A carbine (/ˈkɑrbiːn/ or /ˈkɑrbaɪn/), from French carabine, is a long arm firearm but with a shorter barrel than a rifle or musket. Many carbines are shortened versions of full length rifles, shooting the same ammunition, while others fire lower-powered ammunition, including those designed for pistols.The smaller size and lighter weight of carbines makes them easier to handle.