Use 'ordnance' when discussing military equipment, especially during war or in training contexts. The soldiers trained with live ordnance to prepare for deployment.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not Handheld
'Ordnance' usually refers to large-caliber guns, not small firearms or handheld weapons. They loaded the ordnance onto the battleship before setting sail.
Pro Tip 3/3
Danger Implied
The word carries a sense of danger as it is associated with heavy weapons and explosives. The area was evacuated due to unexploded ordnance.