Here is a guide if you are stuck on which weapons to use and combine. Please remember that your weapon will carry every aspect of the weapon types its made of so choose wisely!
Bladed Weapons
Battle Axe: A battle axe is an axe specifically designed for use in combat. Battle axes were specialized versions of utility axes. Many were suitable for use in one hand, while others were larger and were wielded two-handed. Axes designed for warfare ranged in weight from just over 0.5 kg to 3 kg (1 to 6 pounds), and in length from just over 30 cm to upwards of 1.5 m (1 to 5 feet). It used to be that fighters would use axes more often than swords, being for the fact that an axe is not only cheaper than a sword, but were more commonplace. An Axe wielder is able to use them as throwing weapons, use two at once, or hold a large axe and wield them with two hands.
Dagger: A dagger is a double-edged blade used for hitting, stabbing or thrusting. They often fulfill the role of a secondary defense weapon in close combat. In most cases, a tang extends into the handle along the centreline of the blade. Daggers may be differentiated from knives on the basis that daggers are intended primarily for stabbing whereas knives are usually single-edged and intended mostly for cutting. However, many knives and daggers are capable of either stabbing or cutting. This style is based mostly around reacting to your opponent’s actions, using mostly counter-attacks to confuse and wear down your opponent. Can be dualwielded.
Spear: A spear is a pole weapon consisting of a shaft, usually of wood, with a pointed head. The head may be simply the sharpened end of the shaft itself, as is the case with fire hardened spears, or it may be made of a more durable material fastened to the shaft, such as flint, obsidian, iron, steel or bronze. The most common design for hunting or combat spears since ancient times has incorporated a metal spearhead shaped like a triangle, lozenge, or leaf. The heads of fishing spears usually feature barbs or serrated edges.
Greatsword: The largest sword class, the Greatsword towers above the rest. The average greatsword is about 6 feet and ussually needs to be wielded with two hands due to its sheer size and weight. Only those with a strength ranking of 8 and above can wield these blades with one hand without loosing speed or cutting power. Those who use one hand and have a strength rating of 7 and below loose half the speed in their strikes and half the force.
Shuriken: Normally just a support weapon of the regular person used with the katana to aid when the opponent gets too far for slashing this has also been known to be the Ninja's hidden throwing weapon.
Jian: The Jian is a double-edged straight sword used during the last 2,500 years in China. Historical one-handed versions that have blades varying from 45 to 80 centimeters (17.7 to 31.5 inches) in length. The weight of an average Jian would be approximately 700 to 900 grams (1.5 to 2 pounds). In Chinese folklore, it is known as "The Gentleman of Weapons". Its blade is sharp and excellent for stabbing but the tip can also be used to slash at the enemies. Its very light and easy to use beware of its lightning quick attacks.
Katana: A curved, slender, single edged blade, circular or squared guard, and long grip to accommodate two hands. It has historically been associated with the samurai of feudal Japan, and has become renowned for its sharpness and cutting ability. The blade is approximately 73 centimeters, it is a blade that is not used for strength, but fluidity of motion and speed. The katana facilitated this by being worn thrust through a belt with the edge of the blade facing up, which allowed the samurai to draw and cut their enemy in a single motion.
If mishandled in its storage or maintenance, the katana may become irreparably damaged. The blade should be stored in its sheath, curve down and edge facing upward to maintain the edge. It is extremely important that the blade remain well-oiled, powdered and polished, as the natural moisture residue from the hands of the user will rapidly cause the blade to rust if not cleaned off. The traditional oil used is choji oil [99% mineral oil and 1% clove oil for fragrance]. Similarly, when stored for longer periods, it is important that the katana be inspected frequently and aired out if necessary in order to prevent rust or mold from forming.
Kodachi: A kodachi (小太刀 or こだち?), literally translating into "small or short tachi (sword)", is a Japanese sword that is too short to be considered a long sword but too long to be a dagger. Since this sword was only about 59 cm in length, it did not exceed the blade length limits of non-samurai during the Edo period and could be worn by merchants. Eventually, it became the main weapon of Assassins and Ninjas, since the blade was so easy to not only carry but to conceal. The perfect blade for stealth kills, because the blade is shorter than other blades, the movement of this blade is a bit faster than someone using say a katana or any other long blade.
