hunter safety

foster slugs

hunting targets at longer distances. The hollow rear on this slug pushes its center of gravity toward the front, which in turn gives it greater stability, up to a distance of 75 yards. Most will feature small fins toward the rear, called "rifling".

saboted slug

designed to be fired from rifled barreled shotguns or shotguns with a rifled choke tubeTube of different constrictions that are found in shotguns. The degree of constriction helps control the spread of the shot at different distances..

bullet point

target practice

inline percussion muzzle loader

the cap is in-line with the hammer and the barrel. The inline has the nipple attached to the barrel at the breech and accessed by a bolt or break action. Also, the inline model has a removable breech plug, to facilitate cleaning.

hull/casing

the casing is a plastic tube shaped container that holds all of the shell components together.

caliber

the distance between opposite lands inside the barrel gives us the caliber of the rifle or handgun.

break-action or hinge-action pistol

to load a cartridge, push on the chamber-release lever and pivot the barrel down. The chamber is separated from the firing mechanism and ammunition can be inserted into the chamber. The pistol is ready to fire once the chamber is closed. After firing, press on the release lever to open the action. Some break-action pistols have automatic ejectors. Others require you to remove spent cartridges or shot shells manually. Also of note, some break-action models have a half-cock hammer safety.

release aid loop

A release aid can be used in combination with a mechanical release for a more accurate shot.

calibers and there distances

.22 - This rimfire bullet can travel more than 1 mile. 30-30 - This centerfire bullet can travel up to 2 miles. 30-06 - This centerfire bullet can travel over 3 miles.

box magazine

A detachable box magazine can be removed from a firearm, whereas a fixed magazine cannot.

arrow rest

A device that holds the arrow above the arrow shelf.

fixed/hang on stands

A fixed or hang-on type stand can be attached to a tree at any height. It consists of a seat and a platform, along with straps and/or chains to attach the stand. A hunter's movement in this stand is very limited, and it requires a ladder or steps for access. Make sure the attaching straps or chains are tight and secure or the stand could slip when weight is applied to the platform

shooting glove

A glove like attachment for the shooter's hand that can support a smooth release of the string while protecting your fingers.

flintlock muzzle loader flint

A hard, fine-grained form of quartz stone mounted in the hammer that creates a shower of sparks when it strikes the steel frizzen.

gun powder

A high-energy propellant of a specific quantity (charge) that, when ignited, creates a high pressure inside the case. This pressure sends the bullet or projectile down the barrel of the firearm to exit at the muzzle.

safety

A mechanical device that, when engaged, should prevent a firearm from firing by stopping the firing pin from striking the primer.

sight

A mechanical device to help the archer to place a shot.

Polymer Tip Sabot and Hollow Tip

A modern projectile that is available in various styles. Plastic sleeve replaces traditional patch.

cast lead bullet

A modern style of lead projectile.

flintlock muzzle loader frizzen

A piece of steel that is struck by the flint to create sparks. The frizzen also covers the priming charge in the Flash Pan.

flintlock muzzle loader flash pan

A small groove cut in the firing mechanism to hold the priming charge. While filling the flash pan with priming powder, tilt the gun slightly so that the powder enters the touch hole. Once the Flash Pan is full, close the Frizzen tightly.

muzzleloader nipple

A small metal tube that is tapered and screws into the breech plug. The percussion cap is pushed onto the nipple and is held on by tension.

kisser button

A small plastic button that attaches to the bow string. At full draw it will touch the archers lips to provide another point of reference for the anchor position.

magazine

A storage device for cartridges or shot shells featured on most firearms. Without your magazine, your rifle or shotgun will be limited to a single shot. They are available as either a detachable or fixed part.

tubular magazine

A tubular magazine is located under the barrel.

covered quiver

All arrows should be carried safely in a covered quiver. Covered quivers are a convenient and easy way to carry your arrows, giving you quick access while protecting the broadheads and preventing injury. Certain types of quivers can also protect both the arrows and fletching from damage.

