Love at First Shot | S1 E4: "Ammo Anatomy 101"

Published on October 14, 2014
Duration: 9:11

This episode of 'Love at First Shot' demystifies ammunition for new shooters, explaining the components of cartridges and the differences between rimfire and centerfire. It covers common handgun calibers like 9mm, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum, as well as popular rifle rounds such as .223/5.56, .308, and 12-gauge shotgun shells, detailing their typical applications from plinking to hunting. The video also clarifies the gauge system for shotguns and the function of shotgun slugs.

Quick Summary

Ammunition cartridges consist of a case, powder, and a primer. Rimfire cartridges have priming compound in the rim, while centerfire cartridges have a primer in the center. Common handgun calibers include 9mm and .38 Special, and popular rifle calibers are .223/5.56 and .308. Shotgun gauge, like 12 or 20, indicates barrel size relative to lead ball weight.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction to Ammunition Types
  2. 00:41Meet the Experts at Hornady
  3. 01:24What's Inside a Cartridge?
  4. 02:09Common Handgun Calibers Explained
  5. 02:22Rimfire vs. Centerfire Ammunition
  6. 02:50Moving to Centerfire Handgun Rounds
  7. 03:34Rifle Ammunition Overview
  8. 04:05Common Rifle Cartridge Sizes
  9. 04:43Rifle Round Applications
  10. 05:26Shotgun Ammunition Explained
  11. 05:41Shotgun Shell Components
  12. 06:17Understanding Shotgun Gauge
  13. 07:00Shotgun Slugs for Hunting
  14. 07:47Ammunition Accessories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic components of a firearm cartridge?

A firearm cartridge typically consists of a brass case, which is hollowed to hold gunpowder. It also has a primer pocket at the base containing the primer. When the trigger is pulled, the firing pin strikes the primer, igniting the gunpowder and creating pressure to propel the bullet.

What is the difference between rimfire and centerfire ammunition?

Rimfire ammunition has its priming compound spun into the outer rim of the case, which is struck by the firing pin. Centerfire ammunition has a distinct primer located in the center of the case base, which is the point of impact for the firing pin.

What are some common handgun calibers for new shooters?

For new shooters, common handgun calibers include .380 ACP, known for its manageable recoil. More frequently encountered are 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP for semi-automatic pistols, and .38 Special and .357 Magnum for revolvers.

How is shotgun gauge determined?

Shotgun gauge is determined by the number of lead balls, of a diameter equal to the barrel's bore, that would make up one pound. For example, 12 lead balls of a 12-gauge barrel's diameter would weigh one pound, making it larger than a 20-gauge.

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