firing pin

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

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of firing pin¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

Nguyen thinks the weapon was defective — a loose firing pin — and it discharged as he racked the slide.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From BBC

When the trigger is pulled, a firing pin strikes the rear of the ammunition cartridge, igniting the powder, which burns extremely fast and forces the bullet down the barrel of a firearm.

From New York Times

It’s likely that when the pin was pulled on Saturday in Indiana, there was a loud pop that came from the grenade as the firing pin hit the primer, Colonel Leiendecker said.

From New York Times

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