Longsword: Longswords have long cruciform hilts with grips over 10 to 15 cm length (providing room for two hands). Straight double-edged blades are often over 1 m to 1.2 m (40" to 48") length, and weigh typically between 1.2 and 2.4 kg (2½ to 5 lb), with light specimens just below 1 kg (2.2 lb), and heavy specimens just above 2 kg (4½ lb). The longsword is commonly held in combat with both hands, though some may be used single-handed. Longswords are used for hewing, slicing, and stabbing. The specific offensive purpose of an individual longsword is derived from its physical shape. All parts of the sword are used for offensive purposes, including the pommel and crossguard. These are some moves not classified in any of the styles
Rapier: The word "rapier" generally refers to a relatively long-bladed sword characterized by a complex hilt which is constructed to provide protection for the hand wielding it. While the blade might be broad enough to cut to some degree the long thin blade lends itself to thrusting. The blade might be sharpened along its entire length, sharpened only from the center to the tip, or completely without a cutting edge as called “estoc”. A typical example would weigh 1 kilogram (2.2 lb) and have a relatively long and slender blade of 2.5 centimetres (0.98 in) or less in width, 1 meter (39 in) or more in length and ending in a sharply pointed tip.
Scythe: Originating as a farming tool, the Scythe became a popular weapon during peasant uprising in early history. As a pole weapon, the war scythe is characterised by long range and powerful force (due to leverage): there are documented examples where a scythe has cut through a metal helmet. They could be used, depending on construction and tactics, to make slashing or stabbing attacks, and due to their uncommon looks and significant power, could have a psychological impact on an unprepared enemy.
Snakesword: The snake sword is one of the most interesting and dynamic weapons: It is both whip and sword in one controlled by the energy of the user. A blade that doesn't focus on strength but flexibility of the user's mind.
Spear: A spear is a pole weapon consisting of a shaft, usually of wood, with a pointed head. The head may be simply the sharpened end of the shaft itself, as is the case with bamboo spears, or it may be made of a more durable material fastened to the shaft, such as flint, obsidian, iron, steel or bronze. The most common design for hunting or combat spears since ancient times has incorporated a metal spearhead shaped like a barbed triangle, lozenge or leaf. The heads of fishing spears usually feature barbs or serrated edges. Spears can be divided into two broad categories: those designed for thrusting and those designed for throwing. Spears used primarily for thrusting may be used with either one or two hands and tend to have heavier and sturdier designs than those intended exclusively for throwing. Those designed for throwing, often referred to as javelins, tend to be lighter and have a more streamlined head, and they may be thrown either by hand or with the assistance of a spear thrower such as the atlatl or woomera. From the atlatl dart, the arrow for use with bows eventually developed.
Throwing Knives: The origin of knife-throwing stems from throwing wood (picture a boomerang), which was used as a weapon in battle and as a tool for hunting. In North Africa, evidence of throwing wood dates back to approximately 6000 B.C. In Egypt, throwing wood was discovered in the grave of Tut-anch-Amun (approximately 1340 B.C.). After the introduction of iron at about 600 B.C., throwing wood gradually developed into the throwing knife.
Arakh: An arakh is a curved blade on a long handle, similar to a hand-held scythe. The tip of the arrakh doubles back and forms a vicious hook. The fighting style relies a lot on getting within the guard of an opponent and lopping off various limbs. An arakh will not do good against longer blades in terms of straight up clashing, as it is not made for defense. Students of this style often find staying on the offense is best, as the blade does not provide a very good defense. Regardless, the arrakh is able to cause serious damage if it can be wielded properly. There are very few times an arakh is used in a thrust. Most of the attacks are slashes or grabs. It is not uncommon to see students use more than one arakh when fighting.
Knuckled Knife: Knuckled Knife fighting is not often referred to as a weapon style, mostly because it involves many attacks that use the full body of the user. In essence, it is a boxing style mixed in with the wielding of bladed knuckle. Most attacks are combinations of punches and slices due to the different part of the bladed knuckle. There is the knuckle brace part which adds blunt damage and the actual blade, which can be used for stabs and thrusts. It is a versatile fighting style than can even be enhanced by energy.
