Recoil
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Recoil is the rearward thrust generated when a gun is being discharged. In technical terms, the recoil is a result of conservation of momentum, as according to Newton's third law the force required to accelerate something will evoke an equal but opposite reactional force, which means the forward momentum gained by the projectile and exhaust gases (ejectae) will be mathematically balanced out by an equal and opposite momentum exerted back upon the gun.
An early naval cannon, which is allowed to roll backwards slightly when fired, and therefore must be tethered with strong ropes
Recoil while firing Smith & Wesson Model 500 revolver
Photograph of the kickback of a cannon, taken in Morges Castle, Switzerland
Recoilless designs allow larger and faster projectiles to be shoulder-launched.
9×19mm Parabellum
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The 9×19mm Parabellum is a rimless, centerfire, tapered firearms cartridge.
Left to right; 9×19mm Parabellum, .40 S&W, 10mm Auto, .45 ACP
Three projectile types: unjacketed (lead), full metal jacket, and hollow point
Swedish 9mm live ammunition m/39 (left, with black seal) and m/39B (right, with red seal and a slightly more pointed shape)
Swedish 9mm live ammunition m/39 and m/39B in their boxes