backup weapon. The first bayonets were basically daggers stuck in the muzzle of a musket, so that it could be used as a pike in close combat.

bayonet lug–A mounting on a firearm for attaching a bayonet or accessory.

BBL–Abbreviation for barrel.

beaded cheek piece–A raised area of decorative beads located in the place where a cheek is rested while firing a gun.

bedding–The point to which a firearm’s barrel is fitted.

beavertail–A large, curved piece of metal located at the top of a gun grip that prevents being pinched by a gun’s hammer.

beavertail forend–A wide-styled forend.

bench–A notch located in either a gun’s hammer or in a firing pin housing. The sear rests temporarily in this area after cocking.

benchrest (shooting)–A competition where participants fire from a fixed shooting position in an attempt to place consecutive shots into the smallest possible grouping on a paper target. Typically, it involves groups of at least 10 shots and at different target distances.

berdan primer–See primer.

bipod–A two-legged support that is mounted to a rifle’s front end to stabilize for aiming and shooting.

bird shot–Refers to shotgun projectiles that have a diameter less than .24".

black powder–The earliest form of firearm propellant. Except for its use in antique guns, it has been replaced by higher pressure, smokeless powder.

blank cartridge–A cartridge containing a charge but NO projectile. It is used for starter’s guns or for special uses such as in movies or theatre productions.

blind box magazine–A magazine that is inserted into a firearm handle and has a permanent closed bottom.

bluing–A gun’s blue or black metal finish that is the result of an acid bath.

boattail–A bullet with a tapered end that improves its long-range efficiency due to reduced drag.

body armor–Vest type jacket worn by law enforcement or military personnel. It is usually made of light-weight, bullet resistive material such as Kevlar.

bolt-action–A firearm with an assembly that requires a user to manually lock a cartridge into firing position in its barrel or chamber.

bore–The interior of a firearm's barrel excluding the chamber.

box magazine–An ammunition holder where the cartridges are vertically stacked.

brass–A slang term for a spent case. It’s used because a case is most commonly made out of brass.

break–See trigger break.

breech–The rear part of a gun’s bore.

breechblock–A movable piece of metal used to open and close a gun’s breech.

BT–See beavertail forend.

buck shot–Refers to shotgun projectiles that have a diameter of .24 or greater.

buckhorn sight–An open, metallic rear sight with sides that curl similarly to a buck’s horns.

bug–Shortened reference for back up gun.

bull barrel–A heavier, thicker than normal barrel with little or no taper.

bullet–The projectile expelled from a gun which is distinct from a cartridge. Bullets come in a variety of types and are usually composed of lead or lead that is shielded with a harder metal.

bullet-proof jacket or vest–A misnomer. See body armor.

bushed firing pins–A circular steel fitting that screws into a gun’s breech and houses a firing pin. It facilitates easier replacement of broken firing pins and better breech maintenance.

butt–Describes the bottom part of a pistol grip and the rear or shoulder portion of a rifle or shotgun.

butt plate–A covering that protects the butt of a firearm. The cover may be metal, plastic, rubber, or some other material.

- C -

caliber–The diameter of a projectile for a rifled firearm or the interior diameter of a rifled barrel. In the U.S., the diameter is expressed in hundreds of an inch.

calibre–See caliber.

can–A slang reference for any form of sound suppressor.

cannelure–A groove around a projectile’s circumference.

carbine–This name applies to any short-barreled rifle (designed for easier use and concealment).

cartridge–A single, complete round of ammunition consisting of a case, charge (propellant) and projectile (bullet).

cartouche–On a gun, a stamped area on a gun stock that has the initials of the person who inspected and accepted a gun into service (an inspection date is usually included).

case, casing–The material that surrounds and holds the charge (cartridge propellant) and/or projectile. It is typically made of brass.

caseless ammunition–Ammo that includes a propellant charge in its base rather than in a separate case.

CCW–Refers either to “Carry Concealed” or “Concealed Carry” Weapon. The former is the act of having a concealed weapon on one’s person, the latter is ownership of a permit to do so.

center-fire–A cartridge with a primer placed at the center of its casing’s base.

chamber–The area of a firearm that holds a cartridge immediately prior to its being fired.

chamfer–See crowning.

charcoal color casehardening–A method of strengthening gun metal by subjecting it to high heat and plunging it into cold water.

charging handle–A handle that cycles a semi or fully automatic firearm without discharging.

checkering–The diamond-shaped tool patterns that are cut into firearm grips.

cheek piece–A raised portion on the side of the gun’s stock where a user rests his or her cheek while operating a gun.

choke–A constriction at or near a shotgun muzzle. It is designed to control shot dispersion.

claw extractor–A feature found on bolt-action guns. A claw component that holds and then pulls cartridges out of a magazine.

clearing–Unloading and verifying that a gun does NOT contain ammunition.

clip–Popularly refers to a container that holds a group of cartridges, which may either be transferred or inserted into a firearm.

closed bolt firing system–A firearm with an enclosed action where upon firing, another cartridge is chambered and ready for the next shot.