Chain-Sickle: The Kyoketsu Shoge is a method of fighting based around a blade attached to a chain with a weight at the end. There are a numerous amount of variations to what the weapon is. It can range from a kusarigama, a sickle, a knife, to a larger sword as depicted above. This style can be used from a close range, where the blade is held in the hand, or mid range, where the blade is tossed out in conjunction with the weight and chain. Multiple enemies can be fought at once from multiple angles as well. It is versatile and very deadly when used in the right hands.
Blunt Weapons
Ball and Chain: This is a heavy hitting style. With this style, you either dodge, or get sent flying by the sheer force and weight of this tremendous weapon.
Bo Staff: Before bladed weapons came into play, staffs were the ultimate form of weaponry. You can easily attack and defend at the same time, fight off multiple enemies, and duel in close to mid-range. Wielding a staff properly takes time though, while utilizing it takes even longer. Staff masters have been known to also power their moves with energy, causing for an even deadlier skill. Can be used with Bo, Spear, long metal pipes, and other staff-like weapons.
Shield: A shield is a type of personal armor, meant to intercept attacks, either by stopping projectiles such as arrows or redirecting a blow from a sword, mace or battle axe to the side of the shield-bearer.
Melee Weapons
Claw Gauntlet: The Claw Gauntlet was originally created for a master thief who wanted to be able to climb and slide down walls, attack, and block, with one weapon. So the claw gauntlet was made. The claws of the gauntlet are able to rip through flesh, block oncoming attacks, empower fists and help with climbing walls.
Neko-Te: A style that requires constant hours of training, practice, and determination to learn and use. This is one of the main weapons of the Kunoichis/Ninjas due to their easy of use and concealing ability. They were mainly used to take out the vital parts, such as the eyes, groin, and the soft spot in the neck. The Neko-te is a name given to several contraptions fitted in or over the hand, with sharp blades or pins sticking out. Some of these original neko-te that were shaped like metal gloves had pins standing up from the metal plate covering the back of the hand, designed to trap other weapons and leave minor damage when required.
Bows
Bow: A bow is a weapon that projects arrows powered by its elasticity. Essentially, it is a form of spring. As the bow is drawn, energy is stored in the limbs of the bow and transformed into rapid motion when the string is released, with the string transferring this force to the arrow. A regular person can fire of two shots within a post while a ranger may fire off four.
Crossbow: A crossbow is a weapon consisting of a bow mounted on a stock that shoots projectiles, often called bolts or quarrels. The medieval crossbow was called by many names, most of which derived from the word ballista, a torsion engine resembling a crossbow in appearance. With a crossbow, archers could release a draw force far in excess of what they could have handled with a bow. Moreover, crossbows could be kept cocked and ready to shoot for some time with little effort, allowing crossbowmen to aim better. The disadvantage is the greater weight and clumsiness compared to a bow, as well as the slower rate of fire and the lower efficiency of the acceleration system, but there would be reduced elastic hysteresis, making the crossbow a more accurate weapon. Crossbows have a much smaller draw length than bows. This means that for the same energy to be imparted to the arrow (or bolt) the crossbow has to have a much higher draw weight. A direct comparison between a fast hand-drawn replica crossbow and a longbow show a 6:10 rate of fire.
Guns
HandGun: A handgun is a firearm designed to be handheld, in either one or both hands. This characteristic differentiates handguns as a general class of firearms from long guns such as rifles and shotguns (which usually can be braced against the shoulder).
Major handgun subtypes are the double action and pistol (including single-shot pistols, semi-automatic pistols, and machine pistols); other subtypes include derringers and pepperboxes. The words "pistol" and "handgun" have overlapping variations in meaning. Although handgun use often includes bracing with a second hand, the essential distinguishing characteristic of a handgun is its facility for one-handed operation.
MachineGun: A machine gun is a fully automatic mounted or portable firearm, designed to fire bullets in quick succession from an ammunition belt or magazine, typically at a rate of 300 to 1800 rounds per minute. Fully automatic weapons are generally categorized as submachine guns, assault rifles, battle rifles, automatic shotguns, machine guns, or autocannons.
