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M90 shotgun: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|H1|H2|H3|HW|FOR|TF|FS|GOO|UP|HGN}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{HaloWikiLink|Shotgun}}
{{Weapon infobox
{{Weapon
|image=[[File:H2A M90Shotgun.png|300px]]
| image=[[Image:M90 Shotgun (Torch Side).jpg|300px]]
|name=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
| name=M90 Shotgun
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technologies]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=173}}
| manufacturer= [[Weapon System Technologies]]
|series=[[DTM series]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}
| model=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
|type=Pump-action shotgun{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
*Variants:
|cost=
**Halo: M90 Mk I
|variant=[[M90A shotgun]]
**Halo 2: M90 Mk II
|service=*[[Insurrection]]
**Halo 3: [[DTM Series]]-M90A
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
| type=Shotgun
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
| cost=cR. 2200
|length={{Convert|46.5|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
| size=Handheld, Two-Handed
|width=
*M90:
|height=
**Length: 118.1 centimeters
|weight=
*M90A:
|ammotype=[[8-Gauge Magnum|M296 8-Gauge Magnum]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**Length (o/a):123.9 cm (48.8 in.)
|capacity=
**Length (barrel):61 cm (24 in.)
|feed=12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**Weight (empty):5.4 kg (11.9 lbs)
|operation=[[wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
**Weight (loaded): 5.7 kg (12.6 lbs)
|rate=
| damage per hit=*Very high, instant kill (close ranges)
|velocity=
*Low-medium (medium ranges)
|optics=
| magazine= 8 gauge magnum (3.75”)
|range=
*M90: 12 Shells
*M90A: 6 Shells
| maxammo=
*M90 Mk I: 72 Shells or 6 Magazines
*M90 Mk II: 48 Shells or 4 Magazines
*M90A: 36 Shells or 6 Magazines
| fire=Pump Action
*Muzzle velocity:300-400 m/s (980-1300 f/s)
| ammotype=[[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell]]
| operation=Manual Pump-Action
| rate of fire= moderate
| accuracy=Low to Medium
| range=40 meters (131 ft)
*Short Range
| era=
| counterpart=[[Mauler]]
| counterwep=*At Medium Range: [[M6D]], [[Covenant Carbine]], [[BR55 Battle Rifle]]
*At Long Range: [[Sniper Rifle]]s,
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
}}
}}
The '''M90 Close Assault Weapon System'''<ref>http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun</ref>, more commonly known as the '''M90 Shotgun''', is the [[United Nations Space Command]]'s resident Shotgun series.
The '''M90 Close Assault Weapon System''' (CAWS),{{Ref/Book|Id=ENC325|Enc11|Page=325}} also known as the '''M90 Close Assault Shotgun''',{{Ref/Novel|Id=FS6|HFS|Chapter=6}} '''M90 assault shotgun''', or simply the '''M90''',{{Ref/Novel|Id=SS25|HSS|Chapter=25}} is a pump-action shotgun in service with [[UNSC]].{{Ref/Reuse|ENC325}} It is a military variant of the prolific [[DTM series]] of shotguns from [[Weapon System Technologies|Weapon Systems Technologies]].{{Ref/Site|Id=BnetShotgun|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun|Site=Bungie.net|Page=The M90A Shotgun|D=08|M=6|Y=2020|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M90A}}


== Introduction ==
The M90 is most prominently used by the [[UNSC Marine Corps]], with the [[UNSC Army]] instead preferring the [[M45E shotgun]]. However, the [[M45D shotgun]] has largely replaced both in general UNSC service as of the [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|post-Covenant War era]].{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