Match the Data Stamp First

All manufacturers use a data stamp on their rifles and ammunition. On rifles it is usually located on the left or right side of the barrel. The caliber is also stamped on the cartridge base. The cartridge box indicates the caliber of the ammunition as well.

nock

Generally constructed from plastic, featuring a notch in one end to attach the arrow to the string

grips

Allows the hunter to hold the bow in a vertical position while shooting. For bows with a wrist strap, the proper way to grip is with a relaxed handgrip. For other bows, fingertips are curled resting lightly on the front of the grip. The force of the bow, at full draw, holds the grip in the palm of the archer's hand. If the archer grips the bow too tightly, it tends to throw the arrow left or right or up and down.

muzzle loader safety checklist

Always read the owner's manual for any firearm. Always ensure the firearm is pointed upward and away from your face and body for loading. Use a stable rest for your firearm so it doesn't tip over. Check to see if the muzzleloader is loaded by inserting a pre-marked ramrod into the barrel. When the mark on the ramrod disappears into the barrel, this means the firearm is unloaded. Begin steps to load the firearm consistent with the manufacturer's instructions.

site

An alignment device to help aim a firearm. Styles of sights include metallic, fiber optic, peep, open, telescopic, dot, bead and laser.

string silencer

An elastic material may be added to the string, resulting in a reduction in string noise and vibration. A string silencer is not used on a long bow.

primer

An explosive compound used to ignite the gunpowder charge.

bow string

Attaches to the limbs of a long bow or recurve bow. Attaches to the cable for a compound bow. Has a center nock locator for nocking (positioning) an arrow.

haul line when climbing tree stand

Before climbing into the treestand, unload your firearm. Leave the action open. If retrieving a bow or crossbow with a haul line, keep all arrows or bolts in a quiver. If retrieving a firearm, the muzzle of your firearm should point toward the ground. Secure hunting equipment to the haul line. If retrieving a firearm, do not tie the haul line around the trigger or trigger guard! Tuck - do not tie - the other end of the haul line into your pocket or belt. Climb into the treestand, securing your FAS/FBH to the tree before beginning to retrieve the haul line. Once you've raised your firearm up to your treestand, check for obstructions in the barrel and action. Take your time, do not hurry.

firearm safety

Check the Barrel for Obstructions, Keep the Action Open while traveling in a car or to and for hunting spot, Only point the muzzle at something when you intend to take a shot, Unload before jumping or climbing, always point the muzzle in a safe direction when approached by anyone

telescopic sight

Consisting of a main tube with lenses to magnify distant objects, it has line reticles for lining up the center of a target (i.e., where the horizontal and vertical reticles meet). This sight is mounted on top of the barrel or action of a firearm. Since it is easy to use, it is a good choice for novice hunters. The telescopic sight is available in fixed powers and some models have an adjustable ring that the hunter can use to select different powers of magnification.

action

Consists of a series of parts that load, fire and eject a cartridge or shot shell from a firearm.

fletching

Constructed either of plastic or real feathers, it provides stability for the arrow when in flight. The fletching is made up of three or four vanes per arrow.

draw length

Draw length describes the distance between the bow string and the grip at full draw. Bows come in different draw lengths, the most common being 26 inches, 27 inches, 28 inches and 29 inches. When purchasing a bow, it is very important to have it properly fitted by a reputable dealer. Every bow has a label describing how the bow is set up, with the string and cable length. It is usually located on the inside of the lower limb.

draw weight

Draw weight describes the maximum amount of weight needed to pull a bow string completely back. The draw weight is measured in pounds.

open sight

Featuring a notch or cut at the rear and a single post at the front or muzzle end of the barrel, open sights are common features on rifles and pistols. Many of the newer open sights have the front and rear sight made of fiber optic material of contrasting colors, that gather light and are easier to see in low light.

string groove

Found on the limp tip of Long Bows and Recurve Bows. The groove keeps the bow string in place

mechanical release

Functions like the trigger on a gun to ensure a decisive, frictionless release of the string for greater accuracy.

gauges

Gauge is determined by the number of lead balls of size equal to the exact diameter of the bore that it takes to weigh one pound. For example, it takes 12 lead balls the same diameter as a 12-gauge shotgun bore to weigh one pound. Notice that the lower the gauge number, the larger the bore diameter. Common shotgun gauges are 10-gauge, 12-gauge, 16-gauge, 20-gauge and 28-gauge.

