Personal defense weapon facts for kids
A personal defense weapon (PDW) is a small, light, and easy-to-use firearm. It's designed to be very compact. The exact meaning of "PDW" can change depending on who you ask.
Many people think of a PDW as a Short-barreled rifle (SBR). These rifles can sometimes shoot in different ways. They can fire one shot at a time (semi-automatic). Or they can fire many shots quickly (fully automatic). Some governments also include handguns in their definition of PDWs. For example, the Czech Republic has discussed allowing citizens to own PDWs. This is seen as a way to help protect against serious threats.
Generally, a PDW is seen as something between a submachine gun and an assault rifle.
What Are PDWs Used For?
In the 1980s, the term PDW was first used for soldiers in small spaces. These soldiers needed a compact weapon. It had to be powerful enough to get through body armor. This was for troops inside tanks, military trucks, or those flying in aircraft. Most soldiers do not fight in direct battles. Their jobs often support the main fighting troops. Their main goal is usually to escape danger, like an ambush. They might also help the main infantry.
PDWs are also used by bodyguards. They can be hidden easily under a jacket. But they still offer good firepower. PDWs are usually best for shorter distances.
The idea of a PDW changed over time. Carrying a hidden weapon for self-defense became more common. This was especially true in places like the United States. Many countries now allow people to carry weapons for self-defense, but rules vary. Small pistols are very popular for self-defense today. Some pistols are even made to use powerful rifle bullets.
Other Ways to Stay Safe
Sometimes, a person cannot carry a firearm. Or they might choose not to. In these cases, there are other items they can carry for self-defense. Everyday things like a credit card, car keys, a pen, or even a scarf can be helpful.
Because self-defense is important, special non-lethal weapons have been made. These are designed not to look like weapons. They are meant to help a person defend themselves without causing serious harm.
Images for kids
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FN P90
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9mm Parabellum "Red 9" Mauser C96 with stock
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Pedersen device drawing
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M1 Garand and M1 Carbine
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Heckler & Koch MP7A1
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Three civilian 5.7×28mm cartridges as used in the P90. The left cartridge has a plain hollow tip, the center cartridge has a red plastic V-max tip intended to ensure bullet expansion, and the right cartridge has a blue plastic V-max tip.
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PP-2000 SMG can be used as a PDW by firing high-pressure armor-piercing ammunition
See also
In Spanish: Arma de defensa personal para niños
