A handgun is a type of firearm that can be held and fired with one hand. It typically has a short barrel, is lightweight, and designed to be easily portable for self-defense or personal protection purposes. Handguns come in various calibers and sizes, ranging from small pocket pistols to larger magnum revolvers and semi-automatic pistols. They are popular among civilians, law enforcement officers, and military personnel alike due to their ease of use and concealability.