Long rifles are a type of firearm characterized by their elongated barrels, which enhance accuracy and range. They were commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly by American frontiersmen and hunters. The design often features a rifled barrel, which means it has grooves that spin the bullet for improved stability in flight. These rifles played a significant role in early American history, especially during the American Revolutionary War and the Westward Expansion. Notable examples include the Kentucky rifle and the Pennsylvania rifle, both known for their craftsmanship and effectiveness in hunting and combat situations.