shmups.system11.org

In Axelay on the SNES, I'm having some confusion. It seems that sometimes, when I get hit/run into something, I lose one of my weapons but I don't lose any lives. When I lose my last weapon, I lose a life. Other times though, I'll get hit when I have all my weapons and I'll lose a life instantly.

What determines whether I lose a weapon or a life when I get hit?

Generally speaking, if an enemy bullet or other type of projectile hits you, you just lose that weapon. If you hit an obstacle/wall or enemy ship, however, it's an instant kill.