Archives: Glossary

The total elapsed time that a projectile requires to travel a specific distance from the muzzle.

The bottom (lower) end of a buttplate and adjacent portion of the stock on a shoulder firearm.

An unmounted, portable handloading tool using a plier action for handloading centerfire cartridges. Also called Nutcracker Tool.

A projection which extends behind the breech end of the barrels on some breakopen firearms. When the gun is closed, it fits into a corresponding recess slot in the frame and is used for locking purposes.

That portion of a revolver frame which passes over the cylinder.

The closure disc over the top of the shot column held in place by a rolled crimp.

A shotgun with a short barrel designed for tactical applications.

To disassemble a firearm for cleaning, repair or transportation.

A type of firearm designed for ease of disassembly and transportation.

A rearward projecting tongue on a receiver or frame to which the buttstock is attached. Some parts of the operating mechanism of a firearm may also pass through the tang. A gun may have either or both an upper and lower tang.