Let’s take a look inside a gun as it goes off. For the purposes of this, we’ll use the simple Blowback action of a Sig 230/232. It uses a .380 ACP, otherwise known as a 9x17mm, or 9mm kurtz.
First we slide a loaded magazine into the grip of the pistol.
Once the magazine is in place, we pull back on the slide. This has the single effect of cocking the hammer.
Now, we release the slide. The spring around the barrel will push the slide back into place. As it moves forward, the slide will strip one round off the top of the magazine and slide it into the chamber. The spring also holds the breech face, which is part of the slide, against the back of the casing. The weapon is loaded and ready to fire.
