Mérszám

Mérszám is a Hungarian term that translates to "gauge" or "caliber" in English. It is primarily used in the context of firearms to denote the internal diameter of a gun barrel. This measurement is crucial for determining the size of ammunition a particular firearm can safely and effectively fire. Different mérszám values correspond to different bullet diameters.

The mérszám system in Hungary, like in many other countries, is often expressed in millimeters (e.g., 9mm mérszám) or in a caliber system that relates to the bore diameter (e.g., .22 mérszám for .22 caliber). Historically, the term also encompassed older measurement systems where the mérszám might have referred to the number of lead balls of a certain diameter that could be cast from one pound of lead. However, in modern usage, it almost exclusively refers to the bore diameter of firearms.

Understanding the mérszám of a firearm is essential for any gun owner or enthusiast, as using ammunition of the incorrect mérszám can lead to severe damage to the firearm or dangerous malfunctions. It is a fundamental specification for identifying compatible ammunition and ensuring safe operation.