Basic parts of a firearm

Below is a brief photo collection detailing the most basic parts of a firearm and a brief definition of what each part is and the basic function it serves. Click any of the photos to enlarge them.

There are a few common parts of a firearm you will find on virtually all modern handgun models and variations. This firearm is a Glock 19. This model uses 9mm ammunition.


It is a very popular handgun and has found favor worldwide in law enforcement and personal defense. Most of the basic firearm components you need to be familiar with are found on the left hand side of the firearm (when the barrel is pointing to the left as in the photos)

The next photo lists the basic component names and their locations on the firearm.


Starting from the top left going clockwise: The Accessory Rail is used for mounting lights, lasers or other paraphernalia to the firearm. The Front Sight is used in conjunction with the rear sight to align the firearm on target. The Slide houses the internal barrel along with parts of the firing mechanisms and is also used to manually chamber a cartridge (initially load the firearm) or to manually clear a malfunction.

The Rear Sight is used in conjunction with the front sight to align the firearm on target. The Slide Stop Lever is used to lock the slide in an open position or to release the slide from a locked open position. The Frame is the firearm's framework.

The Magazine holds the ammunition for the firearm and can be removed for reloading. The Magazine Release allows the Magazine to be removed or pulled out of the firearm. The Trigger discharges the weapon. Finally, the Disassembly Lever allows for the firearm to be taken apart for cleaning or maintenance.

This next photo has the different areas of the firearm shaded for a better view.



The Frame shading area should also include the narrow strip below the slide, but shading all of the frame made the image more difficult to view.

Although there are many different makes, models and designs of handguns, virtually all modern handguns have these same parts, and all act in a similar fashion. (NOTE: Revolvers are another story and will be detailed later)

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