CN–Abbreviation of “Chloracetohenone,” the full chemical name for tear gas.

cock–The hammer-like device on early firearms that set the weapon into "firing" position.

cocking (a gun)–Pulling back a gun’s hammer into its firing position.

cocking handle–See charging handle.

cocking indicators–Any device that is designed to display whether each barrel has been cocked and/or fired. Typically located on a hammer.

cold range–Requiring a gun to be kept unloaded on a pistol range until it is time to fire at a target on a pistol range.

comb–The portion of the stock where a shooter rests his or her cheek.

combat shooting–A competition using handguns that simulates situations found in personal protection situations.

combination gun–Typically refers to a shotgun-style base, supporting both a rifle and a shotgun barrel and capable of using several different calibers of ammo.

COM–Center of (bodily) Mass, most effective area to target when firing.

compensator–See muzzle brake.

cop-killer bullet–An inflammatory phrase typically used to refer to ammunition capable of piercing body armor (bullet-proof jackets).

cover garment–Any article of clothing that conceals a gun and holster, such as a sweater or jacket.

crane–A U-shaped yoke that supports and facilitates the operation of a cylinder.

cross-dominant–A right-handed shooter who aims with his left eye and vice versa.

crosshairs–The sighting lines in a telescopic sight.

crown–The finished contour of a muzzle or a rifle.

crowning–The process of rounding and countersinking a barrel muzzle.

cupro-nickel–A silver-colored alloy of copper and nickel used to make bullet jackets.

cylinder–A drum-shaped component of a revolver that houses its ammunition.

- D -

DA–See double action.

damascene–Decorating one metal by inlaying or attaching another metal.

damascus barrel–A barrel made by welding thin strips of metal that have been twisted around a metal rod (called a mandrel).

dampeners–An accessory, usually added to a rifle’s stock, to absorb the shock of recoil.

decimate–Literally “reducing by a tenth.” Any strategy designed to reduce an attacking force (or number of targets) by, at least, a tenth.

decocker–A lever found on double-action, semi-automatic firearms which lowers their hammers without firing.

demi-bloc barrels–A method of joining two barrels in which the lumps are integrated into each barrel. This joining method facilitates stronger barrels and greater accuracy in aiming.

derringer–A very short-barreled (one or two shot) pocket pistol named after its inventor, Henry Derringer.

deterrent–A material used with gun powder to slow its burn rate.

detonate–To ignite (initiate) an explosive device.

discharge–To fire a weapon.

dispersion–Travel pattern of bullets fired from a single source.

double-action –A firearm that is fired either by manually cocking the weapon and then pulling the trigger or by using trigger action to both cock and fire the weapon.

double action only–Guns that are fired by using the trigger to first cock the hammer and then fire the piece for each shot. Between shots, the hammer rests forward, uncocked.

double-barreled shotgun–A shot gun with two separate barrels, allowing for two discharges before reloading.

double-feed–Occurs when a fresh round is blocked from a firearm’s chamber by a case that was not properly ejected.

double-set trigger –A device consisting of one trigger which cocks and gun while the partner fires it.

double-tap–A succession of two shots fired rapidly from a semiautomatic pistol, rifle or shotgun, or a revolver.

dove-tailed barrels–A method for side-by-side barrels where two barrels are filed at their breech end and fitted into a solid, metal block.

drilling–A German term, referring to a gun with three-barrels.

drop safety–A form of safety that prevents a gun from firing when it is dropped.

drum magazine–Refers to an ammunition holder where cartridges are stored in a circular fashion.

dry firing–Discharging an unloaded firearm in order to become familiar with its operation.

dud–A popular term for a cartridge that fails to fire after its primer is struck by the firearm's firing pin. See hangfire.

dum-dum bullet–A lead-core, shielded bullet with an open nose that was developed by the British in the late 19^th Century. It was outlawed by the 1899 Hague Convention.

dummy bullet–A cartridge with a bullet, but NO propellant or operating primer. Used for demonstrating firearm loading procedures.

- E -

EARS–Slang for any form of firearm hearing protection.

