What is the fundamental definition of a handgun?

A handgun is defined as a firearm specifically designed to be operated and fired using only one hand. This distinguishes it from long guns like rifles or shotguns, which are typically designed to be held with two hands and braced against the shoulder.

How do handguns compare to long guns in terms of range and accuracy?

Handguns generally have shorter effective ranges compared to long guns, and they are also more challenging to shoot accurately due to their smaller size and lack of shoulder support.

What were the two most common types of handguns in modern use, according to the text?

The two most common types of handguns used in modern times are revolvers and semi-automatic pistols.

Before the advent of mass production, how were handguns often perceived or utilized?

Prior to commercial mass production, handguns were often considered status symbols, akin to a ceremonial sword, due to their limited utility and higher cost compared to long guns of the era.

What significant invention by Samuel Colt in 1836 revolutionized handgun capabilities?

In 1836, Samuel Colt patented the Colt Paterson, which was the first practical, mass-produced revolver. This firearm was capable of firing five shots in rapid succession, significantly increasing the utility of handguns.

How does Encyclopædia Britannica define a handgun?

According to Encyclopædia Britannica, a handgun is defined as any firearm that is small enough to be held in one hand when fired.

What is Webster's Dictionary definition of a handgun?

Webster's Dictionary defines a handgun as a firearm, such as a revolver or pistol, designed to be held and fired with one hand.

Do US or UK firearms licensing authorities provide specific legal definitions for handguns?

Neither the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) nor the UK Government, which are responsible for firearms licensing in their respective countries, offer specific legal definitions for a handgun.

How does the U.S. ATF define 'handgun – pistol' and 'handgun – revolver'?

The ATF defines both 'handgun – pistol' and 'handgun – revolver' with a 'pistol-type' description, referring to a weapon originally designed, made, and intended to fire a projectile (bullet) from one or more barrels when held in one hand.

What are the three criteria used in Australian gun laws to define a 'handgun'?

Australian gun laws, under the National Firearms Agreement, define a handgun based on three criteria: it must be reasonably capable of being carried or concealed on the person, reasonably capable of being raised and fired by one hand, or not exceed 65 centimeters (26 inches) in length measured parallel to the barrel.

Where did firearms originate, and what is identified as the oldest known bronze barrel handgun?

Firearms originated in China, where gunpowder was first developed. The oldest known bronze barrel handgun is the Heilongjiang hand cannon, dating back to 1288.

Can you describe the physical dimensions of the Heilongjiang hand cannon?

The Heilongjiang hand cannon measures 34 cm (13.4 inches) in length without a handle and weighs 3.55 kg (7.83 pounds). Its powder chamber has a diameter of 6.6 cm (2.6 inches), and the barrel's interior diameter at the end is 2.5 cm (1.0 inch).

What was the 'Yoshi' on early hand cannons?

The 'Yoshi' was a bulbous base at the breech end of early hand cannons, serving as the gunpowder chamber where the explosion propelling the projectile occurred. Its thick walls were designed to withstand explosive pressure.

What innovation did the Joseon dynasty introduce in 1432 regarding handguns?

In 1432, the Joseon dynasty introduced the se-chongtong, considered the world's first handgun. It featured a 'cheolheumja' (iron tong-handle) that allowed for a quick barrel change for subsequent shots.

How was the se-chongtong used, and what was its effective range?

The se-chongtong was used as a personal defense weapon by soldiers, civilians, women, and children. It fired a standardized arrow called a chase-jeon and had a maximum fatal range of approximately 200 footsteps (about 250 meters).

When did the matchlock mechanism appear in Europe, and what was its historical significance?

The matchlock mechanism appeared in Europe in the mid-15th century and was significant as the first mechanism invented to facilitate the firing of a hand-held firearm.

How did the classic European matchlock firearm operate?

The European matchlock held a burning slow match in a clamp called a serpentine. Pulling a lever or trigger lowered the serpentine, bringing the match into contact with priming powder in a pan, which ignited the main charge in the barrel via the touch hole.

