Video: What Makes a Firearm?

A firearm is nothing more than the sum of its parts ... and here are what the parts are, and how we describe them.

by
posted on March 25, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Frame, barrel, action, trigger, grip ... understanding what these terms mean and what part of your gun they describe is critical to gun safety. When it comes to guns, there are some universal constants but there are also many variations on the basic definition of a "gun." It doesn't help when the mainstream media has a tough time getting these terms straight (how often have you heard a "magazine" called a "clip" on TV?). In this great video courtesy of our friends at NRA Women, you'll get a simple, plain-English definition of what makes up a firearm and how those parts are properly defined.

Latest

Summer Frog Fun Lede
Summer Frog Fun Lede

From Pond to Pan, Frog-Hunting is Great Summer Fun

Get your gig, airgun, or .22 rifle and head for the water on a summer night and come away with some great eating!

First Impressions: CZ P-10 C Ported Pistol

Built for everyday carry and range performance, this new addition to CZ's lineup offers reduced recoil and other features new shooters will love.

Kyle Lamb Named Brand Ambassador for NRA America’s Rifle Challenge

"When I heard about the ARC program, its focus on the AR, and the NRA’s desire to provide AR training and ARC competitions, I wanted to be involved."

Y.E.S! NRA Foundation Awards $13,500 in College Scholarships

We're proud to announce the award recipients from the Y.E.S. Class of 2024!

KelTec Named Stage Sponsor for 2025 NRA World Shooting Championship

This year, KelTec will sponsor two competition stages, supplying innovative firearms for both professional and amateur divisions.

Throwback Thursday: Chinese Broomhandle Mausers

History may not always repeat itself, but it sure can rhyme.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.