EHP–See electronic hearing protection.

ejector–A mechanism that throws cases free of a firearm.

ejection port–An opening in a firearm that permits the emptying of spent ammunition.

ejection rod–The metal dowel that allows fired bullet cases to be pushed out of a revolver chamber.

elevation–A long-range sighting component that allow for adjustments to compensate for the effects on projectiles caused by changes in elevation above sea-level.

electronic hearing protection–Earmuffs with electronics that amplify voices while shutting out other noises that exceed a given decibel.

English stock–A straight rifle stock with a slender grip.

escutcheon–A decorated metal plate that is fitted (inlaid) into a gunstock. It is usually engraved with the original owner’s monogram or a coat of arms.

excellent–(NRA Condition Standard) all original parts; over 80% original finish; sharp lettering, numeral and design on metal and wood; unmarred wood; fine bore.

expanding bullet–Any bullet that is designed to expand upon striking. This action increases the bullet’s stopping power (and lethality).

expert marksman–A highly-skilled shooter, capable of hitting any target falling within weapon range.

exploding bullet–A bullet with an explosive component that explodes under striking (ironically this feature severely reduces its ability to penetrate a target).

extractor–A device that pulls (hooks) spent cases out of a chamber.

extrinsic safety–An external component that is attached to a gun to avoid unintended discharge, such as a separate trigger lock.

- F -

factory new–(NRA Condition Standard) all original parts: 100% original finish: in perfect condition in every respect, inside and out.

failure to extract (FTE)–See double-feed.

fair–(NRA Condition Standard) some major parts replaced; minor replacement parts may be required; metal rusted, may be lightly pitted all over, vigorously cleaned, or re-blued; rounded edges of metal and wood; principal lettering, numerals, and design on metal partly obliterated; wood scratched, bruised, cracked, or repaired where broken; in fair working order or can be easily repaired and placed in working order.

federal firearm dealer’s license–A person who buys and sells guns must hold a valid license to do so. Such license copies must be held by the recipient dealer when receiving a gun shipment.

feed–To move a live cartridge from a firearm’s magazine to its chamber.

feed ramp–An inclined part connected to a firing chamber that assists in moving ammo into the firing position.

FFL–See federal firearm dealer’s license.

field gun–A lighter weight shot gun used in hunting and which is carried for long distances.

figured walnut–Subjective grading of quality of walnut wood grain used in gun stocks.

fine–(NRA Condition Standard) all original parts: over 30% original finish: sharp lettering and numerals on metal and wood, minor marring on wood, good bore.

firearm–Technically, any pistol, rifle, or shotgun that uses gunpowder to launch projectiles.

firepower–A generic reference to how heavily or seriously armed a party is.

firing pin–The breech component that strikes the primer, igniting the cartridge.

fit and finish–Refers to a firearm’s over-all workmanship.

fixed ammunition–See ammunition.

flash–The light emitted from a weapon’s muzzle when it is discharged.

flash hider/flash suppressor–An accessory that is attached to a muzzle. It is designed to minimize any visible muzzle flash during discharge.

flat point/nose–A bullet with a flat rather than rounded point.

flintlock–An antique gun which has a firing mechanism consisting of flint striking steel to create sparks that ignites a primer.

floating barrel– A barrel bedded to avoid contact with a gun’s stock.

floor plate–The bottom plate of a cartridge magazine that’s removable.

FMJ–See full metal jacket.

forcing cone–The tapered front section of a revolver or shotgun chamber that reduces in size to match the barrel’s bore (diameter).

forearm–The portion of a stock located under a firearm’s barrel.

fore end–See forend.

forend–The front portion of a rifle or shotgun stock.

F.M.J.–See full metal jacket.

F.P.S.–Feet per second of speed of a projectile’s speed.

frame–See receiver.

frangible bullet–A projectile designed to minimize ricochets by disintegrating when a hard surface is struck.

free rifle–A rifle, having to weigh less than 17.6 pounds, which is designed for international-type target shooting.

frizzen–The part of a flintlock which is struck by a piece of flint, producing a shower of sparks.

front strap–The forward-facing portion of a pistol or revolver that is joined with the trigger guard.

full metal jacket–A bullet that is fully encased with a layer of metal (usually copper), which maximizes its ability to penetrate a target.

fully automatic firearm–See automatic firearm.

- G -

gain twist–A barrel with an increasing pitch in its rifle grooves, resulting in an accelerated bullet spin.

garand–Common name given to the U.S. Rifle, Caliber .30, M1.

gas-operated–An automatic or semi-automatic firearm that uses propellant gases to operate its case ejections.

gauge–Refers to a shotgun barrel’s bore size.

GCA 68–See Gun Control Act of 1968.

