Definition

Noun: - A small, hardened metal pin in a firearm that strikes the primer of a cartridge to ignite the propellant and fire the bullet.

Usage

• The firing pin is a crucial internal component of most firearms.
• A broken or worn firing pin can cause a weapon to misfire.
• The design of the firing pin varies between different types of guns.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• Firing pin block: A safety mechanism that physically blocks the firing pin from moving forward unless the trigger is deliberately pulled.
  • The pistol's firing pin block prevents an accidental discharge if the gun is dropped.
• Firing pin spring: A spring that returns the firing pin to its resting position after it strikes.
  • A weak firing pin spring can cause light primer strikes.

Variants and Related Words

• Striker: Often used synonymously with "firing pin," especially in modern handguns where the pin is part of a longer, spring-loaded striker mechanism.
• Primer: The small, impact-sensitive explosive component in the base of a cartridge that the firing pin strikes.
• Percussion cap: A historical precursor; a small cap containing explosive compound struck by a hammer, fulfilling a similar function to a primer struck by a firing pin.

Synonyms

• Striker (in many modern firearm contexts)
• Hammer nose (in some specific revolver designs)

Notes

• The term "firing pin" is a compound noun. It refers specifically to the pin-like component. Related terms like "firing pin channel" (the hole it moves in) or "firing pin stop" (a plate that retains it) are separate, distinct terms in firearms terminology.

Noun

1. striker that ignites the charge by striking the primer