ranged

Ranged refers to the capability to engage targets at a distance beyond melee reach. It encompasses weapons and attacks effective at longer ranges, including projectile weapons such as bows, crossbows, firearms, artillery, as well as energy-based or thrown weapons and tools used to hit distant targets. In military and tactical contexts, ranged combat relies on weapons that can project force without close proximity, and it is contrasted with melee combat, which depends on hand-to-hand or close-quarters weapons.

Important concepts include range, effective range, accuracy, and line of sight. Effective range is the maximum distance at which a weapon can reliably inflict damage under typical conditions. Range is influenced by projectile trajectory, gravity, wind, recoil, and in firearms by ballistic performance. In many systems, attacks have a range category or range increment that defines how far the attacker can reach.

In historical development, ranged weapons emerged early with throwing spears and bows and arrows, followed by gunpowder-based firearms and artillery. Each advance expanded the practical reach of armed forces and altered tactics, fortifications, and supply chains.

In modern contexts, ranged weapons vary widely in rate of fire, accuracy, reload or rearm time, and mobility. Limitations include susceptibility to weather, visibility, ammunition or energy supply, and the need for targeting systems or training.

In games and simulations, ranged mechanics often incorporate line of sight, cover, range brackets, and modifiers for distance, terrain, and elevation, creating strategic considerations distinct from melee engagements. See also melee, archery, firearms.