The M90 Shotgun is the resident UNSC close combat [[weapon]], and packs extreme stopping power at close ranges, and will kill almost any enemy in 1 hit at close ranges, it can also injure/kill up to 3 Covenant [[Grunt]]s with only 1 blast at close ranges. It is often wielded in urban conditions, where the close ranges are conducive to the shotgun's mode of operation. The shotgun also makes a perfect defensive weapon to fend off [[Covenant]] boarding parties inside starships.
==Overview==
===Design details===
The M90 is a pump-action shotgun, chambered in the extremely powerful 8-gauge magnum shell, and feeding from a 12-round, dual-tubular, non-detachable magazine.{{Ref/Book|Id=CEM|Halo: Combat Evolved manual|Page=18}} The extended magazine is included to aid the weapon's effectiveness in [[Naval boarding|boarding]] actions.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} It is generally utilized alongside MAG 15P-00B rounds,{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2AG}} and is designed as a more practical and cost-effective recreation of [[Misriah Armory]]’s [[M45E Tactical Shotgun]],{{Ref/Game|Id=HCEAL|HCEA|Library (feature)#Shotgun|Library|Detail=Shotgun}} though in UNSC service it is considered to be functionally identical.{{Ref/Generic|Id=HWDD6|[[Data drops]]|Data Drop #6}}


The weapon's power lies in the great stopping power of a cloud of buckshot, which, while extremely powerful in close-quarter combat, is useless at long ranges. However, it should be noted that the shotgun user can engage enemies at medium ranges also.
The magazine of the weapon is prominently positioned above the barrel, with the weapon’s glowing iron sights mounted atop it and the receiver located just behind, facing upwards, roughly in-line with the trigger. The magazine possesses a dull grey or glossy black finish with ribbed indents along its length. A flashlight is integrated into the weapon’s forend, which also features a prominent reddish button.{{Ref/Game|Id=HCEG|HCE|Shotgun in-game model}}{{Ref/Game|Id=H2G|H2|Shotgun in-game model}}{{Ref/Game|Id=H2AG|H2A|Shotgun in-game model}}


In the time space between Halo 1 & 3, three models were introduced:
===Functionality===
[[File:H2A Multiplayer M90 Firing.jpg|250px|thumb|A [[Spartan]] firing an M90.]]
The M90 shotgun is hefted like a rifle, with the user's dominant hand holding the primary pistol grip, and their off-hand supporting the weapon by holding onto the forend (the portion of the weapon which is acted upon by the user to facilitate the pump action, which also acts as a forward grip for the off-hand). As is typical of human firearms, in order to discharge the weapon, the trigger positioned at the top of the pistol grip must be depressed. If the weapon is loaded with standard ammunition, the weapon's firing will take the form of a spray of pellets, referred to as "buckshot", which are quite powerful at close range but lose damage efficiency as the spray disperses and loses energy. The firing of the weapon produces a fiery muzzle flash as burning propellant gasses leave the barrel.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2AG}}


*'''M90 Mk I'''
Once the chambered round is fired, to repeat, the forend of the weapon is slid back across the weapon's underside in the direction of the stock, retracting the bolt and removing the spent shell from the firing chamber. When the forend is fully retracted, the spent shell will have been ejected, and the way will have been cleared for the elevator component to position a new round for the bolt to carry into the chamber when the slide is once again pushed forward in the direction of the muzzle. Once the weapon’s magazine is expended, new rounds must be inserted one at a time into the receiver to continue firing. It is possible at any time to top up the magazine with additional ammunition until it is full.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2AG}}
*'''M90 Mk II'''
*'''M90A'''


== Models ==
===Performance===
=== M90 Mk I ===
The M90 is a devastating weapon in close, confined environments, with a loud report and strong recoil.{{Ref/Book|Id=H2M|Halo 2 manual|Page=11}} The spray of pellets from the weapon mean that at slightly longer ranges, it can be used to hit clusters of targets simultaneously,{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}} but also makes the weapon inefficient at extended ranges due to the low ratio of shot which hits the target to the amount of shot fired.{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}} The M90's powerful cartridge makes it capable of efficiently engaging and defeating enemies with [[energy shielding]] within effective range.{{Ref/Reuse|SS25}} The Covenant learned to be wary of this weapon in urban environments, noting its close-range lethality.{{Ref/Book|Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual|Page=}}
[[Image:M90 Mk I Shoutgun.jpg|150px|left|thumb|The M90 Mk I Shotgun, the first model, used in Halo 1]]
The first model presented in the Halo series. It had a 12 shell magazine, and the player carried up to 60 more shells (a total of 72 shells). It had the best effective range of all the Models overall. It could kill weak or injured targets at medium ranges, and could kill nearly any infantry target in one close or point blank shot. It even had the offensive capabilities to take on Lightly Armored vehicles such as the [[Ghost]] effectively. In the original Halo, players could hold the trigger button down for continuous fire (not rapid-fire).Although it seemed slightly more inaccurate than the other models.


