Since they revolutionized combat and became indispensable means for personal security, handheld firearms have been instrumental in determining the path of history. In this article, we shall examine the types, uses, and historical importance of the wide range of portable weapons. These weapons have changed throughout the years, reflecting improvements in technology, design, and utility, from traditional revolvers to cutting-edge semi-automatic pistols.
Handheld guns have been around for over 700 years, with the first modern ones in the 16th century. Today, we have semi-automatic pistols, revolvers, break-action pistols, and bolt-action pistols. Semi-automatic pistols are the most common, with thousands of models. We’ll look at each type, their uses, and why knowing them is important.
Key Takeaways
- Handguns have been in existence for over 700 years
- Semi-automatic pistols are the most popular type of pistol today
- Revolvers have remained relevant for over 150 years in handgun technology
- Understanding the different types of handguns, pistols, and revolvers is key to making smart choices
- Types of handheld guns include semi-automatic pistols, revolvers, break-action pistols, and bolt-action pistols
- Popular handguns include Glock 19, CZ 75B, and Smith & Wesson .44 Magnum
- 9mm is seen as the best handgun caliber for home defense and concealed carry
We’ll keep exploring handheld guns. We’ll talk about their mechanics, uses, and why knowing the different types is vital. This includes semi-automatic pistols and revolvers, as well as compact and subcompact versions.
Understanding Basic Firearm Classifications
Firearms are divided into several types, like semi-automatic guns, revolvers, shotguns, and rifles. Knowing how these firearms work is key. The Firearms Reference Table (FRT) helps identify these types. It’s used by police and others to classify firearms.
Semi-automatic pistols are a common type. They load cartridges into a magazine in the grip. Shotguns have one or two barrels and are fired from the shoulder. They are known for their large gauge size.
Rifles and carbines have rifling in their barrels. This gives the bullet spin. They can be single-shot or semi-automatic. Knowing these details is important for gun owners and those carrying concealed weapons.
Firearm use is regulated by laws, including background checks and waiting periods. Gun deaths and active shooter events are a concern. In 2020, 79% of murders involved a gun. It’s important to handle guns safely and know their types.
Types of Handheld Guns and Their Applications
We will explore the various types of handheld guns, including semi-automatic pistols, revolvers, and other types of firearms. We will look at their uses in self-defense, hunting, and sport shooting. The guide covers 30 different types of guns, from historical flintlock pistols to modern semi-automatic pistols and assault rifles. Handguns are the smallest category of firearms, operated with one hand, and include pistols and revolvers.
Revolvers are known for their reliability, making them a favorite for about 25% of self-defense scenarios, according to user reports. Semi-automatic pistols are used in self-defense, law enforcement, and for fun, making up about 40% of civilian handguns in the U.S.. Pistols usually don’t shoot farther than 100 meters, while rifles can hit targets over 500 meters.
Some of the key types of handheld guns include:
- Semi-automatic pistols, such as Glock and Beretta
- Revolvers, like the Colt Single Action Army
- Derringers, prized for their concealability
These firearms are used for self-defense, hunting, and sport shooting, with each type suited for specific uses. As we explore handheld guns, it’s key to know their characteristics and uses.
With so many handguns out there, picking the right one is important. Consider reliability, accuracy, and use when choosing. By understanding handheld guns and their uses, you can pick the best firearm for your needs.
Handheld weapons come in a wide variety, from traditional revolvers and semi-automatic pistols for self-defense to shotguns for home defense and hunting. For a variety of combat situations, the military and law enforcement rely on submachine guns, assault rifles, and machine pistols.
Revolver
Revolvers are among the earliest styles of handguns, distinguished by their spinning cylinders that may accommodate several rounds. The American Civil War and the Wild West era saw a significant increase in the use of these firearms. They are adaptable options for both personal protection and sport shooting since they are dependable, simple to use, and available in a range of calibers.
Semi-Automatic Pistol
Self-loading handguns, often known as semi-automatic pistols, have grown to be the norm for law enforcement and home protection. These weapons enable rapid firing without manual reloading by using the energy of recoil to expel spent casings and chamber a new cartridge. Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, and Glock are well-known brands of semi-automatic handguns.
Derringer
Small, pocket-sized pistols called derringers are frequently made for close-range self-defense. These single- or double-barreled firearms are renowned for their small stature and ease of use, which makes them simple to hide. Although they don’t have the same amount of firepower as bigger guns, their stealthiness can be useful in some circumstances.
Shotgun
Shotguns are adaptable weapons made for a variety of uses, including home defense and hunting. These firearms discharge shells that include several pellets or a single slug, offering a broad distribution of projectiles or a concentrated amount of stopping force, respectively. There are many gauges of shotguns, with the 12-gauge being the most common.
Gun Submachine
Compact automatic weapons, known as submachine guns, are often utilized by military and law enforcement agencies. They can fire a large number of rounds in a brief period of time and are built for close-quarters fighting. Submachine guns, such as the renowned Uzi and Heckler & Koch MP5, are excellent examples.
Attack Rifle
Selective-fire weapons like assault rifles may shoot in both semi-automatic and fully automatic modes. They are often employed by armed forces all over the world. The M16/M4 series and the AK-47 are two of the most recognizable assault rifles, known for their dependability and extensive use.
Machine Pistol
Machine pistols are small, automatic weapons that fall in between handguns and submachine guns in terms of design. These weapons are portable and simple to use while yet having rapid firing capability. Machine guns like the Glock 18 and Beretta 93R are well-known models.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Handheld Guns for Your Needs
There are many different types of portable weapons, each with special characteristics and intended uses. The world of weapons is large and diverse, ranging from the time-tested dependability of revolvers to the cutting-edge technology of semi-automatic pistols. Shotguns are versatile for both hunting and self-defense, while derringers are small and covert possibilities for self-defense.
Machine pistols provide a combination of firepower and mobility, while submachine guns and assault rifles are indispensable equipment for the military and law enforcement.
It is essential to understand that using or possessing a firearm entails a tremendous deal of responsibility. To prevent accidents and abuse, safety instruction and strict adherence to weapons rules are essential. Knowing the various sorts of handguns is only the first step; proper ownership and use are equally important.
Choosing the right firearm involves many factors. For home defense, 9mm handguns are popular. They balance power and recoil well. Semi-automatic pistols hold more rounds, reload faster, and pack more punch than revolvers. Revolvers, in .38 Special or .357 Magnum, are reliable and powerful.
Shotguns are great for their stopping power. They deliver a lot of energy and can stop threats fast. Their wide shot patterns help hit targets, making them good for home defense. In small spaces, handguns or short-barreled shotguns are best because they’re easy to move around.
It’s not just about the gun’s power. How easy it is to use and maintain matters a lot to 80% of owners. Features like manual safeties and trigger locks are key, too. They help keep homes safe, even with kids around.
Source Links
- Types of Handguns: A Complete Guide
- Types of Pistols: A Guide for Beginners
- Types of Guns & Firearms | The Range 702
- Firearms Module 2 Key Issues: Common firearms types
- Total beginners guide to guns