I've never played a gnome, nor have I ever seen one played by anyone.
Gnomes speak gnome, goblin, kobold, and dwarf.
My vision of a gnome PC was decidedly different than the above. Any medium melee weapon, though two hands are required to wield it. Shortbow, light crossbow, sling, bola, dart. Gnomes generally prefer shortswords and light crossbows. Any, shield permitted.