=== M90 Mk II ===
==Operational history==
[[Image:M90 Mk II Shotgun.jpg|150px|thumb|left|The M90 Mk II, the model used in Halo 2]]
The M90 was a common close-range battle implement in the service of the UNSC throughout the [[Human-Covenant War]]. It saw service in the hands of [[John-117]] during [[Operation: SILENT STORM]],{{Ref/Reuse|SS25}} but its most prominent usage came in 2552. It played a notable part in the [[Battle of Installation 04]], being used by [[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]] against the [[Covenant]] and [[Flood]].{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}} An M90 was also present during the ensuing [[Skirmish over Threshold]].{{Ref/Reuse|FS6}} It went on to be widely utilized during the [[Battle of Earth]].{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}} Notably, the [[Unidentified Master Gunnery Sergeant|Master Gunnery Sergeant]] who oversaw John-117's issuing with his new [[MJOLNIR Mark VI armor]] was killed on [[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]] while using an M90 to defend his armory from a pair of [[Sangheili]].{{Ref/Level|H2|Cairo Station}} M90s were brought on the ''[[UNSC In Amber Clad]]'', and thus were employed throughout the [[Battle of Installation 05]].{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}} During the battle, many Marines wielded M90s during their [[Battle of the Quarantine Zone|incursion]] into the [[quarantine zone]]. Following the accidental release of the [[Flood]] by [[Thel 'Vadam|Thel 'Vadamee]], many of these Marines fell victim to the parasite, with their M90s remaining in the possession of the resultant [[Flood combat form|combat forms]].{{Ref/Level|H2|Sacred Icon}}{{Ref/Level|H2|Quarantine Zone}} Towards the end of the Battle of Installation 05, during the opening stages of the [[Great Schism]], many M90s were captured by [[Jiralhanae]] forces, who employed them against both [[Covenant separatists|separatist]] Sangheili on the ring's surface,{{Ref/Level|H2|Uprising}}{{Ref/Level|H2|The Great Journey}} and Flood during their [[Fall of High Charity|invasion]] of [[High Charity]].{{Ref/Level|H2|High Charity (level)|High Charity}}
The second model, the M90 Mk II, that was used in Halo 2. It changed significantly from the Mk I. It's appearance slightly changed, most notably with the green ironsights instead of blue. And its performance changed as well. It could not kill targets at more than an a few feet, though a quick shot-melee combo would usually kill. The shotgun was only very effective at extremely close range, and the player only carried 36 spare shells (a total of 48 shells). It probably took this change as Bungie introduced the [[Energy Sword]] as a wieldable weapon, and wanted to "even the odds".


=== M90A ===
==In-game information==
[[Image:M90 Shotgun (Torch Side).jpg|left|150px||thumb|The latest model, the M90A Close Assault Weapon System, used in Halo 3]]
===Visual depictions===
The newest model, the M90A, is used in Halo 3. It has greatly changed from all of the models, especially in appearance, with the blue ironsights reintroduced, a longer barrel and the flashlight is mounted on the side. Unlike the older models which had a 12 shell magazine, it only has a 6 shell magazine. The player can carry 30 spare shells (a total of 36 shells). And it's effective range is far greater than the M90 Mk II, being able to kill targets twice or even three times the range, depending on health.
[[File:HCE-M90Shotgun.png|350px|thumb|The depiction of the M90 from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.]]
{{Clear}}
The original ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' depiction is different in three notable aspects from the later depictions in ''[[Halo 2]]'' and ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''. The first is that the weapon features a smooth magazine lacking a heatshield, with a distinctive chrome finish. The second is that the luminous iron sights glow blue instead of green. The final differentiation is that in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', but not successive depictions, when the weapon is reloaded after being completely emptied, the weapon’s action is worked to chamber the first round, which is considerably more realistic.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}} A similar shotgun design, the [[M90A shotgun]], is featured in ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.


