Firearm Basics | Ammunition Nomenclature

Ammunition and its nomenclature can be a confusing subject, particularly for new shooters who are just learning the fundamentals of firearms.

posted on April 10, 2020
** 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. **

Ammunition and its nomenclature can be a confusing subject, particularly for new shooters who are just learning the fundamentals of firearms. Before you can properly feed it, you'll need to learn basic terminology for ammunition and its components. Watch the video above.

Latest

Melloni Benelli Nova 3 Shotgun Lede
Melloni Benelli Nova 3 Shotgun Lede

Review: Benelli Nova 3 Pump-Action Shotgun

Benelli might have set a new benchmark for what we expect out of a workhorse scattergun.

The Armed Citizen® August 29, 2025

A woman staved off a violent attacker with her legally licensed firearm.

SLG2, Inc. Announces Hunt Like A Girl Tennessee Experience Contest

This exclusive event offers one winner the opportunity to participate in a guided tower pheasant hunt, receive professional firearms instruction and a tour of the Beretta USA factory.

NRA Files Challenge to Florida’s Longstanding Waiting Period Law

NRA-ILA says it is confident that our challenge today will be successful and serve as another critical step in rehabilitating Second Amendment rights in the Sunshine State.

Field Care Tips for Great Game Meat

If your venison, wild turkey or other game meat tastes funky, it might be because you’ve ignored some of the rules of proper field care.

Downrange with Detroit’s LAIDies

After an NRA Board member—creator of one of the country’s largest and most popular women’s shooting events—fell ill, volunteers rallied to carry on his legacy, drawing more than 1,800 women to the range and pulling off the event’s 14th year with a bang.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.