What part of the gun hits the primer on a cartridge to ignite the powder?

• A. Hammer
• B. Firing Pin
• C. Bolt
• D. Extractor

Answer: (B)

Ignition happens when the primer at the base of the cartridge is struck. The part that actually hits the primer and delivers that percussion is the firing pin. When the firing pin strikes the primer, it detonates a tiny explosive, which then ignites the gunpowder inside the cartridge. The rapidly expanding gas from that ignition propels the bullet down the barrel. The other parts have different roles: the hammer provides the energy to trigger the firing pin (in many designs), the bolt helps lock and unlock the action, and the extractor pulls the spent cartridge from the chamber.