M634 Experimental High-Powered Semi-Armor-Piercing: Difference between revisions

==Overview==

The M634 X-HP-SAP was developed in conjunction with the prototype [[XBR55 Battle Rifle]]. As an experimental round, its use is only limited to the [[BR55 Battle Rifle]], the [[BR55 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle]], and the [[BR85 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle]]. While the round was designated as experimental around [[2525]], at some point between then and [[2558]], the "experimental" designation was dropped, becoming the M634 9.5×40mm HP-SAP.<ref name="waypoint"/>

Performance-wise, this round is accurate enough that the 2× scope on the Battle Rifle is useful. Even when fired in three-shot bursts, the round produces light recoil resulting in very minor muzzle climb. It is more effective against both shielded and unshielded [[Covenant]] personnel than the [[7.62x51mm|M118 7.62×51mm round]], as the M634's greater accuracy generates greater kinetic energy, resulting in faster shield depletion and increased damage to unshielded enemies. Overall, the M634 X-HP-SAP round provides good accuracy, control, and effectiveness against all foes.

The M634 is likely the result of human inclinations towards increased size (leading to the 9.5&nbsp;mm bullet) and technological manipulation (leading to the experimental propellant). It's also possible the large caliber, while overkill by current standards, is required to defeat the advanced body armor of the Insurrectionists, and later, the Covenant. Additionally, the round is very similar in dimensions to the .375 SOCOM round, which came out after the battle rifle first premiered in ''Halo 2'', but shares its 9.5×40mm cartridge measurements. At some point before 2558, the experimental identification of the M634 was removed, suggesting the round received formal adoption by the [[United Nations Space Command]].

Interestingly, the SVDK is chambered in 9.3×64mm, which is quite close. It is possible that it may have been parented from this round as well. Both share a requirement of having to defeat much tougher targets, cover, and even possibly being pressed into engaging light vehicles. With the proliferation of armor however, it is likely that the penetration range is limited.

==Gallery==