Firearms vs. Guns: Understanding the Terminology of the Tool
You walk into a gun shop and ask to see a “gun.” The clerk will likely ask you what kind. The terms “firearm” and “gun” are used interchangeably every day, but in technical, legal, and historical contexts, the distinction matters. A “gun” can refer to a cannon, a grease gun, or a spray gun. A “firearm” is specifically a portable, barreled weapon that uses an explosive charge to propel a projectile. For the responsible owner, knowing the difference isn’t just semantics; it’s about precise communication, especially when dealing with legislation like the National Firearms Act (NFA) or when selecting the right tool for the job from a shop like Americans Gun.
The Legal Distinction: Why “Firearm” is the Official Term
In the eyes of federal and state law, “firearm” is the defined term. The Gun Control Act of 1968 defines a firearm as “any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.” This legal umbrella covers everything from a single-shot .22 derringer to a select-fire M16. The term “gun” is often too vague. For instance, an antique cannon may be a “gun,” but it is not legally a “firearm” if it was manufactured before 1899. When you’re filling out a Form 4473, you’re transferring a firearm. Understanding this language ensures you comprehend regulations regarding purchases, transportation, and ownership. It’s the baseline of responsible ownership.
Historical Context: From Cannon to Carbine
Historically, “gun” was the broader term. Naval artillery pieces were guns. Field artillery were guns. The personal, handheld versions were initially called “hand gonnes,” which evolved into “handguns.” Over centuries, as portable small arms became dominant, “gun” became the common colloquialism for them. However, the military and formal institutions retained the specificity. A soldier is issued a firearm—an M4 carbine or an M17 pistol. The main tube on a tank is a gun. This historical lineage explains why purists and professionals often prefer “firearm” for modern small arms, reserving “gun” for larger, mounted, or crew-served weapons. When you browse our handgun category, you’re looking at the direct descendants of those early “hand gonnes.”
Practical Usage in the Industry and Community
On the range or in the field, you’ll hear both terms. “Nice gun” is a common compliment. However, delve deeper into technical discussions, manuals, or product descriptions from manufacturers, and “firearm” dominates. The owner’s manual for your Glock 19 says “firearm” on every page. Industry standards from SAAMI (Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute) revolve around firearms. This practical usage signals a shift from general slang to specific, safety-focused terminology. As an owner, adopting this precise language aids in clear communication, especially when seeking advice or parts. For example, asking for a “recoil spring for a Glock 19 firearm” is more precise than asking for a “part for my Glock.”
Selecting Your Firearm: Precision in Purpose
Your purpose dictates the type of firearm you need, and using the correct terminology helps clarify that purpose. Are you looking for a concealed carry firearm? That’s a specific subset of handguns, like the Sig Sauer P365 XL or the Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus. A home defense firearm could be a pistol, a shotgun like the Mossberg 590 Shockwave (an NFA “firearm,” not a “shotgun” by legal definition), or a carbine like the Springfield Saint. A long-range precision firearm is a rifle, such as the Bergara B-14 HMR in 6.5 Creedmoor. At Americans Gun, we categorize our inventory with this precision in mind because the right tool matters. Knowing you need a “centerfire rifle firearm for hunting” leads you to a better selection than simply wanting a “deer gun.”
Is a shotgun considered a firearm?
Yes, absolutely. Under federal law, a shotgun is a specific type of firearm defined as a weapon designed or redesigned, made or remade, and intended to be fired from the shoulder, using the energy of an explosive to fire through a smooth bore either a number of ball shot or a single projectile for each pull of the trigger.
Why do some people insist on using the term “firearm”?
It’s often a mark of experience and precision. In formal training, legal contexts, and technical writing, “firearm” is the correct, all-encompassing term. Using it demonstrates an understanding of the tool’s legal definition and a commitment to the responsibility that comes with ownership. It’s the professional’s choice of word.
Does it matter which term I use when buying online?
It can. Using “firearm” in searches on a serious retailer’s site may yield more specific, filtered results that align with product descriptions and categories. For example, searching our rifles category will show you firearms legally defined as rifles, whereas a search for “guns” might include accessories and non-firearm items.
At the end of the day, whether you call it a gun or a firearm, what matters most is safe handling, proper training, and selecting a quality tool that fits your needs. The terminology is a gateway to deeper knowledge and responsible practice. Ready to apply this knowledge? Browse our firearms collection at Americans Gun, where every item is listed with the precise terminology to help you make an informed choice.
Last updated: March 24, 2026
