What components are used in the mechanism of a firearm?

The most relevant components used in the mechanism of a firearm include elements that are directly involved in the firing process. The firing pin and striker play critical roles in igniting the cartridge. The firing pin is responsible for striking the primer of the cartridge, while the striker may serve a similar purpose depending on the firearm's design. When the trigger is pulled, the firing mechanism is engaged, allowing the firing pin or striker to move forward with force and hit the primer, resulting in the ignition of the gunpowder and ultimately firing the bullet.

The other components listed, while important to the overall function of a firearm, are not directly involved in the core firing mechanism. For instance, a chamber holds the cartridge, and a safety is a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge, but they do not initiate the firing process. Similarly, a trigger guard protects the trigger but does not contribute to firing the weapon. In another case, the slide and hammer spring are part of the mechanical operation but do not fulfill the same functional role as the firing pin and striker.