What does the receiver of a bolt-action rifle contain?

The receiver of a bolt-action rifle serves as the central component that houses the essential working parts of the firearm's action. This includes the bolt, which is crucial for chambering, firing, and ejecting cartridges. The receiver's metal construction provides the necessary strength and stability, ensuring that the mechanical components function reliably under the pressures generated during firing.

In a bolt-action rifle, the action is what allows the shooter to manually cycle cartridges into the chamber using the bolt, which is operated by turning and pulling back on the bolt handle. Thus, the receiver is integral to the rifle's operation, combining various elements that work together for successful shooting.

The other options focus on components that, while important to the overall functionality of the rifle, do not accurately define what the receiver contains. For example, the barrel and magazine are distinct parts of the rifle, while the trigger and stock pertain to different aspects of firearm handling and control. Optics and sighting equipment refer to accessories mounted on the rifle for aiming, rather than being part of the receiver itself.