Hunter-Ed Certification Practice Exam

How do rifles, shotguns, and handguns primarily differ?

1. Weight and balance

2. Action type and rate of fire

3. Barrels and ammunition

4. Sight systems and ergonomics

The correct answer is: Barrels and ammunition

Rifles, shotguns, and handguns primarily differ in terms of their barrels and ammunition. The barrel design is critical because it affects how each firearm operates and the type of projectile it uses. For example, rifles usually have a long, rifled barrel which stabilizes a single bullet for greater accuracy over distance. They typically use cartridges that are designed to produce high velocity and are suited for precision shooting. Shotguns have smooth barrels and are designed to fire multiple pellets or a single slug at once, making them ideal for hunting birds and other small game at closer ranges. Their ammunition, often referred to as shotshells, varies significantly in terms of payload, with options for birdshot, buckshot, and slugs, depending on the intended application. Handguns are generally shorter in barrel length and are designed for close-quarters engagements. They come in various calibers, commonly utilizing either revolver-style or semi-automatic loading mechanisms. The ammunition for handguns is typically about the same or lighter than that of rifles, but the design of both the barrel and the cartridge is distinct. By understanding these differences, hunters and shooters can make informed choices based on the intended use of the firearm, whether it be precision shooting, small game hunting,