Which of the following terms refers to a semiautomatic pistol or revolver?

The term that refers specifically to a semiautomatic pistol or revolver is "handgun." Handguns are designed to be held and operated with one hand, which distinguishes them from long guns, such as shotguns and rifles, that typically require the use of both hands for shooting.

A semiautomatic pistol operates by using the energy from firing a round to automatically load the next round into the chamber, allowing the shooter to fire again quickly with each pull of the trigger. Revolvers, which feature a rotating cylinder that holds multiple cartridges, also qualify as handguns, though they operate differently than semiautomatic pistols.

While the term "firearm" is broader and encompasses all types of guns, including handguns, shotguns, and rifles, it does not specifically indicate the type of weapon. Similarly, "shotgun" and "rifle" refer to long guns that are distinct from handguns in both design and operation. Thus, "handgun" is the precise term that accurately describes semiautomatic pistols and revolvers.