Geneva Convention(s)–A set of international agreements regarding the behavior of warring nations. It is frequently noted for its ban on the use of ammunition designed to expand upon impact.

ghost ring sight–A sight with a large opening and a thin rim that is positioned on the rear of a rifle or a shotgun. It is used in conjunction with a front-mounted sight and results in the ability to quickly find a target.

glassbedding–Epoxy used to compensate for a poor fit between a gun’s metal and wood components.

good–(NRA Condition Standard) some minor replacement parts; metal smoothly rusted or slightly pitted in places, cleaned or re-blued (metal re-colored); principal lettering, numerals, and design on metal legible; wood refinished. Scratched, bruised, or minor cracks repaired, in good working order.

grip safety–A locking device located on the grip which, unless depressed, prevents a discharge.

grooves–See rifling.

gun–In the U.S., term may be applied to air guns, cannons, pistols, rifles, and shotguns.

gun control–Typically refers to either existing or proposed laws involving firearm sales and ownership.

Gun Control Act of 1968–The main piece of federal legislation that controls the major aspects of gun ownership and distribution in the United States.

gun free zone–Any area where citizens are prohibited from possessing a firearm.

gun lobby–A term typically (and some might argue, pejoratively) applied to any persons or organizations who work to influence pro-gun ownership laws.

gun lock–The firearm mechanism responsible for exploding the primer (charge).

gunnery–The art/practice of building and operating large bore guns.

gun nut–A pejorative label for a gun enthusiast.

gun powder–Any powdered substance that can be ignited and is suited for propelling projectiles.

gun safe–See lock box.

gun smith–A person skilled in making and repairing guns.

- H -

hammer–The firearm component that causes the firing pin to ignite a cartridge primer.

hammer block–A safety device that separates the hammer from the firing pin until discharged.

hammerless–A firearm with a frame design that conceals its firing pin and hammer.

hand–The part of a revolver which turns the cylinder as the gun is cocked.

handgun–See pistol.

hangfire–A cartridge that has a delayed discharge due either to defective primer or a defective blow from a firing pin.

hardball–Slang for a bullet with a full, metal jacket.

head–See base.

heavy trigger–A trigger that must be pulled hard to reach the firearm’s trigger break (firing) position.

heel–The base of a bullet or firearm stock.

high-capacity magazine–An informal reference to a magazine holding a high number of cartridges.

high intensity–Projectiles that fire at a very high velocity, resulting in longer range shots.

high kneeling–A shooting stance where person is on both knees, holding upper body erect.

hinged frame action–A firearm design where the action may be opened to pivot down, sideways, or up to allow for loading and unloading.

hollow-point bullet–A bullet with a concave nose that maximizes its ability to expand after it penetrates a target.

hoplophobe–A coined term for persons with an irrational fear of weapons. Apparently pejorative, it comes from the Greek words for tool or weapon and fear.

howitzer–An artillery piece which is used to fire projectiles over medium ranges on high trajectories.

HMR–Hornady Magnum Rimfire brand ammunition.

HP–Abbreviation for a hollow point bullet.

- I -

igniting charge–See primer.

improved cylinder choke–A minimal amount of barrel constriction that permits a wide shot pattern.

incendiary ammunition–Ammunition featuring projectiles with a base that ignites upon contact with objects with the intent to start fires.

inertial firing pin–A model of firing pin that is only long enough to make contact with cartridge primer when forced forward by a hammer.

integral lock–An internal lock that prevents firing a firearm.

intermediate cartridge–A cartridge designed to allow controllable automatic fire from a rifle.

internal safety–A gun safety that may not be accessed by a firearm user and is designed to minimize unintended discharges.

international ballistics–See ballistics.

International Practical Shooting Confederation–The governing organization that oversees global action and combat shooting competitions. Headquarters: Sedro Woolley, WA.

intrinsic safety device–Any permanently installed firearm component that is designed to minimize the chance of an unintended discharge.

IPSC–See International Practical Shooting Confederation.

iron sights–A non-telescopic firearm sight.

isosceles stance–A shooting stance in which a gun is held in both hands and arms are held out straight from the body.

- J -

jacket–A layer of material, metal or synthetic, which encloses the (typically lead) core of a bullet.

jacketed hollow point bullet–A bullet enclosed by a copper alloy but with a cavity in the bullet core which expands upon impact.

jacketed soft point bullet–A bullet enclosed by a copper alloy, with the exception of the bullet’s nose. The softer bullet point expands upon impact.

JHP–Abbreviation for jacketed hollow point bullet.

JSP–Abbreviation for a jacketed soft point bullet.

jump–Refers to the change in bore diameter as a bullet travels from a chamber to the muzzle.

