Autopistol

From Lexicanum

Autopistols are rapid-firing automatic pistols which fire in short bursts. They are similar to 20th century submachine guns, but more compact. Essentially they are the pistol version of the autogun.^1,2,3

Since the release of Codex: Imperial Guard (3rd Edition, 2nd Codex), the autogun has been removed from use due to a lack of distinction between it and the laspistol.

Autopistols are still in use throughout the Imperium due to the fact that they can be produced on low-tech worlds.

Like the autogun, the autopistol uses caseless ammunition. The weapon works by using a solid hammer to ignite a chemically combustible propellant, expelling the solid projectile through the barrel. The reactive force of the bullet's expulsion returns the breech, loads a further bullet, re-cocks the mechanism and (providing the trigger is still depressed) fires a further round until the magazine is empty or the trigger is released.

Some regiments, including the Cadian 8th, often equip their troops with autopistols as sidearms, improving their combat firepower. In other quarters, it is felt that only officers should be equipped with pistol weaponry, so such equipment is reserved for soldiers of and above the rank of Lieutenant.