auto-loader

A semi-automatic firearm.

An “auto-loading” firearm is one which utilizes some of the energy released by discharging the firearm to automatically load another cartridge into the firearm’s chamber and cock the hammer or striker.

The term “auto-loader” is normally only used with long guns, even though semi-automatic handguns are indeed auto-loading firearms.

The terms “auto-loader” and “auto-loading” are not used for fully-automatic firearms, even though they are indeed auto-loading firearms.