- K -

Kentucky rifle–A type of flintlock firearm, characterized by a short stock and a long barrel.

Kevlar–A light weight, bullet resistive material.

Kevlar vest–See body armor.

keyhole–The elongated hole caused when an unstable projectile strikes a target sideways.

kick–See recoil.

- L -

laminated stock–A warp-resistant stock that is made layers of wood that have been glued together under pressure.

land and groove impression–The rifling marks left on a discharged bullet.

lands–See rifling.

leading–Remnants in a firearm bore that is left by fired bullets.

lethality–A weapon’s or ammunition’s subjective level of producing a fatal result.

lever-action–A gun mechanism that is operated (loaded, fired, unloaded) by a lever, typically located below the receiver.

loaded–A firearm with a cartridge in its firing chamber.

loading gate–A hinged or spring-loaded cover that, when opened, allows a firearm to be loaded.

loading port–A receiver opening that facilitates a cartridge.

lock–Typically refers to securing the bolt of a firearm before firing it.

lock box–A heavy, metal storage box with either a key or combination lock that is used for a pistol, ammunition, and accessories storage.

lock time–The amount of time between when the trigger is pulled and the gun goes off.

locking lugs–Firearm bolt projections that fit into a receiver so that, when the bolt is closed, the action is locked into firing position.

L.R.–Abbreviation for long rifle.

- M -

machine gun–A rifled firearm capable of automatically feeding, firing, and ejecting high-powered cartridges. Typically, only military ownership and use is permitted.

machine pistol–See submachine gun.

magazine–Refers to either a permanent or detachable, spring-loaded container for cartridges. It is often considered the same as a clip. One distinction is that, externally, a magazine appears to complete the firearm’s form, while a clip is an ammunition insert (or transfer device) that does not affect external appearance.

magazine disconnector–See magazine safety.

magazine floorplate–The bottom of a fixed magazine.

magazine follower–A spring-actuated device to push cartridges in a magazine to the feeding position.

magazine release–A device that retains or releases a detachable magazine in a firearm.

magazine safety–A device that prevents a pistol from firing without a magazine being fully inserted.

magazine well–The opening in a firearm that receives the detachable magazine.

magnum–Refers to a gun designed to fire heavy-load metal cartridges or shells.

mainspring–A strong spring, a.k.a. an energy storage device that operates the striker or hammer of a firearm.

Mannlicher stock–A slender forend that extends to the muzzle.

match–A treated cord (cotton or hemp) used for ignition in matchlock firearms.

matchlock–An early firearm with a firing mechanism that held a smoldering, treated cord (match) which would burn until it reached a barrel opening (touch hole), explode the powder, discharging a bullet.

metallic sight–A firearm sight to aid a user’s aim but is not telescopic.

micrometer sight–A sight that is finely adjustable.

military firearm–An informal term, generally implying a pistol with accessories that is suited for military rather than civilian use.

militia–Technically refers to any group of armed citizenry.

misfire–When cartridge fails to fire due to it or a firearm being defective.

Mississippi rifle–Slang term for the U.S. Rifle M1841. The name comes from their use by a group of U.S. Volunteers from Mississippi who were commanded by Jefferson Davis in the Mexican War.

monte carlo stock–A stock with an elevated comb that is typically used with rifles equipped with telescopic sights.

mortar–An artillery piece used to fire shells over short ranges at very high trajectories.

Mouse gun–Derogatory term for any small caliber (low powered) gun.

mouth–A cartridge’s open end that accepts a bullet.

multi-barreled–A gun with more than one barrel (ex. double-barreled shotgun or derringer).

mushroomed bullet–Describes a bullet’s nose which has expanded after striking a target.

musket–A long-barreled, flared end firearm with a smooth bore. It was a single-shot weapon, loaded through its muzzle.

musketoon–A musket with a modified barrel for use by soldiers on horseback.

muzzle–A barrel’s open end that is a projectile’s exit.

muzzle brake–A muzzle with an accessory or a modification that acts to control gas expansion which, in turn, reduces the amount of gun recoil.

muzzleloader–The earliest forerunner of modern firearms. Such guns require powder and projectiles to be separately loaded through either the muzzle or, with revolvers, through cylinder chambers.

- N -

National Firearms Act of 1934–Federal act that regulates firearm ownership and sales and registration of certain classes of firearms

National Rifle Association–This organization is an advocate of the public’s right to own guns, provides training related to safe gun use, and sponsors firearm competitions on a national basis.

needle gun–An early rifle that was first fired using a bolt action.

negligent discharge–A term that is used to refer to unintended discharge of a firearm that causes bodily injury, property damage, etc. Gun advocates and proponents debate whether it should be synonymous with accidental discharge.

night sights–Iron sights that emit light in the dark to facilitate shooting low-light conditions.

nipple–The area of a firearm where flame accesses and ignites a cartridge’s powder charge.

nose–The forward point of a bullet.

