This section will walk you through the different parts of a gun and what they are used for. Keep in mind that certain parts or designs may vary by manufacturer, like Sig Sauer or GLOCK, so it is always important to make sure you spend time familiarizing yourself with whichever firearm you choose. The diagram above resembles a GEN4 or GEN 5 Glock 17/29/26.
The Frame (Grip)
Let’s start with where you hold your weapon. The frame of a gun serves as the primary point of contact between the shooter’s hand and the firearm. For handguns, the frame houses the magazine (in semi-automatic pistols) or the cylinder (in revolvers). In rifles and shotguns, the grip is usually part of the stock, allowing the shooter to maintain control and stability while aiming and firing the gun.
The Magazine
Simply put, the magazine is where you load your ammunition. Don’t call it a clip, though. Some beginners mistake magazines for clips, which are non-essential attachments that make it easier to load ammo.
The Chamber
The chamber is where bullets are held before being fired. Chambers are located in the rear of the barrel.
The Barrel
The barrel is one of the most crucial parts of a gun. Its primary function is to provide a controlled and directed path for the bullet, ensuring accuracy and consistency in the projectile’s trajectory. The length of the barrel varies by the size of your gun.
The Trigger
The trigger, located within the trigger guard, is the mechanism that you manipulate to fire your gun. Triggers release the firearm’s internal firing mechanism, such as the hammer or striker, which in turn strikes the primer of the ammunition, igniting the propellant and ultimately firing the bullet. Now, there are two main types of triggers, which vary a bit in performance.
Single-Action Triggers
Used by many rifles, shotguns, and “Old West” revolvers, single-action triggers get their name because the trigger is designed to complete one job, release the hammer or striker to fire the gun. This means that once the gun is fired, you would need to manually cock the hammer to fire again.
Double-Action Triggers
Double-action triggers are designed to both cock and release the hammer. This type of trigger is popular with service pistols and revolvers, as it allows for faster follow-up shots. An example of a popular firearm that utilizes the double-action trigger is the Sig Sauer P226.
The Muzzle
The muzzle is the part of a gun where the bullet exits when the gun is fired. It serves as the final point of guidance and control for the bullet as it leaves the firearm and enters its trajectory toward the intended target. A well-maintained and clean muzzle helps ensure consistent and accurate shots by preventing any potential obstructions or uneven wear that could negatively impact the bullet’s path.
The Slide
The slide is one of the most important parts of a gun. It serves as the moving part of the gun’s frame that slides along the top of the frame, covering the barrel. Its primary function is to facilitate the cycling of the gun during the firing process.
The slide also houses essential components like the firing pin or striker and the extractor, which play crucial roles in the firing process. Additionally, the slide typically features sights that help the shooter align the gun with the target for accurate shooting.
The Sights
A gun’s sights are aiming devices that help the shooter hit their target. The front and rear sights work together to provide a consistent and reliable point of reference when aiming. A gun’s front sight is located near the muzzle and may include a colored dot or insert to help enhance visibility.
The rear sight is situated closer to the shooter, typically towards the back of the gun. It usually features a notch or aperture through which the shooter aligns the front sight. Rear sights can be adjustable.
The Safety
To prevent accidental discharges, guns are equipped with a safety lever or switch. When switched to safe, a gun’s trigger is prevented from moving. Flipping this switch is a simple but crucial step in making sure you are safe when carrying a gun. Even when your gun is switched to safe, however, it is important to never point your firearm at anything you don’t intend to shoot.
To get a better picture of how these parts work together, check out the below video which shows how the different parts of a pistol work in tandem to accurately fire.