== Similarities/Differences between the M90 models ==
==Trivia==
[[Image:sm_h3_Shotgun.gif|thumb|A profile of the M90A]]
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M90 Shotgun}}
*The Shotgun appeared in [[Halo 1]]. The weapon's model was the Mk I, and had very pronounced blue front and back sights. It may have fired a different kind of ammunition than its' Halo 2 counterpart, as the range of this model was much longer, and the damage was slightly higher. The M90 Mk 1 was pump action (as every other Shotgun Model), but the Player could hold the Fire Button for continuous fire and pump (This cannot be done in Halo 2 & 3). The player could carry a very large amount of shotgun shells at one time, a total of 72 shells.
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the M90 shotgun shares its [[:File:Halo-SniperRifle-Reticule.png|reticule]] with the then-PC-exclusive [[M7057 flamethrower|flamethrower]].
*In the second issue of ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]'', the [[Unidentified captain (UNSC Dartmouth)|captain]] of the {{UNSCShip|Dartmouth}} retrieves several shotguns from a [[cryo chamber]]. In the first two panels, the shotguns appear to be [[M45 Tactical Shotgun|M45s]], though they resemble M90s in subsequent panels.
*In ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', if the player uses [[active camouflage]] while the M90 is equipped, the shells will be the only objects still visible. This could be because the shells are technically not attached to the shotgun (like the magazines in other weapons) but rather held inside the weapon until ignited and fired. This is best seen when playing as [[Thel 'Vadam|the Arbiter]].
*In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', the shotgun is the most effective weapon in the game against most [[Flood]] forms. A single shot is capable of killing [[Flood combat form]]s and [[Flood carrier form]]s and works best when paired with a weapon with a high-rate of fire such as an [[MA5B assault rifle]] to deal with [[Pod infector]]s. The shotgun is still effective in later games, but not to such a degree as, starting in ''[[Halo 2]]'', infection forms can revive deceased combat forms unless the body is destroyed. ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' lacked this resuscitation ability for the Flood.


*It also appeared in [[Halo 2]]. This model was the Mk II, and although it did more or less the same amount of damage, its range was greatly reduced. It also featured a green Ironsight & a decreased ammo capacity, with the player only able to carry a total of 48 shells at a time. It should also be noted that the reload time was significantly slower.
==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:HCE_M90Shotgun_Icon.png|''Halo: Combat Evolved'' M90 icon.
File:M90 Shotgun.png|The M90 as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
File:Shotgun-render.png|The shotgun in the hands of [[John-117]] in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:HCE 343 Guilty Spark Marine holding a M90.jpg|A Marine using an M90.
File:Floodambush.jpg|First-person view of the M90 in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:Halo2-M90-Shotgun.png|Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in ''[[Halo 2]]''. As in the previous game, the weapon lacks a trigger.
File:Halo2-MasterChiefShotgun.png|John-117 holding an M90.
File:HaloWars-Forge-Shotgun.jpg|Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:Homecoming Shotgun Concept.png|The shotgun as it appears in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[Homecoming]]''.
File:H2A M90 Concept.jpg|''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' concept art of the M90.
File:H2ACP-M90HUD.png|First-person view of the M90 in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H2A Brute Minor.png|A [[Jiralhanae]] [[Jiralhanae Minor|Minor]] holding an M90 shotgun in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:GamescomH2AShotguns.jpg|Two Spartans using M90 shotguns in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' multiplayer.
File:H2AMP-M90HUD.png|First-person view of the M90 on Stonetown.
File:H2AMP-M90.png|The M90 being used by a Spartan on Stonetown.
</gallery>


