Archives: Glossary

A type of firing mechanism, wherein the hammer or striker after forward movement retracts slightly to a rest position.

The basic unit of a firearm which houses the firing and breech mechanism and to which the barrel and stock are assembled. In revolvers, pistols, and break-open guns, it is called the Frame.

That part of the receiver on bolt action rifles that arches over the rear of the bolt hole. If cut to allow the passage of the bolt handle it is known as a Split Bridge.

The front part of the receiver on bolt action rifles into which the barrel is fitted.

Any rear sight fitted to the receiver of a firearm, but usually refers to an aperture or “peep” sight.

A bolt with a counterbore in the forward end to accommodate the head of the cartridge case.

The cutting of a new chamber in a barrel to accommodate a cartridge of the same bore diameter.

The rearward movement of a firearm resulting from firing a cartridge or shotshell. Sometimes informally called “Kick”.

Any device that reduces the perceived recoil of a firearm.

A block or plate on the bottom of a receiver and/or barrel to transfer the recoil to the stock.