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{{Era|HCW}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Ratings}}
{{Weapon infobox
{{Weapon Infobox
|image = [[File:HReach-M45TacticalShotgunProfile.png|350px]]
| image=[[File:Halo Reach Shotgun.png|250px]]
|manufacturer = [[Misriah Armory]]<ref name="EVG">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 177''</ref><ref name="Reach">'''Halo: Reach'''</ref><ref name="bulle">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/08/08/The-Halo-Bulletin-8812.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''The Halo Bulletin: 8.8.12'']</ref>
| name=M45 Tactical Shotgun
|series = M45
| manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]
|type = Tactical shotgun
| model=M45
|cost =  
| type=Tactical shotgun
|variant =  
| cost=
* [[#M45D Tactical Shotgun|M45D]]
| size=
* [[#M45E Tactical Shotgun|M45E]]
| damage per hit=*Close Range: High to instant kill
|service = [[Insurrection]] <br> [[Human-Covenant War]] <br> [[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
*Medium Range: Low to medium
|affiliation = [[United Nations Space Command]]
*Long Range: None
|weight = M45D: {{Convert|3.6|kg|lb}}<ref name="universe">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/shotgun '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Shotgun'']</ref>
| magazine=6 shells
|length = M45D: 112.9 cm (44.4 in){{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
| maxammo=30 shells
|width = M45D: 11.2 cm (4.4 in)<ref name="H4EVG">'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 70''</ref>
| fire=Pump action
|height = M45D: 24.4 cm (9.6 in){{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
| ammotype=[[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell]]{{Citation needed}}
|ammotype = [[M296 Magnum|M296 8 gauge magnum]]{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}<ref>[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/intel/inteldetail/ccc09c2e-f632-4e4a-91a5-6e6e1bd9075d/shotgun- '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Shotgun'']</ref>
| operation=Manual pump action
|capacity =
| rate of fire=
|feed = 5/6 shells (M45 & M45D);{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|bulle}} 12 shells (M45E)<ref name="Anniversary">'''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary'''</ref>
| velocity=
|operation = [[Wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]
| accuracy=Low
|rate = ~60 RPM (semi-auto){{Citation needed}}
| range=Short
|velocity =  
| era=
|optics =
| counterpart=[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword|Energy Sword]]
|range = Short
| counterwep=
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] [[UNSC Army|Army]]
}}
}}
The '''M45 Tactical Shotgun''', formally known as the '''Tactical Shotgun, 8 Gauge, Pump Action, M45''', is a shotgun used by the [[United Nations Space Command]] [[UNSC Army|Army]].<ref name="stats">[http://www.bungie.net/Stats/Reach/CareerStats.aspx?player=BIGsheep '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Career Stats - Weapons'']</ref>


==Design details==
The '''M45 Tactical Shotgun''' (formally '''Tactical Shotgun, 8 Gauge, Pump Action, M45''') is a [[shotgun]] manufactured by [[Misriah Armory]].{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}<ref name="Library">'''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''': ''[[Library (feature)|Library]]''</ref> The M45 is commonly used by the [[United Nations Space Command]] alongside the [[M90 shotgun|M90 Close Assault Weapon System]], a functionally identical copy designed by [[Weapon System Technology]].{{Ref/Reuse|Library}}<ref name="stats">[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=ordnance '''Bungie.net''' - ''Halo: Reach - Intel - Ordnance'']</ref>
 
== Overview ==
[[File:ReachSchematic - Shotgun.png|150px|thumb|left|A blueprint of the M45 Tactical Shotgun.]]
[[File:ReachSchematic - Shotgun.png|150px|thumb|left|A blueprint of the M45 Tactical Shotgun.]]
The M45 Tactical Shotgun is a special-purpose weapon used in any situation where the range of engagement is limited and when over-penetration is not desirable, but maximum stopping power is required.<ref name="stats"/> Like the [[M90 Close Assault Weapon System]], the M45 is a pump-action, magazine-fed (dual tubular, non-detachable type) weapon that uses 8 gauge magnum (3.75”) ammunition. It features an adjustable stock, however this is purely cosmetic in-game.
The M45 is used during most close-combat scenarios (particularly in urban areas with heavy enemy occupation), as well as in boarding actions.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|Library}} It was used in numerous military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) situations during the [[Insurrection]] and was met with widespread acclaim by its users.{{Ref/Reuse|Library}} The M45 later saw widespread use during the [[Human-Covenant War]].{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
 
