As used in shooting at gangsters? (3)
I believe the answer is:
gat
'as' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how they can define each other.
'in shooting at gangsters?' is the wordplay.
'in' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'GAT' is hidden within 'shooting at gangsters'.
'used' acts as a link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for gat that I've seen before include "Slang for a gangster's pistol" , "Gangster's gun" , "in Indian music, the last bit of raga" , "Revolver (informal)" , "Piece" .)