asking permission to hunt on private land

Get to know the landowner long before the hunting season starts. Always ask for permission to hunt before the hunting season begins. Obey a landowner's wishes on where to hunt and take care of the land as if it were your own. Leave any gates and fences as you found them, unless directed otherwise by the landowner. Offer the landowner a part of the game harvested. Help the landowner with chores from fixing fences to wood cutting.

handgun shooting position

Handguns are different in the way the firearm is held when firing at game or sighting at a target. Handguns have the same types of sight configurations as a rifle. Since the handgun has a shorter barrel, accuracy is difficult to obtain. Sight in the handgun at 25 yards and then move out to 50 yards. Always use a two-handed hold with a handgun.

zones of fire

Hold your arms out in front of you at a 45-degree angle. As you look in front of you, the area in front of you starts out small and gets progressively larger into the distance. Your safe zone of fire is the space between your outstretched arms. It is important that you never swing the muzzle out of this zone of fire.

slide or tang safety

In the ON position (i.e., a green colored dot or the letter "S" may be visible) it blocks the firing mechanism of a rifle or shotgun. In the OFF position (i.e., a red colored dot or the letter "F" may be visible) it enables firing of a cartridge or shot shell. A Tang safety, featured on some models of shotguns, is engaged when the letter "S" is visible on top and in the back of the receiver.

hammer or half cock safety

In the half-cock position, the hammer does not rest on the firing pin and the trigger is locked. When the hammer is pulled all the way back into the cocked position, the firearm can be fired. Be sure to check the owner's manual as some manufacturer's firearms are only safe when the hammer is in the "fully forward" position.

standing position

In this position, the hunter's arms are not supported, making it difficult to take an accurate shot. With this position, there is an exaggerated movement of the barrel. Some hunters will use a tree, large stone or a "shooting stick" as a prop to help ensure an accurate shot.

flintlock muzzle loader touch hole

Located at the side of the barrel at the edge of the Flash Pan.

lever pivot safety

Located either on the bolt or just behind the bolt handle on the frame of the receiver, it blocks the firing pin when engaged. On some firearms, the lever safety located on the bolt will have three positions. The back position (i.e., toward the shooter), does not allow the bolt to be opened, and the firearm will not fire. In the middle position, the bolt can be cycled, but the firearm cannot be fired. In the forward position, the safety is OFF, and the firearm can be fired. Other safeties feature only two positions - ON and OFF. These types of safeties are marked either with green and red dots or with an "F" for fire or an "S" for safe.

push button safety

Located on the trigger guard, it blocks the trigger or the hammer when engaged. It may have a visible red band when the safety is in the OFF position.

arrow shaft

Main structural component of the arrow, to which all other parts are attached. The stiffness of the shaft is called the spine. Make sure the arrow is matched to your bow's poundage and your draw length.

crest

Markings indicating the manufacturer of the arrow, the model number of the arrow shaft and in some cases the specific arrow measurements for the diameter and thickness.

Projectile (bullet)

Material that is fired from a firearm or bow. Can be a bullet, slug, shot, or arrow. usually made out of lead and may have a copper jacket

shotgun sight

Most have a bead at the muzzle end, and a ventilated rib on top of the barrel leading up to the bead. When pointing a shotgun at a target, the rib and front bead should be aligned so that you are looking straight down the barrel, to properly hit the target. If the bead appears to be higher or lower than the rib, then you are not looking straight down the barrel, and the shot will not hit the intended target.

flintlock muzzle loader hammer

Part of the firing mechanism that holds the flint.

elbow carry

Place the butt of the firearm in your armpit and let the forearm of the firearm rest on your arm. The muzzle is pointed down and in front of you. This is also a very comfortable position but does not give you very good control of the muzzle.

wad column

Placed between the powder and the projectiles, it is made of plastic or paper and provides a seal so that the gases from the burning powder do not escape past the shot.

cradle carry

Placing the firearm across your chest, rest its action in the bend of your arm. Next, grasp the butt of the firearm with your other hand or cover the trigger guard. It's a very comfortable position. If there is another hunter walking beside you, make sure that each muzzle is pointed in a safe direction.

two-hand carry

Provides the best control of the firearm. One hand holds the firearm's grip and the other is on the forearm of the firearm. This is sometimes referred to as the ready carry. It gives the hunter the best control of the muzzle, and the firearm can be shouldered quickly.

