Different Gun Varieties & Its Uses

For those new to guns, and shooting, the choice of guns to buy can be overwhelming, With so many different categories and subcategories of firearms, it can often be difficult to know where to begin. Taking the time to understand the main types of guns and how they are used is the first step to demystifying the different types of firearms available at gun sales in Australia today. 

 

It’s important to remember that every gun owner was in your position at one point or another, feeling out of their depth and unsure as to which gun to buy. Before you start going through each of the different types of firearms available, it’s important first to establish your requirements. When you have a clear idea of why you want a gun and what its intended use is, you will be better able to choose the right type of gun for you. 

 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the different varieties of guns and what their uses are, so you can make the right decision base don your needs. 

 

Handguns Or Pistols

A gun that can be held with one hand is typically classified as a handgun, also known as a pistol. Handguns generally fall under two categories; revolvers and semiautomatics. While each of these firearms is similar in style, they are very different guns. 

 

Revolvers got their name due to the rotating chamber, which will typically hold six rounds. When you pull the trigger, the bullet in the chamber is fired, before the chamber rotates to the next loaded round. Simple and timeless, these guns are easy to use, with a low risk of failure. 

 

The other popular type of handgun is the semi-automatic. These guns have just one chamber and a magazine that holds the remaining ammo. When you pull the trigger of a semi-automatic, the bullet is fired, the empty case is ejected, and another round enters the chamber from the magazine ready to fire. 

 

Handguns are a popular choice for those shooting short-range or for general target practice. They can also be concealed well making them a good choice for home defense. 

 

Rifles

Essentially a rifle is a firearm that is designed to be held with two hands and that needs to be shouldered for support. However, a gun must also meet more specific requirements to be deemed a ‘rifle’. First, it must have a rifled barrel that ensures the bullet will fly straight and true. Technically, the rifled barrel should be 1.25cm or smaller, 40cm in length, and measure a total of 66cms. 

 

Automatic rifles are also available which are usually either semi-automatic or fully automatic. Military units will often use fully automatic rifles as they can hold and fire many rounds while also being tough and durable. 

 

Rifles are suitable for home defense purposes and mid-range shooting or target practice. 

 

Bolt Action/Hunting Rifles

Manually-operated rifles are known as bolt action rifles or, simply, hunting rifles. When shooting with these rifles, you need to cycle the action after each round is fired to eject the used casing and load the next round. Bolt action rifles are renowned for their accuracy and their reliability, so much so that many police snipers still use them in the field. They are also less likely to fail as is the case with most firearms that have a manually-operated action. 

 

As the alternate name for bolt action suggests, this style of rifle is popular with hunters and target shooters due to its long-range capabilities and accuracy. 

 

Shotguns

 

Shotguns can shoot a single bullet, also known as a slug, or they can shoot a group of pellets. However, most shotguns shoot pellets. Similar to rifles in length, one of the primary differences between a shotgun and a rifle is that the barrel of a shotgun is not rifled. Capable of firing anywhere from one to one hundred pellets, shotguns are the right choice for those looking for a firearm to shoot multiple targets. 

 

Shotguns are a good choice for home defense, close-range shooting, and hunting small game. They are also popular with Skeet shooters and can be used for target practice. 

 

Understanding The Different Types Of Guns And Their Uses

 

The gun varieties we have listed above are the main category and subcategories or firearms available nowadays. However, there are many other types of guns available and customization options, depending on your needs. Speak to your local gun store or to members of your local gun club to learn more about the different options available. Choosing the right firearm for the right purpose is key to selecting the right gun, so be sure to take some time to understand the options before you decide on which firearm is right for you.