What component of a firearm is responsible for starting the explosive sequence that ignites the powder?

What component of a firearm is responsible for starting the explosive sequence that ignites the powder?

• A. Primer
• B. Stock
• C. Trigger
• D. Barrel

Answer: (A)

Ignition comes from the primer. The primer is a small, sensitive explosive located in the base of the cartridge. When the firing mechanism strikes it, the primer detonates, creating a flame and heat that travel into the main powder charge. This ignites the powder, producing rapidly expanding gas that propels the bullet down the barrel. The stock is just the grip/support and doesn’t start the explosion; the trigger releases the firing mechanism that allows the firing pin to strike the primer; the barrel guides the bullet after ignition.

Ignition comes from the primer. The primer is a small, sensitive explosive located in the base of the cartridge. When the firing mechanism strikes it, the primer detonates, creating a flame and heat that travel into the main powder charge. This ignites the powder, producing rapidly expanding gas that propels the bullet down the barrel. The stock is just the grip/support and doesn’t start the explosion; the trigger releases the firing mechanism that allows the firing pin to strike the primer; the barrel guides the bullet after ignition.