3 R's if falling out of tree stand

Rescue, Relief, Recover

centerfire cartridge is fired

Rifle bores, inside the barrel, have lands and grooves, spiral cuts in the bore, that spiral down the entire length of the barrel, giving the bullet or projectile a spin, which stabilizes it as it travels down the barrel

how to load a flintlock muzzle loader

Start by loading both the pre-measured main charge and projectile in the muzzle end of the barrel. Pull the hammer to a half-cocked position and fill the flash pan with primer powder. When the flash pan is full, you pivot the frizzen down and on top of the primer. The frizzen is held in place by spring tension to keep the primer powder from falling out. It also seals it from the elements. The hammer is pulled back manually and locked in the fire position. When it is released, the flint makes contact with the frizzen, creating a shower of sparks. This causes the priming powder to start to burn. This fire travels through the touch hole, igniting the main powder charge. Prepare to be impressed! The pressure of the burning main charge sends the projectile down the barrel and out to its intended target. And it does so with an impressive display of smoke and firepower.

crossing a fence alone

Step 1. If you are crossing a fence by yourself, unload your firearm first. Step 2. While protecting the muzzle from debris, place your unloaded firearm on the ground with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction away from where you plan to cross the fence. Step 3. Cross the fence away from the muzzle, retrieve your firearm, check the barrel for obstructions, load, check that your safety is on and continue your hunt.

crossing a fence with another person

Step 1. If you are crossing a fence or other obstacle with another hunter, unload all firearms first. Pass your firearm to the other hunter with the action open and visible. Step 2. Once the second hunter is safely holding both firearms, the first hunter may cross the fence. Step 3. Once safely across, the unloaded firearms are handed to the hunter who has crossed the fence. The muzzle should always be pointed in a safe direction. Pass Firearms through fence Step 4. With the muzzles still pointing in a safe direction, the second hunter can now cross the fence.

how to load an inline muzzle loader

Step 1.Pour black powder from the powder flask into the powder measurer. Step 2.Using the powder measurer, pour the measured black powder into the barrel. Step 3.Press the bullet into the muzzle. Step 4.Using the small end or round end of a bullet starter, gently push the bullet into the barrel. Step 5.Push the bullet farther into the barrel by using the longer end of a bullet starter. Step 6.Hold the ramrod about 6 inches from the muzzle. Take your time and use short strokes to seat the projectile firmly upon the powder charge so that there is no airspace between the projectile and the powder charge. An air space here can cause a dangerous pressure build-up when firing. Step 7.When the mark on your ramrod lines up with the top of the muzzle, the bullet is now seated on top of the charge. Step 8.Keeping the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, apply the safety if your firearm has one. Step 9.Using the priming tool, seat the percussion cap onto the nipple. Step 10.Make sure you wear appropriate eye protection while shooting. Once you are ready, properly identify the target as well as what is before and beyond the target. Line up your sights, disengage the safety if your firearm has one, pull the hammer back to the cocked position and gently squeeze the trigger.

muzzle loader hammer

Strikes the percussion cap, producing a spark.

stock

Supports the action and the barrel of a firearm and is made out of either wood or synthetic material. The stock may be a single piece or two pieces, depending on the manufacturer.

TAB-K

T = Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. A = Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. B = Be certain of your target and what's beyond it. K = Keep your finger outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot.

recurve crossbow

The Recurve is another popular style of crossbow. Similar to the recurve bow, it features limbs that sweep back and forward at the tips, giving it more potential energy. There are no wheels or cams to break and no cables and cable savers to change. Recurve Crossbows are also generally lighter than the compound crossbows. This style also uses a bolt which is held in place by a retention spring.

action of a handgun

The action on a handgun loads, fires and ejects a cartridge.

barrel

The barrel is the tube-shaped part of a firearm through which ammunition is fired. The muzzle is located at the front end of the barrel

anchor point

The location of the archer's face, mouth or jaw at full draw where the drawing hand is positioned to provide the archer with a consistent anchor point for each shot.

nock locator

The mark or device that indicates where the arrow is to be placed on the string. It is located on the serving area of the string.

frame of a handgun

The part of the handgun that all other parts are attached to or housed in.

trigger gaurd

The trigger guard protects the trigger.

handgun barrel

The tube-shaped part of the handgun through which a bullet is fired. The barrel is attached to the frame and can vary in length. The longer the barrel, the more accurate the handgun will be in hitting a target.

