After the firing pin strikes the primer, what is the next event in the firing sequence?

After the firing pin strikes the primer, what is the next event in the firing sequence?

• A. The primer explodes and sparks the gunpowder
• B. The powder explodes
• C. The bullet is formed
• D. The trigger fires

Answer: (A)

Primer detonation lights the powder. When the firing pin strikes the primer, the primer’s sensitive compound detonates, producing flame and pressure that ignite the main powder charge inside the cartridge. That rapid ignition of the powder creates high-pressure gas that drives the bullet down the barrel. The trigger’s role is to release the firing pin; the projectile isn’t formed during firing and the powder isn’t exploding as a separate blast in the barrel. It’s the ignition of the powder by the primer that starts the whole sequence.

Primer detonation lights the powder. When the firing pin strikes the primer, the primer’s sensitive compound detonates, producing flame and pressure that ignite the main powder charge inside the cartridge. That rapid ignition of the powder creates high-pressure gas that drives the bullet down the barrel. The trigger’s role is to release the firing pin; the projectile isn’t formed during firing and the powder isn’t exploding as a separate blast in the barrel. It’s the ignition of the powder by the primer that starts the whole sequence.