What is what does it mean to cock a gun?

Cocking a gun refers to the action of preparing a firearm for firing. Essentially, it involves manipulating the weapon's mechanism to move a hammer, striker, or similar component into a position where releasing it will ignite the primer of a cartridge or shotshell.

The specific method of cocking varies depending on the type of firearm. Some firearms, like many revolvers, can be manually cocked by pulling back the hammer. Semi-automatic firearms often cock themselves automatically as part of their firing cycle, utilizing the energy from the previous shot to reload and cock the weapon. Lever-action and pump-action firearms require manual manipulation to both chamber a new round and cock the firing mechanism.

Cocking a gun typically makes it ready to fire with a single action, such as pulling the trigger. It is a critical step in the firing sequence, enabling the weapon to discharge its projectile.