firing pin

American  

noun

Ordnance.

1. a plunger in the firing mechanism of a firearm or cannon that strikes the cartridge primer, igniting the propelling charge.

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firing pin British  

noun

1. the part of the firing mechanism of a firearm that ignites the charge by striking the primer

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Etymology

Origin of firing pin

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

It continued: "If these features were somehow bypassed, a conspicuously off-centre firing pin impression would result."

From BBC • Aug. 16, 2023

Greenberg said his administration has already directed police to remove the firing pin in confiscated guns before turning them over to the state.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2023

The process involves engraving a serial number inside the firearm, on the tip of the firing pin or breech face.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 9, 2022

Haynes said the mortar round still had its firing pin intact, so he carefully moved it to a separate garage before calling the Durham Police Department, which later informed the Durham County Bomb Squad.

From Washington Times • Feb. 7, 2021

The firing pin snapped harmlessly against the breach.

From The Sky Line of Spruce by Marshall, Edison