Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) Practice Exam

The distinction of centre-fire cartridges primarily lies in the location of the primer, which is situated at the base of the cartridge case. This design allows for a sturdy and reliable ignition system that can handle higher pressures and is thus suitable for more powerful ammunition. Centre-fire cartridges are versatile and can be used in a variety of firearms, including rifles and handguns, not just in revolvers.

While there's a common perception that centre-fire cartridges possess greater power, this is fundamentally linked to their construction and ability to contain higher pressure, which is a result of the primer's position allowing for a better seal and more efficient burning of the propellant. This is contrasted with rimfire cartridges, where the primer is located in the rim of the cartridge case, usually limiting the pressures they can withstand.

The suggestion that centre-fire cartridges are exclusive to shotguns or only designed for revolvers is inaccurate, as they can be utilized in multiple types of firearms across various shooting disciplines. This versatility and robust construction is why they are widely used in many firearms applications.