=== Design details ===
The M45 shotgun features a dual tubular, non-detachable magazine and is chambered for 8 gauge ammunition.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|stats}} The base model and the M45D may be fed up to six shells whereas the ''E'' variant accepts twelve. It is a special-purpose weapon used in any situation where the range of engagement is limited and when over-penetration is not desirable, but maximum stopping power is required. Some variants of the M45 shotgun feature a [[smart-linking|smart-linked]] controllable choke.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
 
== Variants ==
=== M45D Tactical Shotgun ===
The differences between the M45 and the M45D are mostly cosmetic, as the M45D retains the standard six-round internal magazine and firing mechanism. The M45D is unexpectedly comfortable to fire and simple to control, despite the shotgun's powerful 8 gauge cartridge and light weight. This is due to the M45D's [[Wikipedia:Magnetorheological damper|magnetorheological recoil dampening system]], which is considered very under-appreciated. The M45D shotgun does not feature a [[smart-linking|smart-linked]] controllable choke, unlike some M45 variants.{{Ref/Reuse|bulle}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
 
=== M45E Tactical Shotgun ===
The M45E boasts greater stopping power than the standard M45 and has a twelve-round internal magazine rather than the standard model's six-round magazine. It features blue iron sights instead of the red sights common to the original model, though it is otherwise superficially identical.{{Ref/Reuse|Anniversary}}{{Ref/Reuse|Library}}<ref name="DD6">'''[[Data Drop|Data Drop 6]]'''</ref>
 
=== Smart-scope model ===
Unlike past iterations of the M45, the smart-scope capable model is a dual-mode shotgun, capable of semi-automatic or pump-action operation.<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref>{{Ref/Note|Id=Dual|While the in-game description of the M45 claims the shotgun is semi-automatic the firearm is always pump-action. However, [[Edward Buck]] appears to use the semi-automatic mode in the opening cutscene of the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' level "[[Osiris (level)|Osiris]]".}} It also features a [[Projection sight]].
 
==== Smart-scope variants ====
There are also several variants of this specific model:
* '''Lawgiver:''' This variant has increased stopping power, rate of fire, and accuracy compared to the standard smart-scope model.
* '''[[Blaze of Glory]]:''' This variant has the [[Kinetic bolts]] attachment equipped in order to fire hard-light projectiles with more range and added anti-materiél effect than the ''Lawgiver''. Its entire magazine can also be reloaded with one shell. In addition, its sound effect is the same as that of a [[Spartan abilities#Smart Scope/Hover|smart-scoped]] [[Z-250 lightrifle|LightRifle]] when fired in first person, and that of a hipfired LightRifle when fired in third person. The Blaze of Glory can also be found as a [[Special weapons (Halo 5: Guardians)|hidden weapon]] in the mission [[Blue Team (level)|Blue Team]].<ref name="H5G-BlueTeam">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''', campaign level ''[[Blue Team (level)|Blue Team)]]''</ref>
* '''[[Oathsworn]]:''' ''Oathsworn'' is a series of custom M45 shotguns created by [[SPARTAN-II program|Spartan-II]] [[Kelly-087]].
 
<gallery>
File:H4-M45DTacticalShotgun.png|M45D.
File:Shotgun2011.png|M45E.
File:H5G-Render-Shotgun.png|Smart-scope model.
File:H5 Shotgun Lawbringer.png|Smart-scope Lawgiver.
File:Halo 5 shotgun 3.png|Smart-scope Blaze of Glory.
File:H5G_M45O.png|Smart-scope Oathsworn.
</gallery>
 
