Which small arms weapon is primarily designed for hand-to-hand combat?

A knife is primarily designed for hand-to-hand combat due to its size, weight, and intended use. It allows for quick and agile movements, making it effective in close-quarters situations where distance is minimal. The design of a knife facilitates various techniques, such as slashing and stabbing, which are especially useful in direct confrontations.

In combat scenarios, the knife can be utilized efficiently when firearms are impractical due to proximity or other factors. Its effectiveness in stealth operations and as a last resort also underscores its role in hand-to-hand combat situations. Other options, such as shotguns, pistols, and rifles, are primarily designed for ranged engagements and are not optimized for close combat scenarios.