What Are the Different Parts of a Gun?

Although diversity among firearms is staggering, all firearms comprise a few specific parts. These particular elements work together to create a "gun," which is an object that launches a small projectile by harnessing a controlled explosion.

Ignition Mechanism

The ignition mechanism is the heart of the gun, where the essential action occurs; it is the means by which the explosion is created. Generally, this is accomplished by pressing a lever called a trigger, which mechanically releases a force that strikes the primer of the ammunition, causing it to ignite.

Barrel

The barrel holds the ammunition prior to firing and stabilizes the projectile after it is fired. The inside of the barrel is called the bore. Some bores are smooth while others are rifled, which means a spiral shape in the inside of the barrel causes the bullet to spin as it flies through the air, much like a football, which improves accuracy.

Stabilization System

In order for a gun to hit its target accurately, it must be stabilized so that movement is minimized. This can be accomplished by a device as simple as a handle (as in a handgun) or by something more complex, such as a stock (as in a rifle), which is held against the operator's body. A larger gun may be mounted on a heavy wheeled chassis or even bolted to stationary emplacements.

Aiming System

Every gun has an aiming mechanism whereby the operator can predict where the projectile will hit. The most common and also the most stable form of sighting for small arms is "iron sights." With iron sights, a front sight and a rear sight are lined up, thereby showing where the projectile will land. Modern small arms sometimes have special optical sighting systems with lighted or contrasting sights, which provide a more user-friendly method of aiming.

Ammunition

A bullet is a combination of a projectile, propellant, and primer. In modern small arms ammunition, these elements held together by a metal case. The primer contains a fast-burning, easily ignited chemical combination that begins the explosion when it is struck by the ignition mechanism. The propellant contains a slower-burning chemical combination that creates expansive gasses, which force the projectile out of the barrel and through the air.

Safety

Often, a gun will also have a safety mechanism that prevents the gun from firing accidentally. Usually, a small latch on the side of the gun prevents the inner workings from operating even if the trigger is pulled. Before the gun can be fired, the safety must be unlatched. Another type of safety is a double trigger; the first part of the trigger must be pulled back so that it is flush with the main part of the trigger, which then must be pulled back all the way in order to fire the gun. This prevents firing when the main trigger is merely snagged, not purposefully pulled.

References

• Military Small Arms of the 20th Century; Ian Hogg; 2000