semi-automatics
One trigger, one bullet
Semi-automatics are firearms that fire one round each time the trigger is pulled, then automatically reload the next round from a magazine.
This distinguishes them from fully automatic weapons, which continue firing as long as the trigger is held, and from manual-action firearms like bolt-action rifles, which require the shooter to manually chamber each round.
The term applies to both handguns and long guns.
The debate over semi-automatics intensified after the shooting.
Compact one-handed firearm
- handgunFirearm for single-hand use
- GlockAustrian pistol manufacturer
- magazineBound periodical with articles
- clipCut or attach
9mm · caliber · trigger · slide · holster · concealed carry · firearm · weapon
Long-barreled shoulder weapon
- AR-15Semiautomatic civilian rifle
- M16U.S. military rifle
- carbineShort-barreled lightweight firearm
- assault weaponMilitary-derived firearm for civilians
tactical · combat · infantry · M4 · AK-47 · marksman · squad · patrol
Process of doing
- cyclingRiding on two wheels
- gas-operatedPowered by pressurized vapor
- recoil-operatedFirearm cycling via kickback
- boltThreaded rod for nuts
feeding · ejection · cartridge · mechanism · self-loading · jam · malfunction · spring
pistol
Compact one-handed firearm
- handgunFirearm for single-hand use
- GlockAustrian pistol manufacturer
- magazineBound periodical with articles
clip · 9mm · caliber · trigger · slide · holster · concealed carry · firearm · weapon · Beretta
rifle
Long-barreled shoulder weapon
assault weapon · tactical · combat · infantry · M4 · AK-47 · marksman · squad · patrol · engagement
action
Process of doing
- cyclingRiding on two wheels
- gas-operatedPowered by pressurized vapor
- recoil-operatedFirearm cycling via kickback
bolt · feeding · ejection · cartridge · mechanism · self-loading · jam · malfunction · spring · operation
semi-automaticsbolt-action rifles
Guns with sliding breech handles
machine guns · automatic weapons · revolvers · muzzleloaders · submachine guns