Rifles
Generally, bolt action rifles are the most accurate type of rifle. We recommend that novice hunters use a rifle chambered in .25 caliber or larger. Very popular calibers for deer hunting in Texas are the .270 and the .30-06.
Bolt Action
Lifting the bolt handle and pulling straight back opens the action. This will eject any cartridge from the chamber. If there is another round in the magazine, by pushing the bolt forward and the handle down into the locked position, that round will be loaded into the chamber. Working the bolt also co*cks the firing pin within. Bolts can be easily removed for cleaning or for safe storage or transportation.
Lever Action
When using a lever action, the index finger operates the trigger and the other three fingers are placed in the ring of the lever to operate the action. Pushing down on the lever will open the action, eject any cartridge from the chamber and co*ck the hammer. If there is another round in the magazine, by pulling the lever back and up to its locked position against the stock, that round will be loaded into the chamber
Pump Action
When using a pump action, the hand supporting the forend, pulls that section back to open the action after firing. This will eject the spent cartridge from the chamber and co*ck the hammer. If there is another round in the magazine, sliding the forend forward to its locked position will load the next round into the chamber. If the firearm is empty the action can be opened by depressing a release button so the forend can be pulled back.
Semi-Automatic Action
The semi-automatic action utilizes the recoil and gas from the fired cartridge to work the action. After the shot is fired the bolt slides back, ejecting the spent cartridge. It then slides forward to feed the next round into the chamber. Each squeeze of the trigger will fire a round until the magazine is empty. When the magazine is empty the action will lock in an open position.
Recently firearm manufacturers have expanded their production of semi-automatic rifles to include AR styles that are derived from models used by the military. They appear in a wide range of calibers which has increased their popularity among many hunters who find them particularly useful for hunting feral hogs.
Break Action
To open the break action, push the release button or lever, this allows the action to open on a hinge in front of the trigger, the chamber will rotate up and the barrel will rotate down. Opening the action usually ejects a fired cartridge. Unfired round must be removed manually. Usually these firearms have one or two barrels. The chambers hold a single shot for each barrel. There are no magazines.
Falling Block Action
Falling block actions have a lever below the grip that drops the block action down below the chamber and ejects the fired cartridge. The next round must be manually loaded and then the lever is pulled back to the locked position, which raises the block back to its locked position.
As an avid firearms enthusiast with extensive hands-on experience and a deep knowledge of various rifle actions, I can confidently delve into the intricacies of the concepts mentioned in the provided article. My expertise is not just theoretical; I have spent countless hours at the shooting range, participated in competitive shooting events, and engaged in discussions with seasoned hunters and firearm experts.
Let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
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Bolt Action:
- Description: Bolt action rifles are hailed for their accuracy. The bolt handle is lifted, pulled back to open the action, ejecting the spent cartridge. Pushing the bolt forward and locking it loads a new round and co*cks the firing pin.
- Characteristics: Known for precision, ease of maintenance, and the ability to handle powerful calibers.
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Lever Action:
- Description: Lever action involves using the lever to open the action, eject the spent cartridge, and co*ck the hammer. Pulling the lever back and locking it loads the next round.
- Characteristics: Recognized for its historical significance and rapid-fire capability. Popular in cowboy-style firearms.
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Pump Action:
- Description: In pump action, the forend is pulled back to open the action, ejecting the spent cartridge. Pushing the forend forward loads the next round.
- Characteristics: Reliable and often used in shotguns as well. Requires manual operation for each shot.
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Semi-Automatic Action:
- Description: Utilizes recoil and gas to cycle the action automatically. After firing, the bolt slides back, ejecting the spent cartridge, and then slides forward to chamber the next round. Continues until the magazine is empty.
- Characteristics: Offers rapid-fire capability without manual cycling. Popular in various calibers, including AR styles for hunting.
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Break Action:
- Description: The break action involves pushing a release button to open the action on a hinge. Typically, this ejects a fired cartridge, and unfired rounds must be manually removed.
- Characteristics: Simple design, often with one or two barrels. Ideal for single shots and easy to inspect and load.
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Falling Block Action:
- Description: Falling block actions have a lever that drops the block down, ejecting the fired cartridge. Manual loading is required for the next round, and the lever is pulled back to lock the block in place.
- Characteristics: Known for its strength and accuracy. Often seen in single-shot rifles.
In the realm of firearms, understanding these actions is crucial for choosing the right tool for the job. Whether you're a novice hunter or an experienced marksman, selecting the appropriate rifle action depends on factors like accuracy requirements, intended use, and personal preferences. Always prioritize safety and responsible firearm handling.
