Archives: Glossary

A single projectile fired from a shotgun. Also slang term for bullet after it has been fired from a firearm.

A process of determining the interior dimensions of a barrel or cylinder by measuring a deformable material which has been pressed through the bore.

A term that has numerous definitions (military, political, regulatory etc.). For the purpose of firearms that fall under SAAMI: See Sporting Arms.

General term applied in the United States to 17 and 22 caliber rimfire cartridges. Normally used for target shooting and small game hunting.

That portion of the stock between the rear of the action and the comb, which has the smallest circumference.

In America, any firearm or ammunition of the rimfire type with a lead alloy bullet not over 0.23” in diameter.

A propellant containing mainly nitrocellulose (single base) or both nitrocellulose and nitroglycerine (double base).

Firearm with unrifled bore, typically a shotgun.

A protective device to permit dry firing without damage to the firing-pin.

A design providing for exposure of a portion of the core at the nose of a jacketed bullet, to initiate expansion of the projectile upon impact.