This fully updated encyclopedia is an authoritative reference work with two stunning visual directories. It explains the development of rifles and machine guns through the centuries, and shows the capabilities and individual specifications of modern weapons. The chronological story of arms development begins with the first crude hand cannons and black powder flintlocks used in the Revolutionary, Napoleonic and American Civil wars. The encyclopedia covers the progress of firearm design from the Industrial Age to the modern day, with details of the individual developments of rifles and machine guns, and their use in major conflicts. Readers are introduced to some of the designers and manufacturers involved in weapons design, as well as the materials, mechanics and technology involved in arms production. The directories present a photographic guide to the world's rifles and machine guns. Grouped according to country of origin, each gun's features are listed, with the military and technological context in which the weapon was developed. Information boxes accompany each entry and include details such as calibre, magazine capacity, barrel length and unloaded weight. A list of manufacturers, a glossary and an index complete this easy-to-use encyclopedia. Written by leading experts in the field and superbly illustrated, the book is essential reading for all enthusiasts interested in gun manufacture and weapons of war. An unparalleled guide to the world's most important rifles and machine guns, from the medieval period to the present day. Includes superb directories of arms from different regions of the world, organized according to country of manufacture. Shows the key features of each weapon, including calibre, magazine capacity, barrel length and unloaded weight. With 600 photographs and artworks, and specification boxes for detailed study. The most important and famous rifles and machine guns are listed, including the Mauser, Lee-Enfield and the SAR 240. Written by three outstanding arms experts.