limbs

The upper or lower part of the bow that bends when the string is drawn back. The limbs store the energy when the bow is held at full draw. Never release a bow string without an arrow nocked in place. This is called "dry firing" a bow. Doing so can cause serious damage to the bow and/or injury to the shooter and bystanders.

serving

The wrapping of material in the center of the string to protect the string from wear. The nock locator attaches to the serving.

recurve bow

This bow features limbs that sweep back and then forward at the tips toward both the bow string and the grip. It is easier for the novice archer to use, since its curved limbs give it more potential energy. When pulling back a recurve to a full draw, an archer experiences less hand shock and vibration than with a long bow. However, unlike the compound bow, this bow does not have a "let off point" meaning that the archer will still feel the total draw weight of the bow throughout the entire draw. When the string is released, the limbs and string move in a forward direction. The stored energy in both parts of the limb is released very quickly, propelling the arrow to the target at high speed.

shoulder carry

This carry allows for good muzzle control when walking longer distances. One hand is holding the firearms grip, barrel resting on shoulder and the muzzle pointed up and behind you. Only use this type of carry when you are absolutely certain that no one is behind you.

tower stand

This is a freestanding stand, featuring either three or four legs, depending on the manufacturer. A ladder is included with this stand to access the top platform, where the seat is attached. The tower stand is best suited for the edge of a field or in open country. It requires a strong, level, firm base and needs to be secured to the ground.

long bow

This is a large, powerful, lightweight bow. For a novice archer, it is more difficult to use than other bow styles. Not all long bows have an arrow shelf for an arrow rest. Nor do they shoot as fast as the recurve or compound bow. It also does not have a "let-off point". This means the archer feels the total draw weight of the bow through the entire draw. When the string is drawn back, energy is stored in the limbs until the archer releases the bow string, propelling the arrow to the target at high speed.

kneeling position

This is an adaptation of the standing position, in which the hunter uses a rest to steady the firearm. The hunter will experience less barrel movement - a key to accurate shot placement.

sitting position

This is the next-best position for steadiness. With legs crossed at the ankles, the hunter's knees gives support to the arms. But a hunter's legs will start to shake if this position is held for a lengthy period.

arrow point

This is the point or tip of the arrow. The particular arrow point you choose is determined by the game species you will be hunting.

prone position

This is the steadiest of all positions, because it supports both the firearm and the hunter's upper body. The hunter's hips and legs provide a stable platform. This position is very comfortable and should be used to practice the fundamentals of good shooting.

percussion or cap lock muzzle loader

This model has the nipple mounted on the outside of the barrel at the breech end. It uses a small percussion cap that has an explosive compound, which is used to ignite a gunpowder charge.

ladder stand

This stand is safer to enter and exit thanks to the ladder, but it may require three people to install and secure it properly to a tree. Ranging between 12 and 16 feet in height, it is ideal when hunting on well-established game trails. Some ladder stands have a small seat and platform for one hunter. Others feature a larger seat and platform for two hunters.

sling carry

This takes advantage of the sling attachments on your firearm. Attach a sling, making sure it fits, and place the rifle over your shoulder while grasping the sling with your hand. This is a great carry when traveling over long distances.

compound crossbow

Though it works on the same principle as a compound bow with wheels and cams, the Compound Crossbow has a unique design. It features a trigger mechanism that holds the string in place until the archer releases its projectile, known as the bolt. A crossbow frame resembles a rifle stock and features a top rail for attaching a telescopic sight. The bolt rests on the rail and is held in place by a retention spring. The limbs function similar to a compound bow, but are much shorter.

handguns

Though they have similar parts to rifles, handguns have a much shorter barrel, which makes proper shot placement much more difficult. This calls for added patience when using this firearm for hunting. The shorter barrel also calls for added caution

self climbing stand

To install it in a tree, a hunter uses a push-down, pull-up method. It requires practice to become proficient with how this stand operates, so it's wise to practice at ground level before hunting season begins. A safety strap is required when climbing with this stand, so select a tree that does not have loose or peeling bark. The hunter stands on the bottom platform and pulls the seat section up to waist level. He or she then sits on the seat and raises the bottom platform up to the bottom of the seat section. The hunter then stands on the bottom platform and pulls the seat section up to waist level. This action is repeated until the hunter reaches the desired height.

