A pistol is a type of handgun designed to be fired with one hand. It typically has a short barrel and is used for self-defense, sport shooting, or law enforcement. Pistols can be semi-automatic, meaning they automatically reload after each shot, or revolvers, which have a rotating cylinder that holds multiple bullets. Pistols come in various calibers, which refer to the size of the bullet they fire. Popular models include the Glock and Smith & Wesson. While they are effective tools, responsible ownership and proper training are essential for safety and effective use.