What is included in a complete round of firearm ammunition?

A complete round of firearm ammunition consists of five essential components: the bullet, cartridge case, powder, and primer.

The bullet is the projectile that is fired from the firearm, while the cartridge case holds all of the components together and acts as a container for the powder and primer. The powder (commonly known as gunpowder) is the propellant that ignites when the primer is struck, creating gas that propels the bullet forward. The primer is a small explosive device that ignites the powder when struck by the firing pin of the gun.

This comprehensive understanding of the ammunition components is critical for safety and functionality in firearms use and is a foundational concept in forensic analysis related to firearms and ammunition. Having knowledge of each component helps in understanding how ammunition operates, which is crucial in crime scene investigations involving firearms.