Which of the following is NOT a basic component of ammunition?

The correct answer is that the barrel is not a basic component of ammunition. Ammunition consists of several key elements that work together to function properly when fired from a firearm. Those elements include the case, primer, and gunpowder.

The case holds all the necessary components together and is typically made of brass, steel, or aluminum. The primer is a small charge that ignites the gunpowder when struck by the firing pin. Gunpowder serves as the propellant that creates the gas needed to push the bullet out of the barrel.

While the barrel is an essential part of a firearm itself, facilitating the passage of the bullet as it's fired, it does not fall under the category of ammunition components. Therefore, it is accurate to identify the barrel as the answer that does not belong with the other options related specifically to ammunition.