A long gun is a firearm that has a barrel length of at least 16 inches and is designed to be fired from the shoulder. Long guns are typically classified as rifles or shotguns, and are commonly used for hunting, target shooting, and home defense.
Rifles are long guns that are designed to fire a single bullet or round at a time. They are typically more accurate than shotguns and are commonly used for target shooting and hunting small game such as rabbits, squirrels, and birds. Rifles come in a variety of calibers, or bullet sizes, ranging from small .22 caliber rounds to larger rounds such as .30-06 or .308 Winchester.
Shotguns are long guns that are designed to fire a variety of projectiles, including shot, slugs, and buckshot. Shotguns are commonly used for hunting birds, such as ducks and geese, as well as for shooting clay pigeons and other targets. Shotguns are also popular for home defense, as the wide spray of shot can be effective in stopping an intruder.
Long guns are often preferred over handguns for home defense due to their longer barrels and greater accuracy. Long guns are also easier to handle and more stable when firing than handguns, which can be difficult to control during rapid fire.
In addition to rifles and shotguns, there are several other types of long guns, including carbines and muskets. Carbines are shorter and lighter than rifles, and are commonly used by military and law enforcement personnel. Muskets are large, smoothbore firearms that were commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Long guns are subject to strict regulations in many countries, including the United States. In the US, long guns can be purchased by anyone over the age of 18 who passes a background check. However, some states and cities have additional restrictions on the purchase and possession of long guns.
Long guns are also subject to a variety of safety rules and guidelines. It is important to always treat a long gun as if it is loaded, even if you are certain that it is not. Never point a long gun at anything you do not intend to shoot, and always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire.
Overall, long guns are an important part of the firearms industry and are commonly used for a variety of purposes. Whether you are a hunter, target shooter, or simply looking for a way to protect your home, a long gun can provide you with the accuracy and power you need to get the job done.