The fore-end is located between the muzzle and the rifle's action. It can be located under the barrel or completely encircle it. While in most rifles the front part of the barrel is exposed, in carbines and rifles, the barrels are usually completely surrounded by the fore-end up to the muzzle and cannot oscillate freely. In some weapons, free oscillation is possible due to a special mounting. 

The buttstock is located at the rear end of the weapon. It serves as a shoulder support and grip for the hand that also operates the trigger. There are several different types of buttstocks. The most common are the English stock, the German stock, and its various versions.