What was the primary advantage of the wheellock mechanism over the matchlock?

The wheellock offered the advantage of being instantly ready to fire, even with one hand, unlike the matchlock which required careful preparation of a burning cord and often two hands to operate.

How does a wheellock mechanism generate sparks?

A wheellock generates sparks by spinning a spring-loaded steel wheel against a piece of pyrite. This friction creates sparks that ignite gunpowder in a pan, which then ignites the main charge in the barrel.

What were the drawbacks of wheellock firearms?

Wheellock mechanisms were complex to manufacture, making them relatively expensive compared to other firearm ignition systems of the time.

What is a flintlock, and what was its impact on firearm technology?

A flintlock is a firearm that uses a flint-striking ignition mechanism. Introduced in the early 17th century, it rapidly replaced earlier ignition technologies like the matchlock and wheellock.

How were flintlock pistols typically used, and what were their common characteristics?

Flintlock pistols were often used for self-defense, frequently in conjunction with a sword or cutlass. They were typically smoothbore, though some rifled versions existed, and came in various sizes, with many being relatively short for concealability.

What distinguished the English duelling pistol among flintlock designs?

The English duelling pistol was noted for its high reliability, water resistance, and accuracy. While often minimally decorated externally, their internal mechanisms were crafted with a high degree of skill.

When was the caplock mechanism developed, and what did it utilize for ignition?

The caplock mechanism, or percussion lock, was developed in the early 19th century. It used a percussion cap, struck by the hammer, to ignite the main charge, replacing the flint-and-steel system of the flintlock.

Who developed the initial percussion ignition system, and what problem did it address?

Reverend Alexander John Forsyth developed the rudimentary percussion system. He aimed to solve the problem of birds being startled by the smoke from a flintlock's powder pan, which gave them warning to escape.

What were the key improvements offered by the caplock mechanism over the flintlock?

The caplock mechanism was easier to load, more resistant to weather, and significantly more reliable than the flintlock, leading many older flintlock weapons to be converted to caplocks.

How does a caplock mechanism function?

A caplock mechanism uses a hammer to strike a small percussion cap containing mercury fulminate. The explosion from the cap sends flames through a nipple into the barrel, igniting the main powder charge.

What was the significance of Samuel Colt's 1836 patent regarding revolvers?

Samuel Colt's 1836 patent secured the rights for the Colt Paterson, the first practical, mass-produced revolver, which allowed for multiple shots to be fired in rapid succession.

How did the Colt Paterson's design evolve regarding reloading?

The initial Colt Paterson revolvers lacked a loading lever, requiring partial disassembly for reloading. Starting in 1839, a reloading lever and capping window were incorporated, simplifying the reloading process.

What was the Colt Walker revolver, and who collaborated on its design?

The Colt Walker was a single-action revolver designed in 1846 as a collaboration between Captain Samuel Hamilton Walker and firearms inventor Samuel Colt. It featured a revolving cylinder holding six charges of black powder and bullets.

How did the Colt 1851 Navy Revolver compare in size and weight to the Colt Dragoon Revolvers?

The Colt 1851 Navy Revolver was significantly lighter than the contemporary Colt Dragoon Revolvers, which were derived from the larger Walker Colt revolvers.

What made the Smith & Wesson Model 1 a commercially successful revolver?

The Smith & Wesson Model 1 was the first commercially successful revolver to utilize metallic rimfire cartridges instead of loose powder, balls, and percussion caps.

What was the Smith & Wesson Model 3 known for, and what influence did it have?

The Smith & Wesson Model 3 was a single-action, top-break revolver produced from around 1870 to 1915. Its design influenced the smaller S&W .38 Single Action, retroactively known as the Model 2, and it featured automatic ejection of spent cases when opened.

What is the historical significance of the Colt Single Action Army (SAA)?

The Colt Single Action Army, also known as the Peacemaker or M1873, was adopted as the standard U.S. military service revolver until 1892. It became a famous piece of Americana, known as 'The Gun That Won the West'.