NRA–See National Rifle Association.

- O -

obturation–The expansion of a cartridge case as it travels through a barrel or muzzle. The expansion seals gases and helps propel the bullet.

off-hand–Either firing a firearm without benefit of bracing or while using a non-dominant hand.

ogive–The curved nose of a missile, rocket or projectile.

open sight–A commonly used sight that is located at the rear of pistols rifles and shotguns and has an open notch at its top.

operating handle–See charging handle.

optical sight–Generic reference for laser and telescopic sights.

out of battery–Describes a breeching mechanism that is properly aligned for firing.

overshoot–Launching a projectile beyond a designated target site.

over travel–Refers to a trigger that continues backward movement after a shot is fired.

over-under–A two-barrel gun in which the barrels are vertically stacked.

- P -

+P/+P+–A method of increasing cartridge velocity by loading it to higher pressure than is normally used for its caliber.

pan–A small side-mounted container found in early firearms which held priming powder.

parkerizing–A gray or green, rust-resistant matted finish used on military guns.

partition bullet–A two-chambered, jacketed bullet. The front portion expands on impact and the rear piece remains intact to ensure penetration.

patch–Refers either to cloth used to clean a gun’s bore or a piece of leather or cloth that is wrapped around a bullet (round ball) before a ram rod is used to load it into a muzzle-loaded gun.

patch box–A covered compartment in the butt stock of a muzzle-loading rifle that stores, primarily, patches.

peep sight–See aperture sight.

pellets–Small round projectiles loaded in cartridge shells and/or the skirted projectiles used in pellet guns.

pellet gun–A rifle or pistol that fires pellets using compressed air or CO2.

Pennsylvania rifle–See Kentucky rifle.

pepperrox–Early form of a repeating pistol consisting of several barrels bored in a circle in a metal cylinder.

percussion cap–A small metal explosive-filled cup that is placed over the nipple of a percussion firearm.

percussion lock–An early firearm, such as a flintlock, which is operated via a gunlock that strikes a percussion cap.

personalized gun–A pistol that has been specially customized so that it may only be fired by an authorized user. A magnetic or electronic system is used so that only the authorized person can release the firing mechanism.

pin gun–A type of automatic pistol with an extended muzzle that is weighted to control recoil. It was originally developed for shooting bowling pins and is now used in all shooting competitions.

pistol–Any variety of gun, including revolvers, which may be readily held and fired in one hand.

pistol grip–The protrusion on the handgun, or on the buttstock or front portion of a shoulder-operated gun, which allows the weapon to be comfortably held by a hand.

plinking–Describes the very common practice of firing at various inanimate targets such as cans, bottles, etc.

poor (NRA Condition Standard)–Major and minor parts replaced; major replacement parts required and extensive restoration needed; metal deeply pitted; principal lettering, numerals and design obliterated; wood badly scratched, bruised, cracked, or broken; mechanically inoperative; generally undesired as a collector’s firearm.

pope rib–A ribbed barrel designed to facilitate a forward-mounted scope.

porting–Altering the location of a gun’s ejection port or drilling gas vents in a barrel to reduce the harm caused by gasses and to increase accuracy (by reducing recoil).

practical shooting–A sporting activity involving the simulation of the environment in which small arms are used.

primer–The part of a cartridge that is ignited to propel a bullet.

proof mark–A stamp applied to a firearm to indicate its passage of a proof test.

proof test–Testing a firearm’s barrel and action strength by firing overloaded ammunition.

propellant–Refers to the source that propels a projectile such as ignited powder charge in a firearm or, in pellet guns, compressed air or CO2.

pump action–An action that functions via a slide that moves parallel to the barrel. Rear motion acts as an ejector and forward motion loads and secures the weapon for firing.

pumpkin ball–A lead ball (large) that is loaded into and fired by shotguns.

pyrodex–Trade name for a type of black powder substitute.

- Q -

Quaker gun–Refers to a fake, usually wooden gun, used as a prop.

