G3s

G3s is a plural term that can refer to several different topics, depending on context. Two of the most common meanings are a family of firearms and a line of computer processors used by Apple. In other uses, the letters G3 may denote groups or models in niche fields, but those meanings are far less widespread.

Gewehr 3 and its derivatives, commonly called the G3, is a battle rifle designed by Heckler & Koch in West Germany during the 1950s. It was adopted in 1959 for 7.62×51mm NATO ammunition and is known for its roller-delayed blowback action. The rifle was produced in several variants, including the G3A3 and G3A4, with semi-automatic and select-fire configurations. It achieved broad export and service use in many countries through the late 20th century and into the 21st century. The G3 has influenced later designs and remains in limited or reserve service in some forces, even as many operators replaced it with newer rifles.

PowerPC G3 refers to a generation of Apple’s PowerPC-based processors and the Macintosh computers that used them. Introduced in the late 1990s, the PowerPC G3 (centered on the 750-class cores) powered models such as the iMac G3, Power Macintosh G3, and various iBook and PowerBook G3 laptops. The G3 offered performance gains over the previous generation and helped drive Apple’s consumer and professional lines during that period. It was eventually superseded by the PowerPC G4 and later transitions to Intel architecture, with production and new designs ending in the early 2000s.

In sum, G3s most often refer to the Gewehr 3 rifle family or Apple’s PowerPC G3 computers, with other uses being comparatively rare.