Gunreach

/ˈɡʌnriːtʃ/ noun

Definition

The maximum distance or range at which a gun or cannon can effectively fire; the extent of a weapon's firing capability.

Etymology

From 'gun' plus 'reach,' combining the noun for firearm with a word meaning distance or extent. This is a nautical and military term that became established as firearms technology developed.

Kelly Says

Naval battles were often determined by 'gunreach'—in the Age of Sail, ships would try to position themselves just beyond an enemy's gunreach while staying within their own firing range, making the effective range of cannons a literal matter of life and death.

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