A pistol can hold a variable number of bullets, depending on the model. Modern pistols can carry up to 17 rounds in their magazines, whereas revolvers typically hold fewer rounds.
Understanding Pistol Capacity
The capacity of a pistol refers to the number of rounds it can hold before needing to be reloaded. The magazine, a removable container that holds the cartridges, determines the capacity of most modern pistols.
- Revolvers: Traditional revolvers typically have a cylinder that holds up to six or seven rounds.
- Modern Pistols: Modern semi-automatic pistols often utilize a detachable magazine. These magazines have varying capacities. For example, the Glock 17 and the Army's M17 Modular Handgun System (Sig P320) are known to hold up to 17 rounds.
Examples of Pistol Capacity
| Pistol Model | Typical Capacity |
|---|---|
| Revolver (typical) | 6-7 Rounds |
| Glock 17 | Up to 17 Rounds |
| M17 (Sig P320) | Up to 17 Rounds |
Factors Influencing Pistol Capacity
The capacity of a pistol is often influenced by its design and intended use. Compact pistols often hold fewer rounds to maintain a smaller size, while full-sized pistols have higher capacities.
Reference Information
The information regarding pistol capacities has been taken from:
- "Unlike revolvers, which are typically limited to up to six or seven rounds, modern pistols can carry up to 17 rounds in a magazine. Examples include the Glock 17 and the Army's M17 Modular Handgun System, also known as the Sig P320."14-Apr-2023
