breechblock
Gun's rear closure
A breechblock is the metal component in a firearm that closes the rear of the barrel during firing.
It seals the breech—the back end of the gun's chamber—to contain the explosive force that propels the bullet forward.
In artillery and larger weapons, the breechblock must be opened to load ammunition and then locked securely before firing.
The mechanism varies by weapon type, with some sliding vertically and others rotating or hinging.
Sealed container for supplies
Threaded rod for nuts
- receiverOne who accepts transmission
- chamberEnclosed room or cavity
- firing pinPrimer-striking gun component
- triggerWhat initiates action
hammer · sear · extractor · ejector · barrel · stock · action · face
Fixing firmly in position
- cammingSetting mechanical protection
- cyclingRiding on two wheels
- extractionAct of removing
- ejectionForced removal from somewhere
feeding · chambering · cocking · firing · recoil · gas-operated · blowback · rotating
cartridge
Sealed container for supplies
bolt
Threaded rod for nuts
- receiverOne who accepts transmission
- chamberEnclosed room or cavity
- firing pinPrimer-striking gun component
trigger · hammer · sear · extractor · ejector · barrel · stock · action · face · carrier
locking
Fixing firmly in position
- cammingSetting mechanical protection
- cyclingRiding on two wheels
- extractionAct of removing
ejection · feeding · chambering · cocking · firing · recoil · gas-operated · blowback · rotating · tilting
Mauser
German rifle manufacturer
block, breech, breach, blockade, breeches, breeched, breeching, breechcloth, breechloader