Firearm Basics: Parts of a Cartridge

This video explains the dangerous phenomenon of Deflagration to Detonation Transition (DDT) in firearms. Professional gunsmith Guido details how gunpowder normally deflagrates, creating controlled pressure. He warns that DDT, where gunpowder detonates, can occur due to improper loading, especially with low powder charges in long cases, leading to catastrophic firearm failure. The video emphasizes meticulous reloading practices to avoid this risk.

Chris Cheng, a professional marksman and Top Shot champion, breaks down the components of rifle cartridges and how to select the correct ammunition. He explains the difference between caliber measurement systems (imperial and metric) and emphasizes checking the rifle's barrel for the correct caliber stamp. The video details the function of the primer, gunpowder, and bullet within a cartridge, differentiating between rimfire and centerfire designs.

This video from NRA Publications introduces fundamental ammunition nomenclature, emphasizing the importance of correct terminology for safe and effective firearm use. It defines key terms like 'ammunition,' 'cartridge,' 'bullet,' 'round,' and 'shell,' providing examples of common calibers and their applications. Understanding these terms ensures users select the appropriate ammunition for their firearms and intended purposes.

This video provides a foundational understanding of cartridge terminology, explaining key components like the projectile's boat tail, flat base, and ogive, and how to measure them for reloading consistency. It details the elements of a loaded cartridge (projectile, case, primer, powder) and differentiates between various case types including rimmed, non-rimmed, bottlenecked, rimless, recessed rim, and belted magnum cartridges, explaining their headspace mechanisms and design purposes. The instructor emphasizes the importance of understanding these terms for shooters and reloaders.

This video from NRA Publications explains the four common materials used for cartridge cases: brass, steel, aluminum, and nickel-plated brass. It details the economic and practical reasons for using each material, their visual characteristics, and why understanding these differences is important for firearm owners. The instruction is geared towards beginners seeking foundational knowledge about ammunition.

This video explores the motivations behind reloading ammunition, categorizing reloaders into those who 'like' to reload and those who 'have to'. The former often seek accuracy and performance, enjoying the process, while the latter are typically high-volume shooters (PRS, Benchrest, IDPA) for whom purchasing new ammunition is cost-prohibitive. The discussion touches on component costs, market availability, and the practice of stockpiling components for cost savings and hobby continuity.

This video from NRA Publications provides an in-depth look at the manufacturing process of Hornady ammunition, from bullet creation to final packaging. It details the steps involved in forming bullets, annealing and shaping cartridge cases, and rigorous quality control testing to ensure product reliability. The expert-level instruction highlights the precision engineering and domestic manufacturing of Hornady products in Grand Island, Nebraska, USA.

This video provides an expert overview of the British L1A1 SLR, a variant of the FN FAL. Mark A. Keefe IV, Editor-in-Chief of American Rifleman, details its design differences from the Belgian FN FAL, its extensive service history in conflicts like the Falklands War, and its eventual replacement. The segment highlights the rifle's robust construction, its adoption strategy by British Ordnance, and its legacy in firearm history.

This video documents a startling bobcat attack on a turkey hunter. The hunter's calls, intended for turkeys, attracted a bobcat which stalked and then pounced. The hunter's reaction caused the bobcat to retreat, highlighting the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters and the importance of situational awareness.

This video details the revival of Remington Ammunition under Vista Outdoor's ownership, focusing on the Lonoke, Arkansas facility. It highlights the brand's historical significance, the challenges faced during bankruptcy, and the strategic steps taken by Vista Outdoor to restore production, quality, and employee morale. The narrative emphasizes a commitment to American manufacturing and supporting the Second Amendment.