“Short guns” isn’t a technically precise term in firearms terminology. It’s more of a colloquialism that can refer to a few different types of firearms, often with negative connotations due to their perceived concealability and association with criminal activity. It’s important to be precise when discussing firearms, so here’s a breakdown of what “short gun” might mean, and the proper terminology:

Short-barreled rifles (SBRs): These are rifles with barrels shorter than 16 inches and/or an overall length of less than 26 inches. They are regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) in the United States and require special licensing and registration. SBRs are often confused with pistols, but the key difference is that they are designed to be fired from the shoulder.  

Short-barreled shotguns (SBSs): Similar to SBRs, these are shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches and/or an overall length of less than 26 inches. They are also NFA-regulated.  

Handguns/Pistols: These are designed to be fired with one hand and are generally shorter than rifles or shotguns. While some handguns can be quite small, the term “short gun” is not typically used to describe them unless the context implies something more clandestine.

Concealed Carry Handguns: These are handguns specifically designed for easy concealment, often smaller and lighter than full-sized handguns. Again, “short gun” is not the correct term, though this is perhaps the closest common usage.  

It’s crucial to avoid using the term “short gun” when discussing firearms. Using the correct terminology (SBR, SBS, handgun, etc.) is essential for clear communication and avoids misunderstandings, especially in legal or technical contexts. It also helps to dispel the negative stereotypes associated with the colloquial term.

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