*The newest model, The M90A appears in [[Halo 3]], as it did in the [[Halo 3 Beta|Beta]]. The original blue ironsights has returned, and it now  has a longer range, but half the capacity of the magazine capacity than the Halo & Halo 2 Models. The Player can carry up to a total of 36 Shells.
==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp|Boot Camp]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Know Your Enemy]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''


*The DTM Series of the M90A shotgun is available in 20 gauge, and 10 gauge for the civilian market. The 8 gauge is only sold to law enforcement (such as the WST DTM/LE model) and military agencies. The DTM series has not appeared in games.
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}


== Advantages ==
{{UNSC support weapons}}
 
[[Category:Shotguns]]
Since the shotgun fires 15 spreading pellets per shot, the combined force of each relatively weak pellet does a significant amount of damage. Its high damage potential (as much as a rocket in Halo 1 at close range) makes it effective against almost any [[Covenant]] unit (even the [[Hunters (Lekgolo)|Hunter]], if shot in its exposed back), but only if the player can get close enough to render the gun effective. In addition, this weapon is extremely effective against all forms of [[Flood]] at short and medium ranges (depending on the model), and is capable of eliminating Combat forms in 1 shot, and a group of infection forms with 1 shot also. The shotgun also reloads in a different manner than the rest of the weapons in ''Halo''. Each round is put into the shotgun, one-by-one, so reloading all six/twelve shells at one time may take a while. However, the player may interrupt the reloading process at any time and fire with however as many rounds are currently loaded into the weapon. Another popular way of firing the shotgun involves inserting a shell, firing, and then inserting another shell, etc. While this takes slightly longer, it has the advantage of always having shells chambered. Apart from that it is devastating in close combat, stronger than an [[Energy Sword]] swipe, but slightly weaker than the Energy Sword lunge.
 
== Disadvantages ==
 
While highly effective at close range, Medium/Long Range Weapon can render it useless if out in the open. And the time to reload can make fighting with a great deal of enemies difficult, especially without cover to hide behind.
 
== Campaign Recommendations ==
 
If you see one of these, you had better pick it up. It is extremely effective against the Flood, and works great on levels like [[The Library (Level)|The Library]] or [[Sacred Icon (Level)|Sacred Icon]] in the case of [[Halo 2]]. Reload whenever you have a chance, and remember to hide behind something and avoid [[Elites]] and [[Infection Forms]]. You reload shell by shell, so it is best to use with a large amount of cover. Remember though in Halo 2, [[Brutes]], [[Councilor]] and [[Ultra Elites]] are the only ones that can survive a point blank shotgun blast on normal difficulty ([[Hunters]] can be killed by shooting directly into their orange fleshy openings on their armor). However, on [[Legendary]] difficulty anything higher than a [[Minor Elite]]s shielding and health can withstand a point blank shotgun blast (this includes [[Lekgolo|Hunters]]).
 
== Multiplayer Recommendations ==
 
The shotgun's effectiveness in multiplayer games varies depending on the terrain; indoors and in tight spaces, the shotgun is unbeatable (equal to the [[Energy Sword]]). Many players carry the shotgun and a weapon that is very effective at Medium and above ranges such as the [[sniper rifle]], [[Covenant Carbine]],  [[M6D]], or [[BR55 Battle Rifle]], thus making for a more flexible arsenal. Continuous firing by using the magazine and loading one shell then firing does not affect the rate of fire significantly, prompting a few players to employ a tactic dubbed "shotgun sniping" as suppressive fire across medium-sized maps. On the Internet, many games are shotguns only, with most of these battles being set in the map [[Battle Creek (Level)]].There is move combo players commonly use with the shotgun: since the enemy players commonly are on the move when being advanced on by a foe with a "special" weapon like the sword, rocket launcher, shotgun or a vehicle, players with the shotgun can finish enemies off safely and quickly by shooting them at a decently close range, then striking them with a melee attack immediately afterwards, guaranteeing an instant kill.
 