== Derivatives ==
=== DTM Series ===
{{Main|DTM series}}
Due to the M45's popularity among UNSC service members during the Insurrection, [[Weapon System Technology]] opted to design a more affordable and more practical copy of the M45.{{Ref/Reuse|Library}} The resulting M90 Close Assault Weapon System is part of the DTM series, which is marketed to the military, [[WST DTM/Law Enforcement|law enforcement]], and civilians. The standard model of the M90 Close Assault Weapon System is functionally identical to the M45E,{{Ref/Reuse|DD6}} possessing a twelve-shell internal magazine, as well as matching the original in range, shot spread, and stopping power.{{Ref/Reuse|Anniversary}} The M90A is based on the original M45 Tactical Shotgun and performs almost identically, despite its longer barrel; it too features a six-round internal magazine.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} Although the M90 has since dominated both the military and private sector,{{Ref/Reuse|Library}} it is common for UNSC personnel (particularly [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]]) to use both weapons concurrently.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|Library}}{{Ref/Reuse|DD6}}
 
== Gameplay ==
=== ''Halo: Reach'' ===
The M45 shotgun is more powerful than the M90A from ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''. The pellets have a tighter grouping and the range is superior as well, which also makes it harder to hit multiple enemies at close range. Although this change is hardly noticeable, impact force can be noticed as damage is higher.


==Gameplay==
The shotgun is very powerful in small confined maps. It should be used as a "corridor sweeper" because of its extreme damage at close range. The ''Halo: Reach'' version of this shotgun also has more recoil than its ''Halo 3'' counterpart.
In gameplay, the M45 Tactical Shotgun is more powerful than the M90 Close Assault Weapon System from ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''. The pellets have a tighter grouping and the range is superior as well, which also makes it harder to hit multiple enemies at close range. Although this change is hardly noticeable, impact force can be noticed as damage is higher.


The shotgun is very powerful in small confined maps. It should be used as a "corridor sweeper" because of its extreme damage at close range. When you are carrying this weapon people will mark you out as an important target due to the fact that you control a power weapon.
=== ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary'' ===
In ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary'', the M45E is used in lieu of the M90 CAWS featured in the original game.{{Ref/Reuse|Anniversary}} As the changes between the original weapon and its replacement are superficial, the weapon performs identically to the M90 in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. The weapon model uses the M45 Tactical Shotgun seen in the ''[[Halo: Reach Beta]]''.


A good [[Armor Ability]] to use with this weapon wood be [[Active Camo]], because of its close range capability Active Camo would make it far easier to aproach or sneak up to your opponent and take them out with one or two shots.
=== ''Halo 4'' ===
The M45D Shotgun, according to 343 Industries employee Chris King, has ''"a lot longer range now, less damage falloff, and is quite a bit more powerful than say the Reach version overall."'' In terms of relative firepower, the shotgun is a one-shot kill weapon and should be used for close encounters. It is notable for penetrating enemy shields, particularly [[Sangheili|Elites]], and it takes only two shots to kill a [[Promethean Knight]].{{Ref/Reuse|bulle}}


==Trivia==
=== ''Halo 5: Guardians'' ===
*It is possible that Bungie named this shotgun the M45 because it is the in-game counterpart to the M90 from the other games: 45 is half of 90.
The M45 operates similarly to its ''Halo 4'' counterpart, with a few additions; like all weapons in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'', it can be [[smart scope]]d to increase its accuracy (in this case, tightening its pellet spread with a trade off of increased recoil), its base range is increased, its magazine has been reduced to 5 rounds instead of 6, and its tactical flashlight (previously just an aesthetic part of the weapon's design) is continuously on. The shotgun still features the problem of pellet inconsistency, though, making it ineffective for engagements past {{convert|10|m|ft|sigfig=2|sp=us}}, where the similar but non-hitscan [[Z-180 Scattershot|Scattershot]] may be a better choice. The M45 is the preferred weapon of Kelly-087.
*In the ''Halo: Reach'' [[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta|Multiplayer Beta]], the shotgun had cyan lights similar to those on the M90 in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 3''. The sights are red in the final game.
*The M45 is the weapon of choice for [[Spartan-III Program|Spartan-III]] [[Emile-A239|Emile-A239]].
*The M45 pumps at the end of every reload animation. In reality, doing this when the weapon isn't empty would eject an unused shell.


