During which step in the firing process is the gunpowder ignited?

The ignition of gunpowder occurs when the firing pin strikes the primer. The firing pin's impact on the primer generates a small explosion, which then ignites the gunpowder inside the cartridge. This sequence is critical to the firing process, as the firing pin must strike the primer with sufficient force to ensure that the primer detonates and subsequently ignites the gunpowder, allowing the bullet to be propelled from the firearm.

The act of pulling the trigger initiates this process, but it is the firing pin's interaction with the primer that directly leads to the ignition of the gunpowder. Seating the bullet is a preparatory step in loading the cartridge, and loading the magazine involves placing cartridges into the feeding device of the firearm but does not impact the ignition process itself. Therefore, understanding the functionality of the firing pin and primer is essential for comprehending how firearms operate safely and effectively.