What innovation did Colt introduce with the Model 1889 revolver?

The Colt Model 1889 introduced the first truly modern double-action revolver with a 'swing-out' cylinder, which offered advantages over earlier top-break or side-loading designs.

What technological advancements enabled the 'Magnum Era' of handguns?

The development of the metallic cartridge and smokeless powder allowed for significant improvements in handgun ballistics, paving the way for more powerful cartridges and leading to the 'Magnum Era'.

What handgun is considered the first chambered for .357 Magnum, marking the start of the 'Magnum Era'?

The Smith & Wesson Registered Magnum, later known as the Smith & Wesson Model 27, released in 1935, was the first revolver chambered for the .357 Magnum cartridge, initiating the 'Magnum Era'.

What made the Smith & Wesson Model 19 significant in the Magnum Era?

The Smith & Wesson Model 19, introduced in 1955, was a .357 Magnum revolver built on the K-frame, making it smaller and lighter than the original Model 27 .357 Magnum revolvers.

What is a derringer, and how did the term become genericized?

A derringer is a type of pocket pistol, originally a single-shot muzzleloading percussion cap pistol introduced by Henry Deringer. The term 'derringer' became a genericized misspelling of his name, applied to many similar small pocket pistols.

What was the Remington Model 95 derringer, and what was its impact?

The Remington Model 95 was one of the first metallic cartridge handguns, an over-under, double-barreled derringer. Its widespread popularity made it synonymous with the word 'derringer' and overshadowed earlier designs.

What made the Mauser C96 significant in the history of semi-automatic pistols?

The Mauser C96, introduced in 1896, was the first mass-produced and commercially successful semi-automatic pistol, utilizing the recoil energy of a fired shot to reload the next round.

What were the distinctive features of the Mauser C96 pistol?

The Mauser C96 was characterized by its integral 10-round magazine, long barrel, optional wooden shoulder stock, and a broom-handle-shaped grip, which earned it the nickname 'broomhandle'.

What is the Pistole Parabellum commonly known as in the United States?

The Pistole Parabellum is commonly known in the United States as the Luger pistol.

Who designed the Luger pistol, and what was it an improvement upon?

Georg Luger patented the Luger pistol as an improvement upon the Borchardt Automatic Pistol. It was produced by Deutsche Waffen und Munitionsfabriken (DWM) starting in 1898.

What was the significance of the Colt Model 1911 in firearm design?

The Colt Model 1911, designed by John Browning, was the standard-issue sidearm for the U.S. Armed Forces from 1911 to 1986. Its short recoil operating system became the predominant design for centerfire pistols in the 20th century.

What made the Walther PP series of pistols revolutionary?

The Walther PP series, introduced in 1929, was among the world's first successful double-action, blowback-operated, semi-automatic pistols. They were popular with police and civilians for their reliability and concealability.

What was the significance of the Browning Hi Power pistol's name and magazine capacity?

The Browning Hi Power's name alluded to its high magazine capacity of 13 rounds, which was nearly double that of contemporary designs like the Luger or Colt M1911. It was one of the first pistols to feature high-capacity, detachable magazines.

What made the Heckler & Koch VP70 a revolutionary firearm?

The Heckler & Koch VP70, introduced in 1970, was revolutionary for being the first pistol to feature a polymer frame, predating the Glock by 12 years. It also offered select-fire capability with an optional stock.

What does the designation 'VP' in the Heckler & Koch VP70 stand for?

VP in the Heckler & Koch VP70 designation stands for 'Volkspistole,' which translates to 'People's Pistol'.

What was the Smith & Wesson Model 59, and why was it notable?

The Smith & Wesson Model 59, introduced in 1971, was notable for being the first standard double-action pistol to utilize a high-capacity, 14-round staggered magazine.