==Gallery==
=== ''Halo: Spartan Assault'' and ''Halo: Spartan Strike'' ===
<gallery widths="160">
The M45D Shotgun has an extremely short range though significant spread; however, it inflicts massive damage at point-blank range, enough to kill an Elite Major in one shot. The weapon's ammo is capped at 30. Due to its extremely short range, it is not recommended to fight Brute Chieftains with this weapon.
 
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
===Silver Timeline===
{{Notice/Silver|category=no}}
M45 Tactical Shotguns are used by [[Silver Team/Silver|Silver Team]] and other UNSC personnel in battles against the Covenant.{{Ref/Film|[[Halo: The Television Series]]}}
 
== Trivia ==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M45 Tactical Shotgun}}
* In the ''Halo: Reach'' [[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta|Multiplayer Beta]], the shotgun had cyan lights similar to those on the M90. The sights are red in the final game.
* In ''Halo: Reach'', the M45 is pumped at the end of every Spartan reload animation, whereas [[Sangheili]] cycle the action upon drawing the weapon. In reality, doing this with a loaded chamber would eject an unused shell.
* In the ''Halo: Reach'' strategy guide, the silhouette used to mark shotgun spawns points on multiplayer maps appears to be missing their stocks. However, the M45 does not feature a collapsible stock and does not appear in the final version of the game.
* 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 M45s, though they appear to be M90s in subsequent panels.
 
