What happens when the trigger is pulled on a firearm?

When the trigger is pulled on a firearm, the action that occurs is the hammer striking the back of the cartridge, which in turn ignites the primer. This is crucial to the firearm’s operation, as it triggers the firing sequence that leads to the projectile being expelled from the barrel.

In most firearms, pulling the trigger releases a mechanism that allows the hammer (in hammer-fired firearms) or the firing pin (in striker-fired firearms) to move forward. In the case of conventional firearms that utilize hammers, this action results in the hammer striking the primer on the cartridge. The primer is a small explosive device that, when struck, ignites the gunpowder inside the cartridge, causing the round to fire.

Understanding this process is fundamental in firearms training and safety, as it highlights the direct relationship between trigger manipulation and the firing of a projectile, which is critical to responsible firearm use. Being aware of how the mechanical components interact when the trigger is engaged enhances a user's proficiency and promotes safe handling practices.