Letter: M

A type of checkering tool.

The open end of a cartridge case or shotshell, from which the projectile or shot charge is expelled in firing.

A stock with a raised comb to bring the eye in alignment with the sight.

The solid section at the breech end of some multi-barrel guns into which the barrels are inserted.

A failure of the priming mixture to be initiated after the primer has been struck an adequate blow by a firing-pin or the failure of the initiated primer to ignite the powder.

Any malfunction during the feed cycle of a repeating firearm resulting in the failure of a cartridge or shell to enter the chamber completely. Also known as Failure to Feed.

A visual phenomenon that appears to displace a target from its true position through a shimmering effect. It is caused by heated air that deflects light rays.

Military firearm with long barrel and fore-end or forearm extending nearly to muzzle.

The ignition source for most military muzzle loading rifles of the Civil War era, usually consisting of a copper alloy cup containing the priming mix. They are larger than percussion caps and typically incorporate a continuous or segmented flanges (Wings) at the cup mouth for ease of handling.

The end of a gun barrel from which the bullet or shot emerges.