== Gallery ==
<gallery>
File:HR_M45Shotgun_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the M45 Tactical Shotgun for ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.
File:M45TS.png|Profile of the M45 TS.
File:M45TS.png|Profile of the M45 TS.
File:Halo Reach Shotgun.png|An angled view of the M45 Tactical Shotgun from the ''Halo: Reach Beta''.
File:Halo Reach M45 TS.jpg|A side-view of a [[B-class Mjolnir|Mark V(B)]]-clad [[SPARTAN-III program|Spartan-III]] wielding the M45 Tactical Shotgun in the ''[[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta]]''.
File:HReach-M45TacticalShotgunProfile.png|M45 in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:HReach-M45TacticalShotgunSide.png|A right side view of the M45 Tactical Shotgun from ''Halo: Reach''.
File:M45TSfiring.jpg|A close-up of a [[GRENADIER-class Mjolnir|Grenadier]]-clad Spartan-III firing the M45.
File:Reach_Army_Soldier3.jpg|A UNSC Army soldier using the M45 Tactical Shotgun.
File:Shotgun sights.jpg|The M45's iron sights.
File:Halo- Reach - M45TS First Person View.jpg|A first-person view of a player armed with the M45 Tactical Shotgun.
File:Halo- Reach - M45TS First Person View.jpg|A first-person view of a player armed with the M45 Tactical Shotgun.
File:Halo Reach M45 TS.jpg|A side-view of a [[SPARTAN-III program|SPARTAN-III]] wielding the M45 Tactical Shotgun in the ''[[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta]]''.
File:HCEA - M45E shotgun.png|The M45E shotgun in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''.
File:Reach_Army_Soldier3.jpg|A female UNSC Army soldier using the M45 Tactical Shotgun.
File:HCEA-M45ETacticalShotgun-FirstPerson.jpg|A first-person view of the M45E Tactical Shotgun in ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.
File:Shotgun sights.jpg|Iron sights.
File:H4_ShotgunSplaser_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the M45D Tactical Shotgun and the [[M6/X Spartan Laser]] in ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:M45TSfiring.jpg|A close-up of a Spartan firing the M45.
File:M45D Shotgun.png|HUD icon of the M45D in ''Halo 4''.
File:Ih_shotgun01b.jpg|Concept art of the M45 TS.
File:H4-M45DTacticalShotgun-HUD-Campaign.png|First-person view of the M45D Tactical Shotgun by [[John-117]] in the ''Halo 4'' campaign.
File:H4-M45DTacticalShotgun-HUD.png|The M45D Tactical Shotgun in action in ''Halo 4'' multiplayer.
File:SG blast.jpg|A [[RECRUIT-class Mjolnir|Recruit]]-clad [[Spartan-IV]] firing the M45D.
File:M45D Hazop.jpg|A [[HAZOP-class Mjolnir|HAZOP]]-clad Spartan-IV wielding the M45D on [[Complex]].
File:H5M45Sprint.png|The M45 in the ''[[Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta]]''.
File:H5G-Buck&M45.png|[[Edward Buck]] firing an M45D during the [[Battle of Kamchatka]] in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:H5G-M45HUD-Campaign.png|First-person view of the M45D by [[Frederic-104]] in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' campaign.
File:H5G-M45zoom-Campaign.png|[[Smart scope]] with the M45D by Fred-104.
File:H5G-BOGHUD-Campaign.png|First-person view of the ''Blaze of Glory'' by Fred-104 in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' campaign.
File:H5G-Fred&M45D.png|Fred-104 with an M45D in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-Fred&BoG.png|Fred-104 with the ''Blaze of Glory'' on ''[[Argent Moon]]''.
File:H5G-M45HUD.png|First-person view of the M45D in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-M45zoom.png|Smart scope with the M45D in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G_ShotgunADS_Concept.jpg|Concept art of the Smart Scope for the shotgun in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-M45SS.png|Third-person view of the M45D engaged in smart scope.
File:H5G-Freebooter&M45.jpg|A [[FREEBOOTER-class Mjolnir|Freebooter]]-clad Spartan-IV using an M45D on [[Pegasus]].
File:H5G-Soldier&M45.png|A Promethean Soldier with an M45D on [[Raid on Apex 7]].
File:H5G-LawgiverHUD.png|First-person view of ''Lawgiver''.
File:H5G-Lawgiver.png|A [[CENTURION-class Mjolnir|Centurion]]-clad Spartan-IV wielding ''Lawgiver''.
File:H5G Tier2 Shotgun.png|Smart-scope Blaze of Glory development image.
File:H5G-BOGHUD.png|First-person view of the ''Blaze of Glory''.
File:H5G-BOG.png|A Spartan-IV wielding the ''Blaze of Glory''.
File:HO-M45.jpg|The M45D in ''[[Halo Online]]''.
File:HTV-Chief shotgun.jpg|John-117 with a M45 Shotgun in ''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==List of appearances==
== List of appearances ==
*''[[Halo: Reach]]'' {{1st}}
* ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' {{1st}}
* ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
** ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp|Boot Camp]]''
* ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
* ''[[Halo 4]]''
** ''[[Spartan Ops]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
* ''[[Halo: Initiation]]''
* ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
* ''[[Halo: Mortal Dictata]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
* ''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach - The Animated Series]]''
* ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
** ''[[Halo 5: Guardians Limited Edition|Limited Edition]]''
* ''[[Halo: Ground Command]]''
* ''[[Halo Mythos]]''
* ''[[Halo: Tales from Slipspace]]''
* ''[[Halo: Retribution]]''
* ''[[Halo: Collateral Damage]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Lone Wolf]]''
*''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]''
**''[[Reckoning]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season Two]]''
**''[[Sanctuary (TV Series)|Sanctuary]]''
 
== Notes ==
{{Ref/Notes}}


==Sources==
== Sources ==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{UNSC Infantry Weapons}}
{{UNSC support weapons}}
[[Category:Shotguns]]
[[Category:Shotguns]]

Latest revision as of 11:46, September 8, 2024

M45 shotgun
HReach-M45TacticalShotgunProfile.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1][2][3]

Model series:

M45

Type:

Tactical shotgun

Variants:

Specifications

Length:

M45D: 112.9 cm (44.4 in)[4]

Width:

M45D: 11.2 cm (4.4 in)[5]

Height:

M45D: 24.4 cm (9.6 in)[4]

Weight:

M45D: 3.6 kilograms (7.9 lb)[4]

Ammunition type:

M296 8 gauge magnum[1][6]

Feed system:

5/6 shells (M45 & M45D);[1][3] 12 shells (M45E)[7]

Operation:

Pump-action

Rate of fire:

~60 RPM (semi-auto)[citation needed]

Effective range:

Short

Service history

In service:

Insurrection
Human-Covenant War
Post-Covenant War conflicts

 

The M45 Tactical Shotgun (formally Tactical Shotgun, 8 Gauge, Pump Action, M45) is a shotgun manufactured by Misriah Armory.[1][8] The M45 is commonly used by the United Nations Space Command alongside the M90 Close Assault Weapon System, a functionally identical copy designed by Weapon System Technology.[8][9]

Overview[edit]

A blueprint of the M45 Tactical Shotgun.

