2.12 Finding the Correct Ammunition for Your Rifle

To find the correct cartridge, look on the left side of the rifle barrel. (Note: Some firearms may have markings on the top or on the right side.) On newer firearms, you will find numbers stamped on the barrel. Make sure the numbers on the barrel match the numbers on the ammunition before you shoot!

Older firearms and custom firearms might not be marked or the barrel or chamber might have been changed. If you need more information or if you don't know the correct ammunition for your rifle, take it to a gunsmith.

Factory ammunition almost always has a number stamped on the base of the cartridge case. The numbers identify the cartridge.

Make sure that your ammunition matches the numbers stamped on your firearm! Never carry or shoot ammunition that does not exactly match your firearm!