As a class of military firearms, true machine guns are fully automatic weapons designed to be used as support weapons and generally used when attached to a mount or fired from the ground on a bipod or tripod. Light machine guns are small enough to be fired hand-held, but are more effective when fired from a prone position. The difference between machine guns and other categories of weapons is based on caliber, with autocannons using calibers larger than 20 mm,[1] and whether the gun fires conventional bullets, shotgun cartridges, or explosive rounds. Fully automatic guns firing shotgun cartridges are usually called automatic shotguns, and those firing large-caliber explosive rounds are generally considered either autocannons or automatic grenade launchers ("grenade machine guns"). Submachine guns are hand-held automatic weapons for personal defense or short-range combat firing pistol-caliber rounds. In contrast to submachine guns and autocannons, machine guns (like rifles) tend to have a very high ratio of barrel length to caliber (a long barrel for a small caliber); indeed, a true machine gun is essentially a fully automatic rifle, and often the primary criterion for a machine gun as opposed to a battle rifle is the presence of a quick-change barrel, heavyweight barrel, or other cooling system. Battle rifles and assault rifles may be capable of fully automatic fire, but are not designed for sustained fire.
Sniper Rifle: In military and law enforcement terminology, a special application sniper rifle is a crew service, man-portable, high precision, shoulder-fired rifle used to ensure more accurate placement of bullets at longer ranges than other small arms. It is a common misconception that any scoped rifle is a sniper rifle, and while certain long guns are more suited for the application than others, it is the act of using a firearm weapon strategically as a sniper qualified-specialist that designates it as such.
A typical sniper rifle is built for optimal levels of accuracy, fitted with a telescopic sight and chambered for a military centerfire cartridge. The term is often used in the media to describe any type of accurized firearm fitted with a telescopic sight that is employed against human targets, although "sniping rifle" or "sniper's rifle" is the technically correct grammatical term for such a rifle.
The military role of a sniper (a term derived from the snipe, a bird which was difficult to hunt and shoot) dates back to the turn of the 18th century, but the true sniper rifle is a much more recent development. Advances in technology, specifically that of telescopic sights and more accurate manufacturing, allowed armies to equip specially trained soldiers with rifles that enable them to deliver precise shots over greater distances than regular infantry weapons. The sniper rifle itself could be based on a standard rifle: it's hard to define a sniper rifle by the fire modes as some latest designed sniper rifles are semi-automatic fire, for example the M110; however, when fitted with a telescopic sight, it becomes a sniper rifle.
Bladed Weapons
Battle Axe: A battle axe is an axe specifically designed for use in combat. Battle axes were specialized versions of utility axes. Many were suitable for use in one hand, while others were larger and were wielded two-handed. Axes designed for warfare ranged in weight from just over 0.5 kg to 3 kg (1 to 6 pounds), and in length from just over 30 cm to upwards of 1.5 m (1 to 5 feet). It used to be that fighters would use axes more often than swords, being for the fact that an axe is not only cheaper than a sword, but were more commonplace. An Axe wielder is able to use them as throwing weapons, use two at once, or hold a large axe and wield them with two hands.
Dagger: A dagger is a double-edged blade used for hitting, stabbing or thrusting. They often fulfill the role of a secondary defense weapon in close combat. In most cases, a tang extends into the handle along the centreline of the blade. Daggers may be differentiated from knives on the basis that daggers are intended primarily for stabbing whereas knives are usually single-edged and intended mostly for cutting. However, many knives and daggers are capable of either stabbing or cutting. This style is based mostly around reacting to your opponent’s actions, using mostly counter-attacks to confuse and wear down your opponent. Can be dualwielded.
Spear: A spear is a pole weapon consisting of a shaft, usually of wood, with a pointed head. The head may be simply the sharpened end of the shaft itself, as is the case with fire hardened spears, or it may be made of a more durable material fastened to the shaft, such as flint, obsidian, iron, steel or bronze. The most common design for hunting or combat spears since ancient times has incorporated a metal spearhead shaped like a triangle, lozenge, or leaf. The heads of fishing spears usually feature barbs or serrated edges.
Greatsword: The largest sword class, the Greatsword towers above the rest. The average greatsword is about 6 feet and ussually needs to be wielded with two hands due to its sheer size and weight. Only those with a strength ranking of 8 and above can wield these blades with one hand without loosing speed or cutting power. Those who use one hand and have a strength rating of 7 and below loose half the speed in their strikes and half the force.
Shuriken: Normally just a support weapon of the regular person used with the katana to aid when the opponent gets too far for slashing this has also been known to be the Ninja's hidden throwing weapon.
