What component of a semiautomatic firearm contains the firing pin, extractor, and recoil spring?

The component of a semiautomatic firearm that includes the firing pin, extractor, and recoil spring is known as the slide. The slide is a critical part of the firearm's operation, as it houses these components, which work together to facilitate the cycling of the firearm after a round is fired.

The firing pin is responsible for striking the primer of the cartridge, igniting the gunpowder and firing the bullet. The extractor plays a crucial role in removing the spent cartridge casing from the chamber after firing, allowing for the next round to be loaded. The recoil spring is essential for returning the slide to its original position after it has moved backward during the firing process, thus enabling the next round to be chambered and prepared for subsequent firing.

In contrast, the frame of the firearm serves as the structure that houses all components and provides stability, while the barrel directs the bullet's path after it is fired. The trigger mechanism is responsible for initiating the firing sequence but does not contain the essential cycling components found within the slide.