Automatic Rifle
Rifle
Image from Anders Sandberg
Hand-held kinetic weapon which may be dumb or smart (rarely sentient), capable of firing one or a variety of projectiles; effective range generally in the vicinity of several hundred meters. The term 'rifle' refers to the helical lining of the barrel, which imparts a spin to projectiles leaving the weapon, and improves their accuracy.

Most have sights with optical magnification and light amplification, often sensitive to wavelengths outside the baseline human range of vision. Modern rifles are often linked via DNI to the user's optic system.

Automatic rifles with self-aiming software are common; these weapons are capable of adjusting their orientation minutely in order to attain their target, and generally will not fire unless a hit is very likely.

Rate of fire can usually be adjusted between single, short-burst (usually 3), and continuous. In an atmosphere, especially a murky atmosphere, usually more effective than a laser weapon.

Ammunition used in rifles includes armour-piercing shells, self-steering and partially self-propelled projectiles, and explosive shells.
 
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Appears in Topics
Drytech/HylotechMiddle Tech / MidtechPersonal Weapons
 
Development Notes
Text by M. Alan Kazlev and Steve Bowers

Initially published on 03 November 2001.