Assault Weapon

An assault weapon is typically defined as a firearm designed for rapid fire and capable of accepting detachable magazines, allowing for quick reloading. These guns often feature military characteristics, such as pistol grips, folding stocks, and flash suppressors. While the term can vary by legal definition and geographic location, it generally encompasses semi-automatic rifles and certain handguns that can fire many rounds quickly. The term is often used in discussions about gun control, with debates focusing on their role in crime and mass shootings versus rights of gun ownership.