Round Lead Ball and Patch

Traditional style of ammunition for all muzzleloaders.

trail carry

Use this carry only when no one is in front of you. Grasp the stock with one hand, just in front of the action. Ensure the muzzle is pointed away and in front of you. This positions the muzzle toward the ground but does not offer good control of the firearm. Be careful that the muzzle does not hit the ground

#11 Percussion cap

Used for cap lock muzzle loaders. this primer is placed directly on the nipple.

FFFFG Priming Powder

Used for flintlock muzzleloaders

209 muzzle loader primer

Used for inline muzzle loaders. this primer has a much hotter spark and is used where there is a larger amount of powder in the main charge. It is first placed in a primer holder and then on the nipple.

compound bow

Using wheels and cams, it allows the hunter to hold the bow at full draw for a longer period of time for the best shot - a significant advantage over other bow styles. As the hunter begins to draw the bow, the string starts to turn the wheel and cam that is attached to the bow limbs. The hunter pulls the full draw weight until the cam turns over, letting off the full draw weight. When the cam turns over, the draw weight is decreased by 50 to 80%. This decrease in draw weight, achieved by the cam turning over, allows the hunter to hold less draw weight at full draw.

aperture or peep sight

Usually mounted at the rear part of the rifle action, this sight has a base and a raised ring. It is adjustable for vertical and horizontal movement. Aim at a target by mounting the firearm and peering through the peephole of the rear sight, centering the front sight within the circle of the rear peep sight. The front sight can be a metal post with a ball on top or just a metal post. This category of sight is common on target rifles.

working with law enforcement officials

When approached by a law enforcement official or conservation warden while in the field, be sure to point the muzzle of your firearm in a safe direction, and wait for their instructions. They will likely ask you to unload your firearm and leave the action open. Hunting licenses must be carried by hunters at all times, and shown to the game warden upon request

trigger

When squeezed, the trigger releases the firing pin to hit the primer on a firearm's cartridge, igniting the powder and sending the bullet down the barrel.

vibration dampener

Will help absorb vibration caused when firing the bow. Will also help reduce shock and excess noise.

Shot string

a pattern of what the pellets would look like if you were able to take a picture of the shot on its way to the target. When the pellets leave the barrel, they separate from each other due to the force of air resistance.

double - action revolver

a single pull of the trigger both cocks and drops the hammer. To open the action, every double action has a release button that, when pressed, allows the cylinder to swing out from the frame. With the cylinder accessible, you can load the cartridges into the chambers. To close the cylinder, push the cylinder into the frame until it locks in place. When you pull the trigger back, the cylinder revolves to a new chamber, and at the same time the hammer starts toward the cocked position. Continuing to pull the trigger will result in the cylinder stopping on a new chamber and the hammer being dropped, striking the firing pin. To fire another cartridge, start pulling the trigger back slowly until the revolver fires. Alternatively, while keeping your finger off the trigger, pull the hammer all the way back with your thumb until it locks into position. A slight squeeze on the trigger will fire the gun. To unload the double action, press the cylinder release, swing the cylinder out to expose the chambers, and push on the ejection rod. All the cartridges will fall from the cylinder. no safety

single action revolver

a single-action revolver's trigger only releases the hammer. When the hammer is pulled back to the full-cocked position, the trigger is set and can be pulled to fire a single shot. After a shot is fired, the trigger is locked in place until the hammer is pulled back to the full-cocked position for another shot. The cylinder does not swing out on a single-action. Loading requires the hammer to be pulled back to the half-cock position (Safety mechanism where the hammer rests in the half-cocked position, not resting on the firing pin, and locking the trigger in place.). Next, open the loading gate, rotate the cylinder to an empty chamber, and insert a cartridge. To eject a cartridge, pull the hammer to a half-cock position, open the loading gate, and rotate the cylinder until a cartridge is visible. When the cartridge is visible, push on the ejector rod until the cartridge falls out. You must perform this action for each cartridge.

stabilizer

adds forward weight, to balance the bow and absorb the vibrations when the string is released.

pump or side action

allows a hunter to quickly eject and chamber new ammunition. It is typically loaded from the bottom into a tubular magazine. The action is opened when the forearm is pulled back to the rear of the firearm. Pushing the forearm forward moves the ammunition from the magazine into the chamber and closes the action so that the firearm is loaded and ready to be fired. On most pump-actions, a slide lever located by the trigger guard releases the action so you can inspect the chamber or unload the firearm.