Jian: The Jian is a double-edged straight sword used during the last 2,500 years in China. Historical one-handed versions that have blades varying from 45 to 80 centimeters (17.7 to 31.5 inches) in length. The weight of an average Jian would be approximately 700 to 900 grams (1.5 to 2 pounds). In Chinese folklore, it is known as "The Gentleman of Weapons". Its blade is sharp and excellent for stabbing but the tip can also be used to slash at the enemies. Its very light and easy to use beware of its lightning quick attacks.
Katana: A curved, slender, single edged blade, circular or squared guard, and long grip to accommodate two hands. It has historically been associated with the samurai of feudal Japan, and has become renowned for its sharpness and cutting ability. The blade is approximately 73 centimeters, it is a blade that is not used for strength, but fluidity of motion and speed. The katana facilitated this by being worn thrust through a belt with the edge of the blade facing up, which allowed the samurai to draw and cut their enemy in a single motion.
If mishandled in its storage or maintenance, the katana may become irreparably damaged. The blade should be stored in its sheath, curve down and edge facing upward to maintain the edge. It is extremely important that the blade remain well-oiled, powdered and polished, as the natural moisture residue from the hands of the user will rapidly cause the blade to rust if not cleaned off. The traditional oil used is choji oil [99% mineral oil and 1% clove oil for fragrance]. Similarly, when stored for longer periods, it is important that the katana be inspected frequently and aired out if necessary in order to prevent rust or mold from forming.
Kodachi: A kodachi (小太刀 or こだち?), literally translating into "small or short tachi (sword)", is a Japanese sword that is too short to be considered a long sword but too long to be a dagger. Since this sword was only about 59 cm in length, it did not exceed the blade length limits of non-samurai during the Edo period and could be worn by merchants. Eventually, it became the main weapon of Assassins and Ninjas, since the blade was so easy to not only carry but to conceal. The perfect blade for stealth kills, because the blade is shorter than other blades, the movement of this blade is a bit faster than someone using say a katana or any other long blade.
Longsword: Longswords have long cruciform hilts with grips over 10 to 15 cm length (providing room for two hands). Straight double-edged blades are often over 1 m to 1.2 m (40" to 48") length, and weigh typically between 1.2 and 2.4 kg (2½ to 5 lb), with light specimens just below 1 kg (2.2 lb), and heavy specimens just above 2 kg (4½ lb). The longsword is commonly held in combat with both hands, though some may be used single-handed. Longswords are used for hewing, slicing, and stabbing. The specific offensive purpose of an individual longsword is derived from its physical shape. All parts of the sword are used for offensive purposes, including the pommel and crossguard. These are some moves not classified in any of the styles
Rapier: The word "rapier" generally refers to a relatively long-bladed sword characterized by a complex hilt which is constructed to provide protection for the hand wielding it. While the blade might be broad enough to cut to some degree the long thin blade lends itself to thrusting. The blade might be sharpened along its entire length, sharpened only from the center to the tip, or completely without a cutting edge as called “estoc”. A typical example would weigh 1 kilogram (2.2 lb) and have a relatively long and slender blade of 2.5 centimetres (0.98 in) or less in width, 1 meter (39 in) or more in length and ending in a sharply pointed tip.
Scythe: Originating as a farming tool, the Scythe became a popular weapon during peasant uprising in early history. As a pole weapon, the war scythe is characterised by long range and powerful force (due to leverage): there are documented examples where a scythe has cut through a metal helmet. They could be used, depending on construction and tactics, to make slashing or stabbing attacks, and due to their uncommon looks and significant power, could have a psychological impact on an unprepared enemy.
Snakesword: The snake sword is one of the most interesting and dynamic weapons: It is both whip and sword in one controlled by the energy of the user. A blade that doesn't focus on strength but flexibility of the user's mind.
