carbine

A carbine is a firearm that is shorter and lighter than a standard rifle. The defining feature is a shorter barrel, typically under 20 inches, resulting in a more compact overall length. Carbines may share the same action and calibers as their longer rifle counterparts and can be semi-automatic, select-fire, or bolt-action. The term emphasizes portability and handling rather than a particular mechanism.

Historically, carbines originated as shortened muskets used by cavalry and other troops who benefited from easier handling on horseback or in confined terrain. In the 19th and 20th centuries, many rifles were shortened or purpose-built as carbines, creating a family of weapons that retained similar firepower while offering reduced size and weight. In modern usage, carbines can refer to shortened variants of rifles as well as purpose-made compact rifles designed for the same roles.

Modern carbines are common in military, law enforcement, and civilian markets. They preserve the ability to fire standard rifle rounds but typically deliver lower muzzle velocity and a reduced effective range due to the shorter barrel. The advantages include improved maneuverability, lighter recoil, and easier use in close quarters, as well as compatibility with shorter magazines and accessory rails.

Notable examples include the M1 Carbine, an early lightweight U.S. service carbine, and the carbine-length variants of the AR-family, such as the M4, which use shorter barrels and are designed for rapid handling in dynamic environments. The term also applies to shortened versions of other rifles used by police and security services.