- 01: Introduction
- 02: History
- 03: Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development
- 04: Modern Firearms Manufacture
- 05: Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Evidence Handling Procedures
- 07: Equipment and Instrumentation
- 08: Examination of Firearms
- 09: Cartridge and Shotshell Examination
- 10: Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles
- 11: Bullet Comparison and Identification
- 12: Gunshot Residue and Distance Determination
- 13: Toolmark Identification
- 14: Communicating Results
- Resources
Top Break Action
Home > Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development > Evolution of Firearms > Breech Loading Firearm Design > Top Break Action
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Top break action
Click for larger imageFor low-power cartridges, a simple top break action was sufficient. This was derived from certain percussion breechloaders that used the same system. The barrel was hinged to a separate frame. The frame held the firing mechanism and the lock/latch system. Operating the latch withdrew the locking bolt from its engagement with the barrel, letting the barrel tip down (in some designs, the barrel pivoted to the side) for ready access to the breech. This system is commonly found today in single- and double-barrel shotguns and some rifles.
