Which type of weapon is categorized as "small arms"?

Small arms are defined as handheld firearms that can be carried and operated by a single individual. This category encompasses a range of weaponry including pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shotguns. The classification of rifles and shotguns within small arms is due to their design, intended use, and the fact that they are manageable for personal use by individuals, making them distinctly different from larger weapons.

On the other hand, explosive devices, conventional artillery, and armored vehicles belong to different categories of weaponry. Explosives can refer to a wide array of devices used to cause destruction but are not typically classified as small arms. Conventional artillery refers to larger, crew-served weapons like cannons and howitzers, which are not handheld. Armored vehicles, such as tanks, are also not considered small arms since they are large, mechanized pieces of equipment rather than individual weapons. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the essence of small arms as those firearms that are designed for personal use by soldiers or civilians.