Background and Objectives: Firearms, including pistols and rifles, are complex tools with military, sporting, and personal applications that require attention to ergonomics to optimize their design and functionality. This study aims to review existing research on the ergonomic features of firearms, with a particular focus on assault rifles.
Methods: This study employed a scoping review method to examine the ergonomics of firearms. Searches were conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases using keywords related to the ergonomic design of firearms. Relevant articles were selected from the collected studies, and data were extracted and reviewed by two authors, with results categorized based on common areas.
Results: A total of 3,121 studies were found through searches in databases, and after removing duplicates and reviewing titles and abstracts, 121 studies were downloaded and assessed based on inclusion criteria. Ultimately, 9 studies entered the final stage. The topics examined in the articles that impact the ergonomics of firearms included anthropometric considerations and human digital modeling, rifle configurations and design features, postural stability, safety, and training.
Conclusion: The ergonomic design of firearms has a significant impact on user performance, safety, and overall experience. Future design efforts should emphasize human-centered approaches, taking into account anthropometric data, firearm configuration, user stability, and safety mechanisms for the production of firearms.