Handgun Wiki: The Handgun: An Examination of Design, History, and Societal Impact

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Definition

Core Classification

A handgun is fundamentally defined as a firearm designed for operation with a single hand. This distinguishes it from long guns, which require two-handed use and are typically braced against the shoulder. Handguns generally possess shorter effective ranges and present greater challenges for precise aiming compared to their long-barreled counterparts. ¹⁵⁶

Legal Definitions

Specific legal definitions vary by jurisdiction. For instance, the Canadian Criminal Code defines a handgun as a firearm designed, altered, or intended to be aimed and fired by the action of one hand, regardless of subsequent modifications for two-handed use. ⁸ Australian gun laws consider factors such as concealability, single-handed operation, and overall length (not exceeding 65 cm). ⁹

Lexical and Official Usage

Reference works like Encyclopædia Britannica and Webster's Dictionary concur on the single-handed operational characteristic. ⁵⁶ Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) also define handguns (pistols and revolvers) based on their design for one-handed firing. ⁷

Historical Evolution

Early Origins: Hand Cannons

Firearms originated in China, with the earliest known bronze-barreled handgun, the Heilongjiang hand cannon, dating to 1288. These early devices featured a bulbous powder chamber and a touch hole for ignition, evolving over time as metallurgical advancements reduced the need for thick, bulbous bases. ¹⁰¹¹

Ignition Mechanisms: Matchlock to Flintlock

Europe saw the development of the matchlock in the mid-15th century, the first mechanism for firing handheld firearms. This was followed by the wheellock around 1500, notable for its self-igniting mechanism using a spinning wheel against pyrite. The flintlock, emerging in the early 17th century, utilized a flint striking steel to generate sparks, becoming a dominant technology for centuries. ²⁰

The Revolver Revolution

Samuel Colt's 1836 patent for the Colt Paterson marked a pivotal moment, introducing the first practical, mass-produced revolver. This innovation, capable of multiple rapid shots, democratized firearm utility. Subsequent designs like the Colt Walker and the iconic Colt Single Action Army ("Peacemaker") further refined the revolver, cementing its role in American history. ³⁴²⁷

Metallic Cartridges and Modernization

The advent of metallic cartridges revolutionized handgun design. Smith & Wesson's Model 1 (1857) was an early success, followed by models like the Model 3 and the Colt Single Action Army, which utilized these self-contained cartridges. This era saw improved reliability, capacity, and ease of use, paving the way for modern semi-automatic pistols. ²⁵²⁶

Key Handgun Types

Revolvers

Characterized by a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers, each aligned sequentially with a single barrel. Early percussion revolvers (e.g., Colt Paterson) used loose powder and percussion caps, while later metallic cartridge revolvers offered greater convenience and reliability. Examples range from the Colt Navy Model 1851 ²³ to the powerful .357 Magnum revolvers. ³¹

Semi-Automatic

These firearms utilize the energy from a fired cartridge (recoil or gas operation) to automatically eject the spent casing and load a new cartridge. They typically feature detachable magazines housed within the grip. Notable examples include the Mauser C96, ³⁹ Luger P08, ⁴¹ Colt M1911, ⁴² Walther PPK, ⁴⁵ Beretta 92, ⁵⁵ and Glock 17, ⁵⁷ each representing significant technological advancements.

Derringers

Compact, often small-caliber firearms, typically firing one or two shots. Originally muzzleloaders (like Henry Deringer's Philadelphia Deringer), they evolved to use metallic cartridges. The Remington Model 95, a double-barreled, tip-up derringer, became synonymous with the term. ³⁵³⁶ Modern iterations remain popular for concealed carry.

Machine

Handguns capable of fully automatic or selective fire. Early examples include the Steyr M1912/P16. Some designs incorporate shoulder stocks or forward grips to enhance control during automatic fire, such as the Heckler & Koch VP70 ⁵²⁵³ and Beretta 93R.

3D Printed

A contemporary development involves firearms produced using 3D printing technology. This area is subject to ongoing technological advancement and evolving legal considerations. (Note: The source material indicates this section is currently empty.)

Legal Frameworks

Global Variations

Handgun laws exhibit significant global diversity, often influenced by historical context, cultural norms, and public safety concerns. The ease of concealment for many handguns has led to specific regulations regarding civilian ownership, carrying, and concealment in public spaces.