- R -

racking the slide–Pulling a slide to its rearmost position and letting it spring forward which loads a chamber in a semi-automatic handgun.

ramrod–A wood or metal rod for loading a wad and bullet into the barrel of a muzzle-loader.

reactive targets–Targets that respond to bullet strikes (burst, fall over, emit smoke, or emit noise).

receiver–See action.

receiver ring–The part of the receiver that is threaded to allow attachment of a barrel.

recoil –The reactive, often violent, backwards force that occurs after a firearm has been fired.

recoilless–Refers to a firearm (usually a rifle) designed or modified to fire with minimum recoil (kickback action).

recoil pad–A soft material pad that is attached (or built-into) a gun’s butt end in order to reduce the impact of a gun’s recoil.

recoil shield–Refers to metal extensions on the frame of a gun which prevents cartridges from sliding off of a cylinder as well as protect exposed cartridge primers.

recoil spring–A spring that repositions a gun slide back into firing alignment (battery).

reload–A previously used cartridge that has been reassembled with a new charge and projectile.

repeating firearm–A firearm capable of being fired repeatedly without manual effort by its user.

revolver–Typically a pistol with a multi-chambered cylinder that rotates to line-up each chamber with a single barrel and firing pin.

R.F.–Rim fire.

rib–A raised surface, which is located along the top of a gun barrel and is used as a sight.

ricochet–A projectile that’s diverted in another direction after initial impact.

rifle–A shoulder gun having a barrel with a rifled bore.

rifled slug–A cylinder-shaped projectile designed to be fired by a shotgun.

rifled/rifling–Refers to cutting spiral grooves into a gun's bore. This results in a projectile being spun when shot, creating a more accurate (stable) flight.

rimfire–A cartridge with a rim that contains primer.

riot gun–A term for a short barreled repeating shotgun.

round–See cartridge.

- S -

S & W–Abbreviation for Smith & Wesson, prominent American maker of revolvers and firearms since the 1850s.

sabot–A smaller caliber cartridge encased in a larger bore carrier. This modified cartridge allows a larger caliber firearm to shoot smaller caliber ammunition.

safety–A firearm accessory designed to prevent discharge by locking the firing mechanism.

Saturday night special–A pejorative term that originated as a catch-all reference to very inexpensive handguns that were used in weekend crimes and violent altercations.

sawed off–Generally refers to a short-barreled rifle or shot-gun; implying a firearm that’s been illegally altered for concealment.

sawed-off rifle–Refers to a rifle with a barrel length of less than 16”.

sawed-off shotgun–Refers to a shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18".

schnabel forend–A beak-like curved or carved shape at the forend.

scope–See telescopic sight.

sear–The part of a firearm that keeps a hammer cocked until the trigger is pulled.

selective-fire–A firearm that, at the user’s option, can be fired automatically, semi-automatically or, sometimes, in rapid bursts.

selector–Depending upon the firearm, it is a device that allows the user to choose among barrels or among types and rate of firing actions.

semi-automatic–A firearm that, with each pull of a trigger, fires, ejects and reloads a single cartridge.

semi-pistol grip–A smaller version of a pistol grip.

semi-wadcutter–A bullet with cone-shaped nose and a sharp edge meant for carving full holes in targets.

serpentine–See matchlock.

shell–The material that surrounds and holds the charge and/or projectile and which is typically made of paper or plastic with a metal head. Also, the exploding projectiles fired by cannons.

shot–See pellets.

shot dispersion–See dispersion.

shotgun–A shoulder gun with smooth-bored barrel(s) that is designed to fire shells filled with multiple projectiles which vary in size. The projectiles spray out when shot, resulting in a weapon that is effective at close-range.

shotshell–See shell.

short action–A rifle designed to use shorter cartridges.

side-by-side shotgun–See double-barrel shotgun.

side plates–Ornamental metal plates that simulate a side lock gun.

silencer–A misnomer for an illegal firearm accessory that, when attached to a muzzle, substantially reduces the noise made by the discharge.

silhouette shooting–A competition where participants fire at (usually animal-shaped) metal targets that are placed at different distances. May involve either pistols or rifles.

single action–See single shot.

single-shot–A gun mechanism that requires ammunition to be manually loaded in the gun's chamber before each discharge.

skeet–A competition where participants, armed with shotguns, test their ability to hit fragile clay targets that are launched into the air at different angles, planes, and heights.

sleeve–See barrel liner.

slide-action–See pump action.

sling–The strap attached to a rifle to aid in carrying the weapon.

sling swivel–The metal part that attaches a sling to a rifle.

slug–See rifled slug.

small arms–Firearms designed for use by an individual or individuals.

smallbore–Another name for a .22 caliber firearm.

smokeless powder–See gunpowder.

smoothbore–The interior of a barrel without rifling.

snub-nosed–Typically refers to a revolver with an unusually short barrel.

soft point–A bullet with a metal jacket but an exposed nose which allows it to expand upon hitting a target.