The M45 is used during most close-combat scenarios (particularly in urban areas with heavy enemy occupation), as well as in boarding actions.[1][8] It was used in numerous military operations in urban terrain (MOUT) situations during the Insurrection and was met with widespread acclaim by its users.[8] The M45 later saw widespread use during the Human-Covenant War.[1]

Design details[edit]

The M45 shotgun features a dual tubular, non-detachable magazine and is chambered for 8 gauge ammunition.[1][9] The base model and the M45D may be fed up to six shells whereas the E variant accepts twelve. It is a special-purpose weapon used in any situation where the range of engagement is limited and when over-penetration is not desirable, but maximum stopping power is required. Some variants of the M45 shotgun feature a smart-linked controllable choke.[4]

Variants[edit]

M45D Tactical Shotgun[edit]

The differences between the M45 and the M45D are mostly cosmetic, as the M45D retains the standard six-round internal magazine and firing mechanism. The M45D is unexpectedly comfortable to fire and simple to control, despite the shotgun's powerful 8 gauge cartridge and light weight. This is due to the M45D's magnetorheological recoil dampening system, which is considered very under-appreciated. The M45D shotgun does not feature a smart-linked controllable choke, unlike some M45 variants.[3][4]

M45E Tactical Shotgun[edit]

The M45E boasts greater stopping power than the standard M45 and has a twelve-round internal magazine rather than the standard model's six-round magazine. It features blue iron sights instead of the red sights common to the original model, though it is otherwise superficially identical.[7][8][10]

Smart-scope model[edit]

Unlike past iterations of the M45, the smart-scope capable model is a dual-mode shotgun, capable of semi-automatic or pump-action operation.[11][Note 1] It also features a Projection sight.

Smart-scope variants[edit]

There are also several variants of this specific model:

  • Lawgiver: This variant has increased stopping power, rate of fire, and accuracy compared to the standard smart-scope model.
  • Blaze of Glory: This variant has the Kinetic bolts attachment equipped in order to fire hard-light projectiles with more range and added anti-materiél effect than the Lawgiver. Its entire magazine can also be reloaded with one shell. In addition, its sound effect is the same as that of a smart-scoped LightRifle when fired in first person, and that of a hipfired LightRifle when fired in third person. The Blaze of Glory can also be found as a hidden weapon in the mission Blue Team.[12]
  • Oathsworn: Oathsworn is a series of custom M45 shotguns created by Spartan-II Kelly-087.
  • M45D.

    M45D.

  • M45E.

    M45E.

  • Smart-scope model.

    Smart-scope model.

  • Smart-scope Lawgiver.

    Smart-scope Lawgiver.

  • Smart-scope Blaze of Glory.

    Smart-scope Blaze of Glory.

  • Smart-scope Oathsworn.

    Smart-scope Oathsworn.

Derivatives[edit]

DTM Series[edit]

Main article: DTM series

Due to the M45's popularity among UNSC service members during the Insurrection, Weapon System Technology opted to design a more affordable and more practical copy of the M45.[8] The resulting M90 Close Assault Weapon System is part of the DTM series, which is marketed to the military, law enforcement, and civilians. The standard model of the M90 Close Assault Weapon System is functionally identical to the M45E,[10] possessing a twelve-shell internal magazine, as well as matching the original in range, shot spread, and stopping power.[7] The M90A is based on the original M45 Tactical Shotgun and performs almost identically, despite its longer barrel; it too features a six-round internal magazine.[1] Although the M90 has since dominated both the military and private sector,[8] it is common for UNSC personnel (particularly Marines) to use both weapons concurrently.[1][8][10]

Gameplay[edit]

Halo: Reach[edit]

The M45 shotgun is more powerful than the M90A from Halo 3 and Halo 3: ODST. The pellets have a tighter grouping and the range is superior as well, which also makes it harder to hit multiple enemies at close range. Although this change is hardly noticeable, impact force can be noticed as damage is higher.

