There are several different types of firearms, each with unique characteristics and intended uses. The most common types include handguns, rifles, and shotguns.

Handguns, as the name suggests, are designed to be held and fired with one hand. They can be further divided into subtypes such as revolvers and semi-automatic pistols, with each having different mechanisms for loading and firing.

Rifles are long guns with a rifled barrel, which means the interior of the barrel has a series of grooves that cause the bullet to spin as it exits the muzzle, improving accuracy. They can be designed for various purposes, such as hunting, sport shooting, or military use.

Shotguns are designed to fire shells that contain multiple pellets, which spread out as they travel, making them effective for hunting birds or small game at close range. They can also be used for sport shooting or home defense.

Other less common types of firearms include machine guns, which can fire a high volume of bullets quickly, and sniper rifles, which are designed for long-range accuracy. Additionally, there are various types of specialized firearms used by law enforcement and military personnel.