automatic rifle

Portable assault rifle that fires cartridges; in automatic weapons such as submachine guns and light machine guns, the cartridges are fed by a magazine or a belt.

flash hider

Muzzle attachment designed to cool the gases and reduce muzzle flash.

handguard

Piece that protects the shooter’s hand from the heat of the barrel.

magazine

Part containing the cartridges, which are automatically fed into the gun barrel.

safety

Catch that blocks the trigger to prevent the weapon from firing by accident.

trigger

Device that is pressed to fire the weapon.

butt

Back part of the weapon that is held against the shoulder.

pistol grip

Part for holding and aiming the weapon; its shape is similar to that of a pistol butt.

charging handle

Device used to cock the weapon.

bolt assist mechanism

Mechanism for choosing between automatic fire (center position) or single shot (down position).

rear sight

Articulated graduated aiming device attached to the back of the barrel; the rear sight is lined up with the front sight when aiming.

barrel

Tubular part that guides the trajectory of the projectile.

front sight housing

Device that protects the front sight from impact.

barrel jacket

Perforated or water-filled metal tube around the barrel; during firing, the tube fills with water to cool down the barrel.

ejection port

Hole from which the empty shell casings are ejected.

receiver

Metal casing around the weapon’s firing mechanism.