The shotgun is very powerful in small confined maps. It should be used as a "corridor sweeper" because of its extreme damage at close range. The Halo: Reach version of this shotgun also has more recoil than its Halo 3 counterpart.

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary[edit]

In Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, the M45E is used in lieu of the M90 CAWS featured in the original game.[7] As the changes between the original weapon and its replacement are superficial, the weapon performs identically to the M90 in Halo: Combat Evolved. The weapon model uses the M45 Tactical Shotgun seen in the Halo: Reach Beta.

Halo 4[edit]

The M45D Shotgun, according to 343 Industries employee Chris King, has "a lot longer range now, less damage falloff, and is quite a bit more powerful than say the Reach version overall." In terms of relative firepower, the shotgun is a one-shot kill weapon and should be used for close encounters. It is notable for penetrating enemy shields, particularly Elites, and it takes only two shots to kill a Promethean Knight.[3]

Halo 5: Guardians[edit]

The M45 operates similarly to its Halo 4 counterpart, with a few additions; like all weapons in Halo 5: Guardians, it can be smart scoped to increase its accuracy (in this case, tightening its pellet spread with a trade off of increased recoil), its base range is increased, its magazine has been reduced to 5 rounds instead of 6, and its tactical flashlight (previously just an aesthetic part of the weapon's design) is continuously on. The shotgun still features the problem of pellet inconsistency, though, making it ineffective for engagements past 10 meters (33 ft), where the similar but non-hitscan Scattershot may be a better choice. The M45 is the preferred weapon of Kelly-087.

Halo: Spartan Assault and Halo: Spartan Strike[edit]

The M45D Shotgun has an extremely short range though significant spread; however, it inflicts massive damage at point-blank range, enough to kill an Elite Major in one shot. The weapon's ammo is capped at 30. Due to its extremely short range, it is not recommended to fight Brute Chieftains with this weapon.

Non-canon and dubious canon appearances[edit]

Silver Timeline[edit]

HTV-SilverTeam logo.png
 This article contains information about the Silver Timeline, and is not a part of the established Halo canon.

M45 Tactical Shotguns are used by Silver Team and other UNSC personnel in battles against the Covenant.[13]

Trivia[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to M45 shotgun on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • In the Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta, the shotgun had cyan lights similar to those on the M90. The sights are red in the final game.
  • In Halo: Reach, the M45 is pumped at the end of every Spartan reload animation, whereas Sangheili cycle the action upon drawing the weapon. In reality, doing this with a loaded chamber would eject an unused shell.
  • In the Halo: Reach strategy guide, the silhouette used to mark shotgun spawns points on multiplayer maps appears to be missing their stocks. However, the M45 does not feature a collapsible stock and does not appear in the final version of the game.
  • 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 appear to be M90s in subsequent panels.

Gallery[edit]

  • Concept art of the M45 Tactical Shotgun for Halo: Reach.

    Concept art of the M45 Tactical Shotgun for Halo: Reach.

  • Profile of the M45 TS.

    Profile of the M45 TS.

  • An angled view of the M45 Tactical Shotgun from the Halo: Reach Beta.

    An angled view of the M45 Tactical Shotgun from the Halo: Reach Beta.

  • A side-view of a Mark V(B)-clad Spartan-III wielding the M45 Tactical Shotgun in the Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta.

    A side-view of a Mark V(B)-clad Spartan-III wielding the M45 Tactical Shotgun in the Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta.

  • M45 in Halo: Reach.

    M45 in Halo: Reach.

  • A right side view of the M45 Tactical Shotgun from Halo: Reach.

    A right side view of the M45 Tactical Shotgun from Halo: Reach.

  • A close-up of a Grenadier-clad Spartan-III firing the M45.

    A close-up of a Grenadier-clad Spartan-III firing the M45.

  • A UNSC Army soldier using the M45 Tactical Shotgun.

    A UNSC Army soldier using the M45 Tactical Shotgun.

  • The M45's iron sights.

