Traditional military rifles generally fire full-sized ammunition, such as 7.62 × 51 mm (NATO standard) and 7.62 × 54R mm (Warsaw Pact standard), and were in common military use until the widespread introduction of military assault rifles. The latter are chambered for intermediate calibre ammunition, and are less cumbersome and more suited to closer-range combat.

While the weapons of state armed forces are not the largest major category of small arms—worldwide there are around three civilian-owned firearms for each one held by militaries—they are a serious factor in conflict and violence, and the focus of much international diplomacy. Military-owned small arms also constitute the world’s largest centrally controlled stockpiles. They can be involved in massive transfers, and raise vital control issues.