Tip: 3 shots can kill an enemy with overshields!
[[Image:Spartan_with_Shotgun.jpg|thumb|175px|Spartan with Shotgun in Halo 3.]]
=== Multiplayer Medals (Halo 3) ===
 
* [[Shotgun Spree Medal]] - Gun down 5 opponents in a row without dying.
* [[Open Season Medal]] - Gun down 10 opponents in a row without dying.
 
== Ammo ==
 
The M90 Shotgun uses the [[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell|Soellkraft 8 Gauge magnum shotgun Shell]]. This is an incredibly large round not used by most modern militaries, but recoil has been said to be relatively low,<ref>http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun</ref> so either technology must have improved in the future, or the one wielding it (Master Chief, the Arbiter, Brutes, etc.) is strong enough to handle it compared to most others. The shells have a hippo on the side in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]]. The shotgun in [[Halo 3]] has only six shells per magazine, a downsize from [[Halo 2]]'s 12.
 
== Influence ==
 
The ''mechanical'' design of the M90 shotgun is loosely based on the South African Neostead shotgun which features dual six-round top-loaded magazines. The weapon features two integral tube magazines with a total capacity of twelve rounds (6+6+1) and ambidextrous bottom ejecting shells. It is chambered for standard 12-Gauge 2.75-inch cartridges. The ''aesthetic'' design is a composite of multiple pump-action designs, most notably the Mossberg 500.
 
== UNSC Remarks ==
 
“The kick is milder with the ehs—not that it was that bad to begin with—sometimes progress just seems like change, if you catch my meaning.”
 
“The adjustable stock on the M90 works just fine, but I’ve got a soft spot in my heart for the DTM/LE model—old habits die hard I guess."
 
“I believe that the sound of racking the pump of a shotgun is universally recognized as ‘kiss your ass goodbye’."
 
“The action I saw against the Flood on Delta Halo was pretty limited—thankfully—and you would think that the M90 would be the ultimate anti-Flood weapon, right? Except that a shotgun is effective because it delivers a massive shock to a delicately balance system of organs and the Flood don’t have that delicately balanced system of organs—it’s like shooting a Mike Foxtrot tree! All you can really hope to do is disassemble them as rapidly as possible in the correct order.”
 
“The shotgun is a specialist weapon—it has its uses, but they are limited. Maybe it is more accurate to call it a tool, as opposed to a weapon?”
 
== Character Compatibility ==
 
*[[Spartans]]
*[[Marines]]
*[[Elites]]
*[[Brutes]]
*[[Jackals]] (have animation but not used)
*[[Drones]] (have animation but not used)
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Human)]]
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Elite)]]
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Brute)]]
 
== References ==
<references/>
 
{{Clear}}
{{WepList}}
 
 
[[Category:Held Weapons]]
 
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
 
[[Category:UNSC]]
 
[[Category:Weapons]]

Revision as of 09:52, December 25, 2023

M90 Close Assault Weapon System
H2A M90Shotgun.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Weapon System Technologies[1][2]

Model series:

DTM series[1]

Type:

Pump-action shotgun[3][4]

Variants:

M90A shotgun

Specifications

Length:

118 centimeters (46.5 in)[2]

Ammunition type:

M296 8-Gauge Magnum[2]

Feed system:

12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine[3][2]

Operation:

Pump-action[3][4]

Service history

In service:

 

The M90 Close Assault Weapon System (CAWS),[5] also known as the M90 Close Assault Shotgun,[6] M90 assault shotgun, or simply the M90,[7] is a pump-action shotgun in service with UNSC.[5] It is a military variant of the prolific DTM series of shotguns from Weapon Systems Technologies.[1]

The M90 is most prominently used by the UNSC Marine Corps, with the UNSC Army instead preferring the M45E shotgun. However, the M45D shotgun has largely replaced both in general UNSC service as of the post-Covenant War era.[2]

Overview

Design details

The M90 is a pump-action shotgun, chambered in the extremely powerful 8-gauge magnum shell, and feeding from a 12-round, dual-tubular, non-detachable magazine.[3] The extended magazine is included to aid the weapon's effectiveness in boarding actions.[2] It is generally utilized alongside MAG 15P-00B rounds,[8][9][10] and is designed as a more practical and cost-effective recreation of Misriah Armory’s M45E Tactical Shotgun,[11] though in UNSC service it is considered to be functionally identical.[12]

