What is the key difference between semi-automatic and automatic firearms?

• A. Semi-automatic: One shot is fired each time the trigger is pulled
• B. Semi-automatic: Fires continuously when the trigger is depressed
• C. Automatic: One shot is fired each time the trigger is pulled
• D. Automatic: Fires continuously when the trigger is depressed

Answer: (A)

Firing behavior distinguishes semi-automatic from automatic systems. In a semi-automatic firearm, one trigger pull yields one round; after firing, the action automatically cycles to chamber the next round, but the trigger must be released and pulled again for each subsequent shot. This means you don’t get continuous fire just by holding the trigger. Automatic firearms will continue firing as long as the trigger is held down and there is ammunition, producing a continuous stream of shots until you release the trigger or run out of rounds. The option describing one shot per trigger pull matches how semi-automatic weapons operate, making it the correct description.