    The M45's iron sights.

  • A first-person view of a player armed with the M45 Tactical Shotgun.

    A first-person view of a player armed with the M45 Tactical Shotgun.

  • The M45E shotgun in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

    The M45E shotgun in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

  • A first-person view of the M45E Tactical Shotgun in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

    A first-person view of the M45E Tactical Shotgun in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

  • Concept art of the M45D Tactical Shotgun and the M6/X Spartan Laser in Halo 4.

    Concept art of the M45D Tactical Shotgun and the M6/X Spartan Laser in Halo 4.

  • HUD icon of the M45D in Halo 4.

    HUD icon of the M45D in Halo 4.

  • First-person view of the M45D Tactical Shotgun by John-117 in the Halo 4 campaign.

    First-person view of the M45D Tactical Shotgun by John-117 in the Halo 4 campaign.

  • The M45D Tactical Shotgun in action in Halo 4 multiplayer.

    The M45D Tactical Shotgun in action in Halo 4 multiplayer.

  • A Recruit-clad Spartan-IV firing the M45D.

    A Recruit-clad Spartan-IV firing the M45D.

  • A HAZOP-clad Spartan-IV wielding the M45D on Complex.

    A HAZOP-clad Spartan-IV wielding the M45D on Complex.

  • Edward Buck firing an M45D during the Battle of Kamchatka in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Edward Buck firing an M45D during the Battle of Kamchatka in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • First-person view of the M45D by Frederic-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

    First-person view of the M45D by Frederic-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

  • Smart scope with the M45D by Fred-104.

    Smart scope with the M45D by Fred-104.

  • First-person view of the Blaze of Glory by Fred-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

    First-person view of the Blaze of Glory by Fred-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

  • Fred-104 with an M45D in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Fred-104 with an M45D in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Fred-104 with the Blaze of Glory on Argent Moon.

    Fred-104 with the Blaze of Glory on Argent Moon.

  • First-person view of the M45D in Halo 5: Guardians.

    First-person view of the M45D in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Smart scope with the M45D in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Smart scope with the M45D in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Concept art of the Smart Scope for the shotgun in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Concept art of the Smart Scope for the shotgun in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Third-person view of the M45D engaged in smart scope.

    Third-person view of the M45D engaged in smart scope.

  • A Freebooter-clad Spartan-IV using an M45D on Pegasus.

    A Freebooter-clad Spartan-IV using an M45D on Pegasus.

  • A Promethean Soldier with an M45D on Raid on Apex 7.

    A Promethean Soldier with an M45D on Raid on Apex 7.

  • First-person view of Lawgiver.

    First-person view of Lawgiver.

  • A Centurion-clad Spartan-IV wielding Lawgiver.

    A Centurion-clad Spartan-IV wielding Lawgiver.

  • Smart-scope Blaze of Glory development image.

    Smart-scope Blaze of Glory development image.

  • First-person view of the Blaze of Glory.

    First-person view of the Blaze of Glory.

  • A Spartan-IV wielding the Blaze of Glory.

    A Spartan-IV wielding the Blaze of Glory.

  • The M45D in Halo Online.

    The M45D in Halo Online.

  • John-117 with a M45 Shotgun in Halo: The Television Series.

    John-117 with a M45 Shotgun in Halo: The Television Series.

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ While the in-game description of the M45 claims the shotgun is semi-automatic the firearm is always pump-action. However, Edward Buck appears to use the semi-automatic mode in the opening cutscene of the Halo 5: Guardians level "Osiris".

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 177
  2. ^ Halo: Reach
  3. ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint - The Halo Bulletin: 8.8.12
  4. ^ a b c d e Halo Waypoint - Shotgun
  5. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 70
  6. ^ Halo Waypoint - Shotgun
  7. ^ a b c d Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
  8. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary: Library
  9. ^ a b Bungie.net - Halo: Reach - Intel - Ordnance
  10. ^ a b c Data Drop 6
  11. ^ Halo 5: Guardians
  12. ^ Halo 5: Guardians, campaign level Blue Team)
  13. ^ Halo: The Television Series

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List of infantry support weapons in UNSC service
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