The magazine of the weapon is prominently positioned above the barrel, with the weapon’s glowing iron sights mounted atop it and the receiver located just behind, facing upwards, roughly in-line with the trigger. The magazine possesses a dull grey or glossy black finish with ribbed indents along its length. A flashlight is integrated into the weapon’s forend, which also features a prominent reddish button.[8][9][10]

Functionality

A Spartan firing an M90 shotgun in H2A multiplayer.
A Spartan firing an M90.

The M90 shotgun is hefted like a rifle, with the user's dominant hand holding the primary pistol grip, and their off-hand supporting the weapon by holding onto the forend (the portion of the weapon which is acted upon by the user to facilitate the pump action, which also acts as a forward grip for the off-hand). As is typical of human firearms, in order to discharge the weapon, the trigger positioned at the top of the pistol grip must be depressed. If the weapon is loaded with standard ammunition, the weapon's firing will take the form of a spray of pellets, referred to as "buckshot", which are quite powerful at close range but lose damage efficiency as the spray disperses and loses energy. The firing of the weapon produces a fiery muzzle flash as burning propellant gasses leave the barrel.[8][9][10]

Once the chambered round is fired, to repeat, the forend of the weapon is slid back across the weapon's underside in the direction of the stock, retracting the bolt and removing the spent shell from the firing chamber. When the forend is fully retracted, the spent shell will have been ejected, and the way will have been cleared for the elevator component to position a new round for the bolt to carry into the chamber when the slide is once again pushed forward in the direction of the muzzle. Once the weapon’s magazine is expended, new rounds must be inserted one at a time into the receiver to continue firing. It is possible at any time to top up the magazine with additional ammunition until it is full.[8][9][10]

Performance

The M90 is a devastating weapon in close, confined environments, with a loud report and strong recoil.[4] The spray of pellets from the weapon mean that at slightly longer ranges, it can be used to hit clusters of targets simultaneously,[3] but also makes the weapon inefficient at extended ranges due to the low ratio of shot which hits the target to the amount of shot fired.[4] The M90's powerful cartridge makes it capable of efficiently engaging and defeating enemies with energy shielding within effective range.[7] The Covenant learned to be wary of this weapon in urban environments, noting its close-range lethality.[13]

Operational history

The M90 was a common close-range battle implement in the service of the UNSC throughout the Human-Covenant War. It saw service in the hands of John-117 during Operation: SILENT STORM,[7] but its most prominent usage came in 2552. It played a notable part in the Battle of Installation 04, being used by UNSC Marines against the Covenant and Flood.[8] An M90 was also present during the ensuing Skirmish over Threshold.[6] It went on to be widely utilized during the Battle of Earth.[9] Notably, the Master Gunnery Sergeant who oversaw John-117's issuing with his new MJOLNIR Mark VI armor was killed on Cairo Station while using an M90 to defend his armory from a pair of Sangheili.[14] M90s were brought on the UNSC In Amber Clad, and thus were employed throughout the Battle of Installation 05.[9] During the battle, many Marines wielded M90s during their incursion into the quarantine zone. Following the accidental release of the Flood by Thel 'Vadamee, many of these Marines fell victim to the parasite, with their M90s remaining in the possession of the resultant combat forms.[15][16] Towards the end of the Battle of Installation 05, during the opening stages of the Great Schism, many M90s were captured by Jiralhanae forces, who employed them against both separatist Sangheili on the ring's surface,[17][18] and Flood during their invasion of High Charity.[19]

In-game information

Visual depictions

The depiction of the M90 from Halo: Combat Evolved.