SP–Abbreviation for a soft point bullet.

speed loader–A round device or clip containing a set of cartridges that allows for simultaneous loading of a cylinder.

speed strip–A small, narrow rubber mat where cartridges are placed and that facilitates quicker loading.

spitzer bullet–A sharp-pointed, long ogived bullet.

sporting clays–A shotgun firing competition that simulates field conditions. It is a combination of skeet and trap shooting.

spray (a.k.a spray and pray)–Attempting to hit a target by rapidly firing a large amount of ammunition.

staggered column magazine–A magazine consisting of two staggered columns of cartridges that increases a magazine’s capacity but not its length.

stock–The firearm component to which a barreled action is attached. It allows a firearm to be held and used.

stopping power–See wound trauma incapacitation.

stripper clip–See clip.

striker–See firing pin.

submachine gun–A firearm that automatically fires pistol ammunition and that is designed for close combat.

SWC–Abbreviation for semi-wadcutter.

- T -

take down–A gun which can be easily taken apart for carrying or shipping.

tang–The portion of a receiver that extends and fits into a stock.

tang safety–A device that is connected to a receiver in order to bar the use of a gun’s firing mechanism.

target holder–Any item used to secure other items that are used as targets for practicing shooting.

Tear gas–A chemical spray that causes severe eye irritation and coughing. It is used to temporarily incapacitate targets.

teflon–Refers to metal bullets that are coated with this trade name synthetic or similar materials. The coating is merely to protect a firearm’s rifling rather than affecting the efficiency of the bullets.

telescopic sight–A small arms sight that uses optical lenses that provide a magnified view.

throat–The slender portion of a chamber that connects to a firearm’s bore.

timing–The alignment of the chambers in a revolver with the bore. In a revolver which has been used a lot, the timing can be "off," so that the chambers do not perfectly align with the bore.

toe–The bottom of a rifle or shotgun butt.

top strap–The exposed upper part of a revolver or pistol frame.

trajectory–The curved, aerial path traveled by a projectile.

trap(shoot)–An event where shotgun-armed participants fire at fragile targets that are launched away from them at different angles and heights.

trap stock–A heavier, elongated shotgun stock designed for trap shooting.

trigger–The manually operated firearm component that causes its discharge.

trigger break–Point at which the gun’s hammer is released, firing a shot.

trigger locks–Devices such as blocks or covers which deny access to a pistol’s trigger.

trombone action–See pump or slide action.

tube or tubular magazine–A tube-shaped magazine (ammunition holder) where cartridges are stored end-to-end.

twist–A measurement of a barrel’s rifling referring to the length of barrel (in inches) it takes before the rifle spiral forms a complete turn.

- U -

under hammer–A type of lock in which the hammer pivots in a vertical arc, striking the nipple on the underside of the barrel.

unload–To remove ammunition from a gun.

- V -

varmint rifle–Any small caliber rifle that are highly accurate up to 400 yards. Used for “varmints” (pests, rodents) that are not subject to game (hunting) laws.

velocity–A measure of a projectile’s speed in the direction it has been fired.

vertical pistol grip–A larger, more pronounced version of a regular pistol grip.

very good–All original parts; none to 30% original finish; original metal surfaces smooth with all edges sharp; clear lettering, and numerals on metal; wood slightly scratched or bruised, bore disregarded for collectors’ firearms.

- W -

wadcutter–A flat-headed bullet designed to “punch” out holes in paper targets, making it easier to score target efficiency.

WC–Abbreviation for wadcutter.

W.C.F.–Winchester center fire.

weapon–Refers to an object’s use, rather than nature; so, a weapon is any item that is used in offensive or defensive combat.

weaver stance–A special shooting style where pistols are gripped with both hands to minimize the effects of recoil, increasing accuracy.

wheel gun–Slang for revolver.

wheel-lock–An early firearm mechanism where a spring-actuated wheel with serrated edges is spun against a piece of iron pyrite. The resultant sparks then ignites the charge held in the firearm’s pan.

wildcat cartridges–Cartridges that are made and used by private parties.

windage–Refers to horizontally adjusting the aim of a firearm to account for the effect of wind.

wound trauma incapacitation–The subjective description of a given weapon’s (or ammunition’s) ability to prevent a target from attacking or escaping or to incapacitate a target.

W.R.F.–Winchester rim fire.

WTI–See wound trauma incapacitation.

- X -

No Entries

- Y -

youth dimensions–A firearm that is lighter or smaller to accommodate its use by women or youth.

- Z -

zero–The farthest distance at which a projectile accurately hits its target or the practice of properly aligning a firearm’s sights.

zundstift–See firing pin.