There are many other calibers, but these are some of the most common handgun calibers you’ll see at stores. 22LR (long rifle), 380 Auto, 9mm, 38 Special, 357 Magnum, 40 S&W, and 45 ACP (automatic Colt pistol). Now, some of the most common handgun calibers in terms of size and power, starting with the smallest to greatest are. The powder is the fuel source that propels the bullet down the barrel. The primer is filled with an impact sensitive compound that ignites when struck by a firing pin. The bullet is the projectile that leaves the barrel of the gun when you squeeze the trigger. A handgun cartridge consists of four parts: bullet, casing, primer, and powder. The bullet is one of four components that make up a cartridge, which is the actual term to describe ammunition. Oftentimes people wrongfully call it a bullet, which technically speaking isn’t the correct term. To avoid overwhelming you with information, I’m only going to cover the most common handgun calibers in this post.įirst, let’s define what a cartridge or ammunition is. Failure to use the correct type or caliber of ammunition may cause your firearm to jam, fail to fire, or even generate excessive pressure which can damage or even rupture your firearm, causing personal injury, death, or property damage. In any case, never use ammunition not specifically designated for use in your firearm. It’s essential to know what ammo your gun will shoot, what types can be harmful, and what other names your ammo can be referred to so that you can increase your chances of finding it available.

There are so many different names for calibers, types of bullets, grain weights, and variations in energy. Ammunition can be confusing even for those with experience.

Largest calibre revolver