AUTOMATIC EJECTOR

A device in break-open firearms which expels fired cases when the action is opened.

AUTOMATIC FEED MECHANISM

A system for reloading a firearm utilizing some of the energy realized from firing a cartridge.

AUTOMATIC PISTOL

A common but improperly used term applied to autoloading pistols in use today. Most current “automatic” pistols are truly semiautomatic in action only. See Semiautomatic.

AMMUNITION CODE NUMBER

A code number and/or letter(s) usually found on the carton that identifies a particular quantity of ammunition for its manufacturer.

AUTOMATIC RIFLE

A fully automatic shoulder firearm that starts firing when the trigger is pulled and continues until the trigger is released or ammunition is exhausted. The term should not be used in conjunction with semiautomatic firearms. See Semiautomatic.

AMMUNITION COLOR CODE

A method of distinguishing various gauges of shotshells and types of metallic ammunition by color or plating.

AUTOMATIC SAFETY

A safety device on some firearms intended to return to the On position when the action is opened.

AMMUNITION LOT

A continuously produced batch of ammunition uniquely identified by a code. Lot size is determined by the manufacturer as part of their manufacturing process.

ANGLE OF DEPARTURE

The angle formed between a horizontal line and the center line of the bore at the moment the projectile leaves the muzzle of the gun.