Gun

A gun is a weapon that fires projectiles, usually bullets, often through a barrel. Guns vary in size and purpose from handguns, rifles, shotguns and machine guns, which can often be carried by individuals, through to guns which require a mount. Guns are primarily, though not exclusively, used as weapons; guns are also used in sport - for hunting, target shooting and in athletics as a starter pistol.

Due to the nature of guns as offensive weapons, many countries ban or regulate the ownership and use of guns (see gun politics). There are also rules that gun owners tend to learn in order to effectively handle guns in a safe manner - the National Rifle Association have a set of three rules which are taught to ensure safety when handling guns:

1. ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction.
2. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot.
3. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.