What type of weapon is the 9-mm M9?

The 9-mm M9 is classified as a semi-automatic handgun. This designation is significant because it describes how the weapon operates and its intended use. A semi-automatic handgun is designed to fire one round each time the trigger is pulled, with the spent casing automatically ejected and a new round chambered from the magazine.

The M9, in particular, is a well-known service pistol used by the U.S. military and is designed for versatility, reliability, and ease of handling in various conditions. Its caliber, 9mm, is a standard size for many handguns, allowing for effective performance in both military and law enforcement applications.

Understanding the characteristics of a semi-automatic handgun is essential for recognizing how it compares to other types of firearms, such as revolvers, which use a rotating cylinder; shotguns, typically designed for firing multiple pellets or slugs; and assault rifles, which are automatic or selective-fire rifles designed for rapid-fire capability. Each of these weapon types serves different purposes and operates under different mechanisms and specifications.