riot gun

American  

noun

1. a gun, especially a shotgun with a short barrel, for quelling riots rather than inflicting serious injury.

---

Etymology

Origin of riot gun

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

“Fifteen minutes of spectacular fighting scattered the protest” in all directions as “firemen turned hoses onto the crowd and a police truck equipped with tear gas, submachine guns and riot guns” arrived, the Times continued.

From Washington Post

The judge had issued an order prohibiting police from using less-lethal riot guns and launchers and using pepper spray on people engaged in passive resistance.

From Washington Times

Customs and Border Protection has authorized its personnel to use less-lethal force, such as riot guns firing pepper spray balls, against protesters who fire lasers — an increasingly prominent tactic for rioters in Portland.

From Washington Times

“They were aiming for a body part that is prohibited when using those type of riot guns. You’re not meant to aim at the groin or the head ever,” Marinho said in a statement.

From The Guardian

Then police, armed with riot gun, tear gas and clubs, formed into two large battalions and cleared the street in front of the gates.

From Los Angeles Times