Improved cylinder choke

barely controls the spread of the shot and is used for shots between 20 to 30 yards.

flintlock muzzle loader

features a flintlock mechanism that produces sparks when a piece of flint strikes its steel frizzen.

semi-automatic pistol

generates less recoil, due to its design. Load the semi-automatic pistol by removing the magazine and pushing cartridges into it until full. Next, insert the magazine into the magazine well, typically located in the pistol grip. Pull back on the slide and release the slide without hindering its motion in any way. The pistol is now loaded. When the trigger is pulled, the round is fired, the action opens, the spent case is extracted and ejected and a new round is chambered. This sequence is repeated for every pull of the trigger. The action remains open automatically when all ammunition stored in the magazine has been used.

choke

helps to hold the shot string together, controlling its spread when it leaves the barrel.

Bolt Action

high accuracy. It is the strongest action. It is operated by moving the bolt handle up and to the rear to open the action. When the bolt is moved forward, it picks up a fresh cartridge. With the bolt fully forward, push down on it to lock the bolt in place. Grasp the bolt handle after firing, lifting it up while pulling it towards you. This will eject the spent cartridge from the chamber

magazine plug

made of wood or plastic and is inserted in the tubular magazine to limit the number of shells a shotgun may hold. Federal law requires that the shotgun be limited to a capacity of three (3) shells (one in the chamber and two in the magazine) while hunting

case

metal container that holds all of the components of a firearm cartridge together.

modified choke

not as tight as the full choke and is used for mid-range shots, usually between 30 and 40 yards.

semi-automatic action

reduced recoil. After the trigger is pulled and a round is fired, the action opens automatically, the spent ammunition is ejected, a new round is chambered, the action closes and the firearm is ready to be fired again. This sequence repeats each time the trigger is pulled. The action remains open automatically when all ammunition stored in the magazine and chamber has been fired.

Lever Action

shorter barrel, is lighter to carry, and is easy to operate for follow-up shots. Most lever-actions have a loading gate where the cartridges are pushed into a tubular magazine. To load a cartridge from the magazine, grasp the lever and swing it down and away from you. Make sure that the barrel is pointed in a safe direction. Next, swing the lever up and towards you. This releases a cartridge from the magazine, chambers the cartridge and closes the action. After you load, engage the safety if your lever action has one; otherwise, place the hammer at half-cock position. After firing the lever action, swing the lever down and away from you to eject the cartridge

projectiles

shot pellets or slugs

Match data stamp first

shotguns have a data stamp usually located on the right or left side of the barrel. It indicates the gauge and maximum length of the shotshell that can be fired safely. Gauge and shell length are also shown on the shell base and box. Always purchase and use the exact ammunition as stamped on the barrel.

slug

single lead projectile

break action or hinge action

single-barrel or double-barrel styles and is ideal for novice hunters due to the limit it places on shots per use. Most firearms with this type of action feature two barrels placed either side-by-side or in an over-and-under configuration. For loading, push on the action release lever and pivot the barrels down. The chamber will then be separated from the stock and firing mechanism so ammunition can be inserted. Once you close the action and release the safety, the firearm is ready for firing. After firing, press the release lever to open the action and eject the spent cartridge or shotshell. Some break-actions have automatic ejectors, others require that you manually remove the spent cartridge or shotshell. Break actions for rifles and shotguns may be designed to accommodate a wide variety of interchangeable barrels for rimfire and centerfire ammunition.

blunt point

small game and are made of metal or rubber.

full choke

the tightest choke and therefore has the tightest shot pattern. It keeps the pellets together over a greater distance and is therefore used for longer shots, generally beyond 40 yards.

smoothbore barrel

there is no rifling. Shotguns can be used for short and long distances. Shotguns are highly accurate for shorter distances

broadhead points

used for big game and generally have interchangeable blades that can either be in a fixed position or a newer type, which opens only on impact.

fishing points

used for bow fishing and feature barbs to hold the fish to the arrow.

field points

used for target practice and small game hunting.

judo points

used mostly in grassy areas for small game.