SWIVEL BOW

That part of a swivel which is in the form of an elongated loop and to which a sling or carrying strap is passed through or otherwise attached.

SWIVEL SLING

A metallic loop to which the sling is attached.

STANDING BREECH

The fixed vertical face of a frame, typical of a break-open firearm, which contains the striker(s) or firing pin(s).

STAR CRIMP

A type of closure of the mouth of a metallic case or shotshell in which the sidewalls are folded in a star-shaped pattern.

STAR GAUGE

A measuring instrument for determining internal diameters, often used to measure the inside diameter of a gun barrel.

STEADY-PIN

A projection at the end of a mainspring which fits into the lock plate of a side lock action gun.

STEEL JACKETED BULLET

Plated or clad steel is sometimes used as a substitute for gilding metal or copper in bullet jacket material.

STEEL SHOT

Soft steel pellets made specifically for use in shotshells.

STEM (STEMMING)

A failure of a cartridge to feed in which the bullet jams against the top or bottom of the chamber. Also called Cock-Up or Cock-Down.

STIPPLING

The roughing of wood or metal with a pointed tool. It is normally performed to provide a gripping or decorative surface. Also called Matting.