smallarm

Small arms are portable, person-carried weapons designed to be operated by a single individual. They are intended for use by military personnel, law enforcement, and civilians in various contexts. Small arms include pistols and revolvers; rifles and carbines; shotguns; submachine guns; and light machine guns. They are distinct from crew-served weapons such as machine guns mounted on vehicles, artillery, and anti-tank weapons. Ammunition is a critical component of small arms systems, with calibers ranging widely; common modern service calibers include 5.56×45mm NATO, 7.62×39mm, 7.62×51mm NATO, and 9×19mm Parabellum.

Operationally, small arms rely on cartridges that provide propulsion for projectiles. Designs vary by action: bolt-action, lever-action, semi-automatic, and fully automatic or select-fire variants. Feeding is usually via detachable magazines or drum magazines. Most modern small arms are gas-operated or recoil-operated, and feature controls such as safeties, selectors, and reload mechanisms. Sights range from open irons to optical scopes, with many platforms supporting accessory rails for attachments.

Historically, small arms evolved from matchlock and flintlock firearms to modern repeaters and assault rifles. The post–World War II era saw rapid development in selective-fire rifles and compact submachine guns, culminating in widely adopted platforms such as the AK-47 and the M16 family. Ownership and use are regulated to varying degrees around the world. Civilian possession, transfer, and use are often restricted by law, and international transfers are governed by export controls and, in some regions, arms embargoes. The illicit trade in small arms remains a major global security concern.

Manufacture and standardization are industry and military concerns. Small arms are produced by state arsenals and private manufacturers, with modern designs emphasizing durability, reliability, and modularity. Common features include ergonomic grips, safety mechanisms, and accessory rails to mount optics, lights, and aiming devices. The proliferation of small arms affects conflict, policing, and civilian life, shaping policy debates on disarmament, regulation, and responsible ownership.