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

NRA Women The Armed Citizen Aiming A Pistol
NRA Women The Armed Citizen Aiming A Pistol

The Armed Citizen® February 6, 2026

In the case of machete versus handgun, the outcome is probably a foregone conclusion..

Kim Rhode Receives the NSSF Ken Sedlecky Lifetime Achievement Award

The Olympic great and Team Winchester member received the award at the NSSF Members Meeting during the 2026 SHOT Show.

Basic Wilderness First Aid

Here are a few tips for handling some of the more common scenarios you or your party may find yourself in when out in the wilderness.

 

Federal-Sponsored Shooter Kayle Browning Wins Gold in Abu Dhabi

The January event took place at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club in Al Ain City.

Camouflage & Concealment Techniques in Nature

We take a closer look at the various camouflage techniques found in nature, why they are used, and how these methods can provide hunters, wildlife photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts ideas about how they themselves can better blend in.

How to Improve Your Firearm Student’s Confidence

Ultimately, a student’s confidence might be dependent upon his or her instructor. Here are a few tips to making sure they are performing to the best of their ability.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.