Which term is the first stage in the cycle of operation?

• A. Feeding
• B. Chambering
• C. Locking
• D. Firing

Answer: (A)

Feeding starts the cycle of operation because the sequence begins with presenting a cartridge from the ammunition source into a position where it can be chambered. The feeding mechanism moves the next round into alignment with the bore, making it possible for the next step to push it into the chamber. Without this step, there is no cartridge available to chamber, so the cycle cannot proceed. After feeding comes chambering, where the cartridge is actually seated in the chamber, followed by locking to secure the breech for firing, then firing to ignite the powder, and so on through the remaining steps of the cycle.