semiautomat

Semiautomat, a term used in several languages, refers to a semiautomatic firearm. It fires one cartridge per trigger pull. After firing, energy from the discharge cycles the action, ejecting the spent case, cocking the hammer or striker, and chambering a new round from the magazine. The shooter must release and press the trigger again for another shot. This differs from automatic firearms, which fire continuously while the trigger is held, and from manually operated actions such as bolt-action rifles.

Semiautomatic firearms include pistols, rifles and shotguns. Design varies in feeding (magazines), action type (gas- or recoil-operated, or other systems), and calibers. Reliability and performance depend on design, ammunition quality, and maintenance.

Semiautomatic mechanisms were developed over the late 19th and early 20th centuries and are now common in military, law enforcement, sport shooting, and civilian markets. Regulation of semiautomatics varies by country and often covers licensing, permissible calibers, magazine limits, and storage requirements. Safety considerations emphasize responsible handling, proper storage, and compliance with local laws.