What type of weapon is described as a shoulder-fired weapon?

The correct answer is a rifle, as rifles are specifically designed to be fired from the shoulder, utilizing the shooter’s upper body to stabilize and aim the weapon. The long barrel of a rifle, combined with its stock that rests against the shoulder, allows for improved accuracy and control when firing. This design is essential for engaging targets at various distances and for maintaining a steady aim over time.

Other options may include shoulder-fired weapons as well, but they each have distinct characteristics and purposes that differentiate them from rifles. Submachine guns are typically designed for automatic or semi-automatic fire and are often used in close quarters rather than for precision long-distance engagements. Shotguns are versatile but are generally used for short-range and spread-fire applications rather than the accuracy associated with rifles. Sniper rifles, although shoulder-fired, represent a specialized subset of rifles that are optimized for long-range precision shooting and often involve additional features that make them suitable for that specific duty.