A Beginner's Guide to How Ammo Works

If you're new to firearms, you're also new to ammo. Need a primer? Watch this latest Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS video hosted by shooting champion Julie Golob.

posted on June 14, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

New gun owners tend to focus on their newly acquired piece of hardware, which is designed for their personal safety, for recreational shooting—or both. It's an awesome moment when they realize they've joined millions of other law-abiding Americans in exercising their Second Amendment rights. As such, their first goal is usually to make sure they learn to shoot safely and properly—all noble endeavors. Beyond the basics of pistol operation, however, is the equally important topic of ammunition. If you are a new gun owner, or are among those who take what you put down your barrel for granted, this new video in the second season of Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS series is for you.

In “How Does Ammo Work?” Smith & Wesson pro-shooter Julie Golob offers a crash course in ammo lingo—for instance, what exactly is a bullet versus a cartridge? How does a bullet make its way out of the barrel? The type, size and weight of the ammunition also plays a huge role in how the gun feels when you pull the trigger—otherwise known as recoil. And of course, understanding the difference between center-fire and rimfire ammo is critical. There are many other things to know, too. So if you’re just getting started and feel the need for an ammo primer, check out this latest video in the new GUNSMARTS Series 2.

Latest

Smith Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Viridian Sights Lede
Smith Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Viridian Sights Lede

Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Now with Viridian RFX1 Optic

The new model ships out of the box with the optic already mounted.

6 Ways to Make the Range and Classroom a Safe Place for Firearm Students

Teaching marksmanship is important, but instilling a safety mindset and proper behavior will leave a lasting impression.

Review: Springfield Armory Echelon 4.0C Comp Pistol

This compensated polymer-framed 9 mm compact hits the just-right mark in a variety of ways.

The Armed Citizen® Reload July 3, 2026

Two women maintained composure and connected their shots on target—violent aggressors with intent on causing them bodily harm.

Gettysburg: Remembering the Women Who Served

While we celebrate the anniversary of the independence of our country this Fourth of July, it is also the anniversary of another major event in American history. Despite a ban on women serving in either army, some felt a call to fight in the Civil War.

Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary with a Bang

You only get to call it a semiquincentennial once, so many gun makers are creatively displaying their American pride with these limited-edition firearms. Check out a few of them here.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.