What is the difference between a primer and a detonator?

• A. A primer initiates the main explosive charge; a detonator provides a shock wave to initiate the charge or additional energetic materials
• B. A primer is used for decorative purposes
• C. A detonator is used to seal the cartridge
• D. A primer contains water

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how ignition works with energetic materials. A primer in a firearm cartridge sits at the base of the case and, when struck, detonates to ignite the propellant inside the cartridge. That rapid burn of the propellant creates the pressure that pushes the bullet out of the barrel. A detonator, by contrast, is used to start detonation in a separate explosive charge; it produces a strong shock wave that initiates the explosive material, or other energetic materials, rather than simply lighting a flame. So the key difference is that a primer starts the burning of the cartridge’s propellant, while a detonator provides a shock wave to initiate detonation of a separate explosive.