Spear: A spear is a pole weapon consisting of a shaft, usually of wood, with a pointed head. The head may be simply the sharpened end of the shaft itself, as is the case with bamboo spears, or it may be made of a more durable material fastened to the shaft, such as flint, obsidian, iron, steel or bronze. The most common design for hunting or combat spears since ancient times has incorporated a metal spearhead shaped like a barbed triangle, lozenge or leaf. The heads of fishing spears usually feature barbs or serrated edges. Spears can be divided into two broad categories: those designed for thrusting and those designed for throwing. Spears used primarily for thrusting may be used with either one or two hands and tend to have heavier and sturdier designs than those intended exclusively for throwing. Those designed for throwing, often referred to as javelins, tend to be lighter and have a more streamlined head, and they may be thrown either by hand or with the assistance of a spear thrower such as the atlatl or woomera. From the atlatl dart, the arrow for use with bows eventually developed.
Throwing Knives: The origin of knife-throwing stems from throwing wood (picture a boomerang), which was used as a weapon in battle and as a tool for hunting. In North Africa, evidence of throwing wood dates back to approximately 6000 B.C. In Egypt, throwing wood was discovered in the grave of Tut-anch-Amun (approximately 1340 B.C.). After the introduction of iron at about 600 B.C., throwing wood gradually developed into the throwing knife.
Arakh: An arakh is a curved blade on a long handle, similar to a hand-held scythe. The tip of the arrakh doubles back and forms a vicious hook. The fighting style relies a lot on getting within the guard of an opponent and lopping off various limbs. An arakh will not do good against longer blades in terms of straight up clashing, as it is not made for defense. Students of this style often find staying on the offense is best, as the blade does not provide a very good defense. Regardless, the arrakh is able to cause serious damage if it can be wielded properly. There are very few times an arakh is used in a thrust. Most of the attacks are slashes or grabs. It is not uncommon to see students use more than one arakh when fighting.
Knuckled Knife: Knuckled Knife fighting is not often referred to as a weapon style, mostly because it involves many attacks that use the full body of the user. In essence, it is a boxing style mixed in with the wielding of bladed knuckle. Most attacks are combinations of punches and slices due to the different part of the bladed knuckle. There is the knuckle brace part which adds blunt damage and the actual blade, which can be used for stabs and thrusts. It is a versatile fighting style than can even be enhanced by energy.
Chain-Sickle: The Kyoketsu Shoge is a method of fighting based around a blade attached to a chain with a weight at the end. There are a numerous amount of variations to what the weapon is. It can range from a kusarigama, a sickle, a knife, to a larger sword as depicted above. This style can be used from a close range, where the blade is held in the hand, or mid range, where the blade is tossed out in conjunction with the weight and chain. Multiple enemies can be fought at once from multiple angles as well. It is versatile and very deadly when used in the right hands.
Blunt Weapons
Ball and Chain: This is a heavy hitting style. With this style, you either dodge, or get sent flying by the sheer force and weight of this tremendous weapon.
Bo Staff: Before bladed weapons came into play, staffs were the ultimate form of weaponry. You can easily attack and defend at the same time, fight off multiple enemies, and duel in close to mid-range. Wielding a staff properly takes time though, while utilizing it takes even longer. Staff masters have been known to also power their moves with energy, causing for an even deadlier skill. Can be used with Bo, Spear, long metal pipes, and other staff-like weapons.
Shield: A shield is a type of personal armor, meant to intercept attacks, either by stopping projectiles such as arrows or redirecting a blow from a sword, mace or battle axe to the side of the shield-bearer.
Melee Weapons
Claw Gauntlet: The Claw Gauntlet was originally created for a master thief who wanted to be able to climb and slide down walls, attack, and block, with one weapon. So the claw gauntlet was made. The claws of the gauntlet are able to rip through flesh, block oncoming attacks, empower fists and help with climbing walls.
Neko-Te: A style that requires constant hours of training, practice, and determination to learn and use. This is one of the main weapons of the Kunoichis/Ninjas due to their easy of use and concealing ability. They were mainly used to take out the vital parts, such as the eyes, groin, and the soft spot in the neck. The Neko-te is a name given to several contraptions fitted in or over the hand, with sharp blades or pins sticking out. Some of these original neko-te that were shaped like metal gloves had pins standing up from the metal plate covering the back of the hand, designed to trap other weapons and leave minor damage when required.
Bows
Bow: A bow is a weapon that projects arrows powered by its elasticity. Essentially, it is a form of spring. As the bow is drawn, energy is stored in the limbs of the bow and transformed into rapid motion when the string is released, with the string transferring this force to the arrow. A regular person can fire of two shots within a post while a ranger may fire off four.
