Firing Pins

Question 1

Inertia

Answer 1

Forward energy is created when the hammer strikes the firing pin. As the pin is driven forward by the strike of the hammer, the spring is compressed, creating the energy needed to
Reset the firing pin. (M1911A1, USP, BHP)

Question 2

Percussion

Answer 2

The firing pin is driven forward by the force of a compressed spring and is retracted by the cam action that cocks the weapon (M60, M2HB).

Question 3

Striker

Answer 3

A firing pin which is carried inside the bolt and receives its forward momentum from its own spring, when activated by the trigger (Squeezed) not struck by the hammer. A squeeze-cocking system is what compresses the firing pin spring.

Question 4

Fixed

Answer 4

It’s own mass provides the energy. A protrusion machine into the face of the bolt/breech which punctures the primer when the bolt has fully chambered the cartridge. Found in most blowback submachine guns (Uzi).

Question 5

Free-Floating

Answer 5

Larger Mass strikes the firing pin (Hammer). Longer than its carrier; no spring is used on either forward or rearward movement of the firing pin (M1 Garand & Carbine, M14, M16, AK Rifle, RPK, SVD).