The term "infantry support gun" refers to a class of artillery weapons designed to provide direct support to foot soldiers in the field. Synonyms for this term include "antipersonnel cannon," "machine gun," "light howitzer," "mortar," and "field gun." These weapons range in size from small, handheld machine guns to larger, mounted artillery pieces capable of firing explosive rounds over long distances. Each type of infantry support gun offers unique advantages and disadvantages depending on the mission at hand, making it important for military planners to carefully consider the best tools for the job. Regardless of the specific weapon chosen, however, the primary goal of an infantry support gun remains the same: to bring swift and decisive firepower to bear in support of frontline troops.