What happens after the firing pin strikes the primer in a centerfire cartridge?

When the firing pin strikes the primer in a centerfire cartridge, the primer ignites, which in turn ignites the gunpowder within the cartridge. This ignition creates a rapid expansion of gases, resulting in high pressure that propels the bullet forward through the barrel of the firearm. This is a fundamental aspect of how centerfire ammunition operates, distinguishing it from rimfire cartridges and other types of ammunition.

The other potential outcomes, such as automatic ejection of the bullet, opening of the action for reloading, or activation of the safety mechanism, do not occur immediately after the firing pin strikes the primer. The ejection and reloading processes happen after the shot is fired, and the safety mechanism is a precaution taken to prevent accidental discharge before the firing sequence.