Glossary of Firearms Terms

 

 

Caliber

Caliber refers to diameter of the hole bored into the barrel of the firearm and the diameter of a bullet.  Calibers are typically measured in millimeters, hundredths of an inch or thousandths of an inch but may not be exact measurements. 

For example, a .357 Magnum and a .38 Special are both considered 38 caliber even though the bullet diameter is actually 357 thousands of an inch.  Each firearm is rated to fire one or more specific calibers.

Most firearms have the caliber for rifles and handguns or gauge for shotguns clearly marked on the barrel or side of the receiver. 

Example calibers:  .22, .380, 9mm, .45, 10mm, .38, .357, 5.56/.223

 

Cartridge

Not to be confused with a bullet, a cartridge is a single round of ammunition made up of the the entire casing, primer, projectile and powder.

 

Concealed Carry

Concealed carry, also known as CCW (Carrying a Concealed Weapon), is a term used to describe carrying a firearm in an concealed manner.  It is very important that you understand your state and local laws regarding how you may lawfully carry a concealed weapon and where you may carry the concealed weapon. Many states may require you to obtain a special license before you can carry a concealed weapon.

Alternate Terminology:

  • Carrying a Concealed Weapon (CCW)
  • Concealed Carry
  • Conceal and Carry

See Wikipedia.org Page

 

Constitution of the United States

The Constitution of the United States is a document signed by delegates to the Constitutional Convention on September 17, 1787 which established America's national government and the basic rights of its citizens.  We encourage every United States citizen to read their Constitution.

Read the United States Constitution

 

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