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.

---

firing pin British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of firing pin

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

firing pin

The firing pin holds thousands of pounds of tension in place, and it takes a hard, full-body tug to release it.

From Slate ● Jul. 7, 2025

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

The firing pin, or striker, is screwed into the hammer; the spiral main spring, which surrounds the striker, is contained in a hollow in the body.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 601, July 9, 1887 by Various