Firearm Basics | Parts of a Firearm

posted on April 13, 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. **

If you or someone you know is new to firearms, this will help you learn proper terminology, and understand the basic types of firearms and their parts, including the frame, barrel, action and more.

Latest

Rao Crosseye Dominance Check Photo By Rao Lede
Rao Crosseye Dominance Check Photo By Rao Lede

How to Train Cross-Eye-Dominant Firearm Students

If you are a firearms instructor, don't let a student simply "compensate" for being cross-eye dominant! Follow these tips for proper training and a more successful student.

Try Something New by Trying Something Old

Want to revive that "new hunter" feeling? Here are a few ways to keep the excitement going from year to year. 

We Love It: Lena Women's Stretch Flannel Shirt and Shirt Jacket from Vertx

We all crave our favorite “comfort foods” when cooler weather invites hibernal tendencies. Now, with the “Lena Collection” by Vertx, we have “comfort clothes.”

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.

 

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.