United States Context

In the U.S., the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) provides definitions, classifying handguns based on their design for one-handed operation. ⁷ Regulations concerning firearm licensing and possession are complex and vary significantly at federal, state, and local levels.

Canadian Approach

Canada's Criminal Code defines a handgun broadly, encompassing firearms intended for one-handed use, even if later modified. ⁸ This definition reflects a focus on the firearm's inherent design and potential for use.

Australian Regulations

Australian gun laws, particularly those stemming from the National Firearms Agreement, incorporate criteria such as concealability, single-handed firing capability, and overall length, demonstrating a multi-faceted approach to classification and control. ⁹

Key Terminology

Aiming and Firing

Handgun: A firearm designed to be held and fired with one hand. ¹⁶

Long Gun: Firearms requiring two-handed operation, such as rifles or shotguns.

Mechanisms

Revolver: Handgun with a rotating cylinder holding multiple chambers.

Semi-automatic Pistol: Handgun that automatically cycles ammunition after each shot using firearm recoil or gas operation.

Derringer: Typically a small, concealable handgun, often with one or two barrels.

Machine Pistol: Handgun capable of automatic or selective fire.

Historical Terms

Hand Cannon: An early form of handgun, often large and single-shot. ¹⁰

Matchlock: An early firearm ignition system using a slow-burning cord.

Wheellock: An ignition system using a spinning wheel against pyrite to create sparks.

Flintlock: An ignition system using a flint striking steel to create sparks.

Caplock (Percussion Lock): Ignition system using a percussion cap struck by a hammer. ²¹

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References

Chase 2003, p. 32; Needham 1987, p. 293.

Lorge 2008, p. 69; Needham 1987, p. 293.

Needham 1987, p. 289; Needham 1987, p. 330.

Datig, Fred A., The Luger Pistol, Gun Digest, 1957 ed., Chicago Illinois: Edward Keogh Co. Inc. (1956) pp. 164â165

Grevillius, Nils (September 11, 2006). "One Hot Number". Guns & Ammo, Vol. 50 (No. 10): pp 48â53.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Handgun Wikipedia page

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This document has been generated by an AI language model for educational purposes, drawing upon information from publicly available sources, including Wikipedia. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to academic standards, the content is based on a snapshot of data and may not encompass all nuances or the most current developments.

This is not professional advice. The information presented herein is intended for academic understanding and does not constitute legal, historical, or technical consultation. Readers are advised to consult primary sources, official documentation, and qualified experts for specific applications or interpretations. The creators of this content assume no liability for errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided.

The Handgun: An Examination of Design, History, and Societal Impact

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Definition ℹ️

📏 Core Classification

⚖️ Legal Definitions

📚 Lexical and Official Usage

Historical Evolution 📜

🇨🇳 Early Origins: Hand Cannons

🇪🇺 Ignition Mechanisms: Matchlock to Flintlock

🇺🇸 The Revolver Revolution

⚙️ Metallic Cartridges and Modernization

Key Handgun Types 🔫

🔄 Revolvers

➡️ Semi-Automatic

🤏 Derringers

💥 Machine

🖨️ 3D Printed

Legal Frameworks ⚖️

🌐 Global Variations

🇺🇸 United States Context

🇨🇦 Canadian Approach

🇦🇺 Australian Regulations

Key Terminology 📖

🎯 Aiming and Firing

⚙️ Mechanisms

📜 Historical Terms

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Definition

Core Classification

Legal Definitions

Lexical and Official Usage

Historical Evolution

Early Origins: Hand Cannons

Ignition Mechanisms: Matchlock to Flintlock

The Revolver Revolution

Metallic Cartridges and Modernization

Key Handgun Types

Revolvers

Semi-Automatic

Derringers

Machine

3D Printed

Legal Frameworks

Global Variations

United States Context

Canadian Approach

Australian Regulations

Key Terminology

Aiming and Firing

Mechanisms

Historical Terms

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice