[Kromm]

The thing to do is exploit short reach (or "handiness," if you prefer) – that's harder than exploiting long reach, but it is possible.

That said, there's no reason for any two weapons to be comparable in the game or in real life on the basis of general factors such as skill difficulty and cost. Both Guns (SMG) and Guns (Rifle) are DX/E, and a good SMG costs as much as a good battle rifle ($1,200-$1,500). Both Saber and Rapier are DX/A, and the weapons are fairly close in price. The demand for the "lesser" weapon comes from its utility in special situations: an SMG has Bulk -3* or -4* to the battle rifle's -5 or -6; a saber is at -3 to Holdout and -4 to skill in close combat to a rapier's -5 to Holdout and -8 to skill in close combat. If you don't plan to conceal your weapon or use it in tight quarters, then go with the longest, heaviest weapon your money will buy!