Break-Action shotgun terminology

Double-barreled break-action shotguns are still very popular today for hunting and target practice. Although limited in the amount of ammunition they can immediately reload, the double-barreled break-action shotgun is a mainstay in most hunting enthusiast's collection.

This particular model is a Savage Arms Stevens Model 9478 20 gauge. It is designated a "side by side", which means the double barrels are next to each other horizontally. If the double barrels were on top of each other vertically, it would be called an "over and under"



A break-action shotgun has some of the same parts and components as the previously illustrated shotgun.

The STOCK is a solid piece at the rear of the shotgun that adds stability and allows an individual to better handle the weapon. A stock can be made of many materials, but the most popular style is wood.

The HAMMER is used to strike the firing pin and discharge the shotshell in the shotgun.

The RECEIVER is the center piece of the shotgun and is sometimes referred to as the FRAME

The FRONT SIGHT is used in conjunction with the rear sight to align the firearm on target. The front sight on many firearms is a simple bead on the tip of the barrel.

The BARREL guides the shell as it is discharged toward the intended target.

The BREAK OPEN SWITCH (or BREAK ACTION LEVER or RELEASE BUTTON) opens the shotgun for reloading and unloading.

The TRIGGER discharges the weapon.

Notice what is missing from the shotgun previously mentioned?



The LOADING PORT, MAGAZINE, EJECTION PORT, PUMP, SAFETY SELECT SWITCH, and the CARTRIDGE DROP LEVER are not parts of this shotgun!

In a upcoming blog entry, I will illustrate why this is the case in this particular style of shotgun.

-end-