Striker-Fired Mechanism
Definition
A firing arrangement using a spring-driven striker rather than a hammer transferring impact to a separate firing component. Cocking and safety systems differ by design. The label does not establish breech operation, a universal primer-impression shape or the function of an unexamined specimen.
The action, ignition mechanism, cartridge designation and legal category describe different aspects of a handgun. Forensic examination distinguishes them before assessing what marks or scene observations can support. A striker-fired pistol can be locked-breech, and a hammer-fired pistol can use more than one operating principle.
Related terms
- Blowback Operation
- An operating arrangement without a mechanical breech lock, in which the design and inertia of moving components control opening during pressure evolution....
- Locked Breech
- A mechanically engaged breech arrangement that remains locked during the initial firing phase before the design’s opening sequence. Short-recoil systems are common...
- Recoil Shield
- The rear supporting surface behind a conventional revolver cylinder that can contact a cartridge case during firing. It may contribute marks useful...
- Revolver
- A firearm with multiple chambers in a rotating cylinder that aligns a chamber with the barrel. Conventional designs retain fired cases until...
- Semi-Automatic Pistol
- A handgun designed to fire one shot per trigger operation and use an operating cycle to prepare the next cartridge. Functioning designs...