Firing Pin vs. Striker
Generally speaking, these terms refer to the same thing. A firing pin is properly referred to as such when it is not directly connected to the hammer. The pin itself may be a component of the bolt or bolt carrier group and driven forward by a spring, in which case it is known as a striker.
If it is integral to the hammer, as in hammers that have forward projects which directly strike the primer, it is known as a hammer nose. Firearms with these types of actions do not have actual firing pins.
Types of Firing Pins
There are several different types of firing pins common in firearms today. Some of these are mentioned here:
● Free-floating: Free-floating models sit freely in the bolt and are not restrained by any springs.
● Fixed: Fixed pins are actually protrusions of the bolt face (similar to a hammer nose).
● Striker: Strikers are pins that are held back under the tension of a spring. When the trigger releases the spring, the spring slams the pin forward, “striking” the primer.
Do You Need a New Firing Pin?
If your firearm fails to fire but you are certain the trigger, sear, and springs are in working order, the issue may be your firing pin. Disassemble the action yourself (or take it to a gunsmith) and inspect the pin. If it is flattened, broken, cracked, rusted, or otherwise inhibited, you will need to replace it. These components of firearm action weather a substantial amount of abuse and after a while, even well-maintained firing pins will break.
Not Sure What You Need? Give Us a Call!
Not sure what type of components your action will accept? Get in touch with us at 610-250-3960 and our firearms experts will help you find the right firearms parts.