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These rapid-firing firearms have a faster rate of fire than most other pistols. They are similar to [[M2]]-era [[Wikipedia:Machine_pistolMachine pistol|machine pistols]] or compact [[Wikipedia:Submachine_gunSubmachine gun|submachine guns]]. Essentially they are the pistol version of the [[Autogun]]. The weapon works by using a solid hammer to ignite a chemically combustible propellant, expelling the solid projectile through the barrel. The reactive force of the bullet's expulsion returns the breech, loads a further bullet, re-cocks the mechanism and (providing the trigger is still depressed) fires a further round until the magazine is empty or the trigger is released. Autopistols are lightweight, but lack accuracy beyond the closest of ranges due to their low velocity when compared to larger weapons. They have a high rate of fire, but only use a small calibre round. The weapon is poor at penetrating armour, but its high rate of fire makes it useful against lightly armoured opponents, putting them down in a single burst of shells.{{Fn|1}}{{Fn|2}}{{Fn|3}}{{Fn|5}}Most autopistols are believed to fall within the following characteristics:{{Fn|6}}

*Length: 9-25 9–25 cm*Barrel: 4-18 4–18 cm*Weight: 0.3-0.8  kg

*Length: 33  cm*Barrel: 17  cm*Weight: 1.6  kg*Calibre: 4.10  mm

==Related ArticlesSee also==

*{{Endn|8}}: [[Codex: Catachans (3rd Edition)]] p.  22

[[Category:Weapons (Imperial GuardAstra Militarum)]]