California Firearms Safety Certificates (CAFSC) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the California Firearms Safety Certificate Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Hints and explanations are provided for each question to help you get ready and pass the exam with confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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What type of action does a firearm demonstrate if it has a hinge that opens for loading?

  1. Hinge action

  2. Lever action

  3. Pump action

  4. Single action

The correct answer is: Hinge action

A firearm that features a hinge allowing it to open for loading is demonstrating hinge action. This type of mechanism is commonly found in break-action shotguns and rifles, where the barrel is hinged to the frame, enabling the user to break open the action for reloading. Hinge action is distinct in that it allows for easy access to the chamber, facilitating quick loading and unloading of ammunition, which is particularly advantageous in hunting or target shooting situations. The other types of actions listed function differently. Lever action involves a lever mechanism that is used to chamber a new round and eject spent casings, typically found in rifles. Pump action operates through a sliding forend that the shooter manually pumps back and forth to cycle rounds. Single action refers to a firearm that requires the hammer to be manually cocked before each shot is fired. Each of these mechanisms has its own unique operation, distinguishing them from hinge action.