The original Halo: Combat Evolved depiction is different in three notable aspects from the later depictions in Halo 2 and Halo 2: Anniversary. The first is that the weapon features a smooth magazine lacking a heatshield, with a distinctive chrome finish. The second is that the luminous iron sights glow blue instead of green. The final differentiation is that in Halo: Combat Evolved, but not successive depictions, when the weapon is reloaded after being completely emptied, the weapon’s action is worked to chamber the first round, which is considerably more realistic.[8] A similar shotgun design, the M90A shotgun, is featured in Halo 3 and Halo 3: ODST.

Trivia

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to M90 shotgun on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • In Halo: Combat Evolved, the M90 shotgun shares its reticule with the then-PC-exclusive flamethrower.
  • In the second issue of Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp, the captain of the UNSC Dartmouth retrieves several shotguns from a cryo chamber. In the first two panels, the shotguns appear to be M45s, though they resemble M90s in subsequent panels.
  • In Halo 2: Anniversary, if the player uses active camouflage while the M90 is equipped, the shells will be the only objects still visible. This could be because the shells are technically not attached to the shotgun (like the magazines in other weapons) but rather held inside the weapon until ignited and fired. This is best seen when playing as the Arbiter.
  • In Halo: Combat Evolved, the shotgun is the most effective weapon in the game against most Flood forms. A single shot is capable of killing Flood combat forms and Flood carrier forms and works best when paired with a weapon with a high-rate of fire such as an MA5B assault rifle to deal with Pod infectors. The shotgun is still effective in later games, but not to such a degree as, starting in Halo 2, infection forms can revive deceased combat forms unless the body is destroyed. Halo: Combat Evolved lacked this resuscitation ability for the Flood.

Gallery

  • Halo: Combat Evolved M90 icon.

    Halo: Combat Evolved M90 icon.

  • The M90 as it appears in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    The M90 as it appears in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • The shotgun in the hands of John-117 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    The shotgun in the hands of John-117 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • A Marine using an M90.

    A Marine using an M90.

  • First-person view of the M90 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    First-person view of the M90 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in Halo 2. As in the previous game, the weapon lacks a trigger.

    Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in Halo 2. As in the previous game, the weapon lacks a trigger.

  • John-117 holding an M90.

    John-117 holding an M90.

  • Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in Halo Wars.

    Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in Halo Wars.

  • The shotgun as it appears in Halo Legends: Homecoming.

    The shotgun as it appears in Halo Legends: Homecoming.

  • Halo 2: Anniversary concept art of the M90.

    Halo 2: Anniversary concept art of the M90.

  • First-person view of the M90 in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    First-person view of the M90 in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • A Jiralhanae Minor holding an M90 shotgun in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    A Jiralhanae Minor holding an M90 shotgun in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Two Spartans using M90 shotguns in Halo 2: Anniversary multiplayer.

    Two Spartans using M90 shotguns in Halo 2: Anniversary multiplayer.

  • First-person view of the M90 on Stonetown.

    First-person view of the M90 on Stonetown.

  • The M90 being used by a Spartan on Stonetown.

    The M90 being used by a Spartan on Stonetown.

List of appearances

Sources

  1. ^ a b c Bungie.net, The M90A Shotgun (Retrieved on Jun 8, 2020) [local archive] [external archive]
  2. ^ a b c d e f Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 173
  3. ^ a b c d e Halo: Combat Evolved manual, page 18
  4. ^ a b c d Halo 2 manual, page 11
  5. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 325
  6. ^ a b Halo: First Strike, chapter 6
  7. ^ a b c Halo: Silent Storm, chapter 25
  8. ^ a b c d e f Halo: Combat Evolved, Shotgun in-game model
  9. ^ a b c d e f Halo 2, Shotgun in-game model
  10. ^ a b c d Halo 2: Anniversary, Shotgun in-game model
  11. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Library: Shotgun
  12. ^ Data drops, Data Drop #6
  13. ^ Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual
  14. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Cairo Station
  15. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Sacred Icon
  16. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Quarantine Zone
  17. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Uprising
  18. ^ Halo 2, campaign level The Great Journey
  19. ^ Halo 2, campaign level High Charity

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List of infantry support weapons in UNSC service
Anti-vehicle weapons
Guided munitions launchers
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