2.5 Rifle Actions

Single shot rifles are usually break or bolt actions. Repeating rifles include the bolt-action, lever-action, pump-action, and semi-automatic types. Operating the lever, bolt, or forend ejects the empty cartridge case, chambers a new round of ammunition, and cocks the gun.

There are five common types of rifle actions:

• Bolt action
• Lever action
• Pump action
• Semi-automatic action
• Break action

When handling any firearm, keep the gun pointed in a safe direction at all times! Keep your fingers away from the trigger unless you are ready to shoot! When you unload bolt-action rifles, always look and feel into the open action. Double check to make sure that there are no cartridges in the chamber or magazine.