Whether used for an esculent hunting trip, in shooting sports, or for self-defense, a basic understanding (at a minimum) of your firearm and its ammunition is crucial for safety, performance, and overall satisfaction of your shooting experience.

  Ammunition, in this context, refers to the finished cartridge assembly that may include components such as projectiles, propellants, primers and casings. Theoretically, each type of ammunition is designed for a particular purpose.

  Projectile: Although not present in all ammunition (blanks, etc.), this is the ‘bullet’ itself, and is usually available in several weight classes (by grain). There are common standard weights for many calibers of long-gun and hand-gun ammunition, and ‘hand-loaders’ can vary them by hundreds more.

  Propellant: Although not present in all ammunition (dummies, etc.), this is the chemical mixture (powder) placed inside the casing that burns rapidly on ignition.

  Primer: Although not present in all ammunition (rim-fire, etc.), this is usually the component that is struck by a mechanical firing-pin, igniting and causing a more controlled burn of the propellant.

  Casing: Although not present in all ammunition (caseless ammo, etc.), this is a component that encapsulates all of the other components to create the cartridge assembly.

  Cartridge: This is the complete assembly commonly referred to (in multiples) as ammunition. Historically, civilian availability has been limited in size; as small as 2mm, to as large as 12.7mm (.50cal). Excluding shotguns, ammunition above .50 caliber has been delegated to military type applications.