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

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

Five Stages Of Hunter Lede Nssf
Five Stages Of Hunter Lede Nssf

Throwback Thursday: 5 Stages of a Hunter

All hunters, it is posited, go through five stages in their lives. Where are you?

Video How-To: Keep Turkey Hunting Fun for Newbies

Here's turkey huntress extraordinaire Melissa Bachman's recipe for a family-friendly hunt.

New Guns 2025: Smith & Wesson M&P FPC Rifle in 10mm

This pistol-caliber carbine folds up for easy storage, is ready for all kinds of accessories, and fires the hard-hitting 10mm.

Friends of NRA: Supporting the Future of Our Shooting Sports

NRA EVP & CEO Doug Hamlin explains how spending time and making friends with fellow 2A supporters helps ensure the future!

Henry Repeating Arms Moves to Wisconsin

Cheeseheads, rejoice! This all-American manufacturer is consolidating in your neck of the woods.

NRA Family Events: Palmetto State Armory's "The Gathering" 2025

If you live in the South Carolina area, this family-friendly shooting event and expo is well worth a visit this weekend!

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.