long gun

American  

[lawng guhn, long] / ˈlɔŋ ˈgʌn, ˈlɒŋ /

noun

1. a handheld firearm with a long barrel, as a rifle, designed to be fired when braced against the shoulder.

   Grab your long guns, and let’s get in some target practice.

2. Ordnance. a mounted firearm, as a cannon, with a long barrel, especially as compared to a shorter-barreled howitzer.

   Near the foot of the watchtower was planted a long gun charged with the finest British powder.

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Etymology

Origin of long gun

First recorded in 1530–40

Example Sentences

A long gun and shell casings were found on the scene, FBI Director Kash Patel said, adding that the agency was carrying out witness interviews as part of its probe.

From Barron's • Apr. 26, 2026

Authorities found two firearms - a long gun and a modified handgun - on the scene.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

Leading up to that scene, Ellie strives to establish her own hero identity by training in hand-to-hand combat with men twice her size and sharpening her sniping skills with a long gun.

From Salon • Apr. 21, 2025

I was an excellent shot with my long gun.

From Slate • Jul. 17, 2024

She rotated the only visible handle, and the nose of the long gun tilted into place.

From "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo