A short rifle with a shorter barrel than a standard rifle, often used by soldiers, police, or cavalry.
From French 'carabine,' possibly from Italian 'carabina.' The word likely comes from 'carabiniere' (mounted soldier), indicating it was originally a weapon for cavalry.
Carbines were perfect for soldiers on horseback because the shorter barrel meant they were easier to aim and reload while riding—a huge advantage in cavalry warfare!
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