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

Nra Logo 5
Nra Logo 5

NRA, Other Leading 2A Groups Challenge the Constitutionality of the National Firearms Act

The case, Brown v. ATF, was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri.

The Armed Citizen® August 1, 2025

A Texas woman being assaulted by an ex-boyfriend literally took matters into her own hands.

A Simple Guide to Red-Dot Footprints

Why doesn’t every red-dot site fit on every gun? What do I need to buy?

The NRA Has Something for Everyone

American gun owners join the NRA for many reasons that pertain to their individual shooting sports activities, but all join for the common goal of the protection of their Second Amendment rights.

Understanding Holster Retention Levels

What do the different levels of holster retention mean, and which level is right for you?

New Guns 2025: Smith & Wesson M&P Shield X Series

The new iteration of the Shield series was designed with CCW versatility in mind.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.