Crossbow: A crossbow is a weapon consisting of a bow mounted on a stock that shoots projectiles, often called bolts or quarrels. The medieval crossbow was called by many names, most of which derived from the word ballista, a torsion engine resembling a crossbow in appearance. With a crossbow, archers could release a draw force far in excess of what they could have handled with a bow. Moreover, crossbows could be kept cocked and ready to shoot for some time with little effort, allowing crossbowmen to aim better. The disadvantage is the greater weight and clumsiness compared to a bow, as well as the slower rate of fire and the lower efficiency of the acceleration system, but there would be reduced elastic hysteresis, making the crossbow a more accurate weapon. Crossbows have a much smaller draw length than bows. This means that for the same energy to be imparted to the arrow (or bolt) the crossbow has to have a much higher draw weight. A direct comparison between a fast hand-drawn replica crossbow and a longbow show a 6:10 rate of fire.
Guns
HandGun: A handgun is a firearm designed to be handheld, in either one or both hands. This characteristic differentiates handguns as a general class of firearms from long guns such as rifles and shotguns (which usually can be braced against the shoulder).
Major handgun subtypes are the double action and pistol (including single-shot pistols, semi-automatic pistols, and machine pistols); other subtypes include derringers and pepperboxes. The words "pistol" and "handgun" have overlapping variations in meaning. Although handgun use often includes bracing with a second hand, the essential distinguishing characteristic of a handgun is its facility for one-handed operation.
MachineGun: A machine gun is a fully automatic mounted or portable firearm, designed to fire bullets in quick succession from an ammunition belt or magazine, typically at a rate of 300 to 1800 rounds per minute. Fully automatic weapons are generally categorized as submachine guns, assault rifles, battle rifles, automatic shotguns, machine guns, or autocannons.
As a class of military firearms, true machine guns are fully automatic weapons designed to be used as support weapons and generally used when attached to a mount or fired from the ground on a bipod or tripod. Light machine guns are small enough to be fired hand-held, but are more effective when fired from a prone position. The difference between machine guns and other categories of weapons is based on caliber, with autocannons using calibers larger than 20 mm,[1] and whether the gun fires conventional bullets, shotgun cartridges, or explosive rounds. Fully automatic guns firing shotgun cartridges are usually called automatic shotguns, and those firing large-caliber explosive rounds are generally considered either autocannons or automatic grenade launchers ("grenade machine guns"). Submachine guns are hand-held automatic weapons for personal defense or short-range combat firing pistol-caliber rounds. In contrast to submachine guns and autocannons, machine guns (like rifles) tend to have a very high ratio of barrel length to caliber (a long barrel for a small caliber); indeed, a true machine gun is essentially a fully automatic rifle, and often the primary criterion for a machine gun as opposed to a battle rifle is the presence of a quick-change barrel, heavyweight barrel, or other cooling system. Battle rifles and assault rifles may be capable of fully automatic fire, but are not designed for sustained fire.
Sniper Rifle: In military and law enforcement terminology, a special application sniper rifle is a crew service, man-portable, high precision, shoulder-fired rifle used to ensure more accurate placement of bullets at longer ranges than other small arms. It is a common misconception that any scoped rifle is a sniper rifle, and while certain long guns are more suited for the application than others, it is the act of using a firearm weapon strategically as a sniper qualified-specialist that designates it as such.
A typical sniper rifle is built for optimal levels of accuracy, fitted with a telescopic sight and chambered for a military centerfire cartridge. The term is often used in the media to describe any type of accurized firearm fitted with a telescopic sight that is employed against human targets, although "sniping rifle" or "sniper's rifle" is the technically correct grammatical term for such a rifle.
The military role of a sniper (a term derived from the snipe, a bird which was difficult to hunt and shoot) dates back to the turn of the 18th century, but the true sniper rifle is a much more recent development. Advances in technology, specifically that of telescopic sights and more accurate manufacturing, allowed armies to equip specially trained soldiers with rifles that enable them to deliver precise shots over greater distances than regular infantry weapons. The sniper rifle itself could be based on a standard rifle: it's hard to define a sniper rifle by the fire modes as some latest designed sniper rifles are semi-automatic fire, for example the M110; however, when fitted with a telescopic sight, it becomes a sniper rifle.
