What distinguishes a handgun from other firearms?

A handgun is distinguished from other firearms primarily by its barrel length, which is generally shorter than that of rifles or shotguns. Specifically, handguns are designed to have a barrel length of less than 16 inches, making them compact and easy to handle for personal defense or concealed carry. This relatively short barrel length contributes to their characteristics, such as being more maneuverable in tight spaces.

Furthermore, while there are handguns that may be semi-automatic or have magazines, these features are not exclusive to handguns. Other types of firearms can also incorporate these attributes. The design intention behind handguns is primarily about their size and form factor, allowing them to be fired with one hand, making the barrel length the key distinguishing factor.