?A visual historical reference to over 500 military, law enforcement and antique firearms from around the world. ?Includes a fascinating history of small arms from the 14th century to the present day, comprehensive directories of small arms, full technical specifications and is illustrated with more than 550 photographs and artworks. ?The world's most important small guns from the medieval hand cannon and the matchlock handgun to the Luger P08 and today's FN P90. ?Features famous small arms including the Colt .45, the Browning High-Power M1935, the Lanchester and the MP38 submachine gun. ?Specially commissioned color photographs and artworks, including cutaway diagrams to show internal components and gun operation. ?Expertly written by leading professionals in their field.