What is the first step in the operation cycle of a semi-automatic handgun?

The first step in the operation cycle of a semi-automatic handgun involves the firing of the round that is chambered. In a semi-automatic handgun, the cycle begins when the shooter pulls the trigger, which releases the firing pin to strike the primer of the chambered cartridge. This action ignites the gunpowder, causing the bullet to be propelled out of the barrel.

Understanding that the firing action initiates the sequence is crucial because it is this initial action that sets the remaining steps in motion. After firing, the handgun undergoes processes such as unlocking the spent cartridge case, extracting it, and ejecting it from the chamber, which then paves the way for the next round to be fed into the chamber.

In contrast, chambering, feeding, and locking occur as part of the operational sequence after the firing step. For instance, after the firing step, the cycle continues with extracting and ejecting the spent casing, and then the next round is fed into the chamber for subsequent firing. Recognizing this sequence of operations is essential for comprehending how semi-automatic handguns function effectively.