Assault rifle
An assault rifle is a rifle that is capable of single-shot, fully automatic, or sometimes burst fire (pre-selected number of shots fired).
Assault rifles are designed for intermediate-calibre cartridges such as the 5.56 x 45mm or 7.62 x 39mm, and for ranges rarely exceeding 400 metres. It is a military-style small arm, predominantly used as an infantry weapon.Adapted from the glossary in S. Parker and M. Wilson, A Diplomat’s Guide to the UN Small Arms Process, Small Arms Survey, Geneva, 2012, p. 78.
Last updated on: 08 February 2014