Personal Defense Weapons or PDWs, a relatively new class of firearms, are compact, magazine-fed weapons designed for close-quarters combat and personal defense. These weapons combine the portability of a pistol with the accuracy and range of a rifle, making them ideal for military, law enforcement, and civilian use in confined spaces or urban environments. Modern PDWs typically fire pistol cartridges, such as 9x19mm Parabellum or .40 S&W, from a detachable magazine and feature a folding stock or brace for increased portability.
The development of PDWs was driven by the need for a weapon that could provide more firepower and accuracy than a pistol but be more compact and maneuverable than a traditional rifle. PDWs have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility and effectiveness in close-quarters combat situations. They are often used by military and law enforcement personnel as a secondary weapon or for specialized roles, such as room clearing or hostage rescue.
