Even though the gun control debate continues, there are many types of guns that law-abiding American citizens may carry. Although there was a federal assault weapons ban from 1994 to 2004, the federal government has been generally very hesitant to prescribe "one-size-fits-all" laws regarding the possession, use and selling of firearms.
Since 1986, a number of restrictions have been placed on certain members of society, such as illegal aliens, controlled substance users, dishonorably discharged veterans, "Benedict Arnolds," the mentally unstable and perpetrators of felonious crimes and domestic violence. For the rest of us, there are a number of shotguns and pistols available for purchase.
One broad category of guns is handguns. These compact weapons are designed to be hand-held, as the name implies, and are specifically designed for self-defense purposes. Their size, weight and style make them ideal for those with concealed carry permits. However, for this very reason, a number of municipalities have deemed these weapons "more dangerous" and have placed stricter gun regulations on them.
Many collectors appreciate the hand firearm's ability to fire multiple shots quickly more than its accuracy. The most common defensive guns are the double action revolver (such as the Smith & Wesson 500 or the 357 Magnum) and the semiautomatic pistol (like the Glock 17 or the Browning 9mm).
Another broad category of guns are the long guns (or "shoulder guns"), which includes shotguns and rifles. These guns are characterized by longer barrels, butt stocks, powerful cartridges and greater long-range accuracy. Rifles can be single shot or bolt action, lever action or pump action.
Military rifles may be automatic or semiautomatic, with many holding 5 to 50 rounds. Shotguns look similar to rifles on the exterior but the guns ammo differs. Shotguns carry a large slug projectile, which holds many tiny pellets. Shotguns can be purchased in single shot, double barrel, pump action or semiautomatic varieties.
One of the most popular types of guns today is still the single action revolver like the Colt 45, which is easier to shoot and makes the ideal weapon for hobbies like trick shooting. Criminals have popularized semiautomatic submachine guns like the Uzi, which holds 20-30 powerful rounds and costs a small fortune to purchase on the black market.
Kids often use pressurized or spring compressed airguns and BB guns in play. Derringers are one of the most popular handguns used in self-defense. Lastly, big game hunters have taken to guns like the Remington 870 shotgun, which is versatile with 10" barrels and no buttstock.
