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ARC-920 railgun: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|Post}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Weapon Infobox
{{Weapon infobox
|image=[[File:H5G-ARC920.png|300px]]
|image = [[File:H5G-ARC920.png|300px]]
|manufacturer=[[Acheron Security]]
|manufacturer = [[Acheron Security]]{{Ref/Site|Id=Guide|URL=http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/intel/inteldetail/a7b28a89-84c4-4781-9c8d-77620e328a4d/railgun|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Weapons: Railgun|D=01|M=05|Y=2013|LocalArchive=Halo 4 Interactive Guide#Weapons}}{{Ref/Site|Id=GI|URL=http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/05/02/the-arsenal-of-halo-4.aspx|Site=Gameinformer|Page=The Arsenal of Halo 4|D=20|M=12|Y=2022}}{{Ref/Site|Id=Bulletin8812|URL=http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/08/08/The-Halo-Bulletin-8812.aspx|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=The Halo Bulletin: 8.8.12|D=19|M=08|Y=2013}}{{Ref/Book|Id=H4VG|H4EVG|Page=63}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=178}}
|series=
|series =  
|type=[[Railgun]] [[Wikipedia:Carbine|carbine]]
|type = [[Railgun (fiction)|Railgun]] [[Wikipedia:Carbine|carbine]]
|cost=63,405 [[cR]]<ref name="brief">'''Halo 4: Limited Edition''', UNSC ''Infinity'' Briefing Packet</ref>
|cost = 63,405 [[cR]]{{Ref/Generic|Id=brief|[[Infinity Briefing Packet]]}}
|variant=
|variant =  
|service=[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|service = [[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation = [[United Nations Space Command]]
|weight={{Convert|14.9|kg|lb}}<ref name="brief"/>
|weight = {{Convert|14.9|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|brief}}
|length={{Convert|43.6|in|cm}}<ref name="H4VG">'''Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 63''</ref>
|length = {{Convert|43.6|in|cm}}{{Ref/Reuse|Guide}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|brief}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|width={{Convert|2.9|in|cm}}<ref name="H4VG"/>
|width = {{Convert|2.9|in|cm}}{{Ref/Reuse|Guide}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|brief}}
|height={{Convert|12.5|in|cm}}<ref name="H4VG"/>
|height = {{Convert|12.5|in|cm}}{{Ref/Reuse|Guide}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|brief}}
|ammotype=16mm x 65mm [[M645 FTP-HE]]<ref>[http://www.halowaypoint.com/en-US/halo4guide '''Halo 4 Interactive Guide''']</ref>
|ammotype = 16×65 mm [[M645 FTP-HE]]{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|brief}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|feed=1 slug<ref name="Bulletin8812">[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/08/08/The-Halo-Bulletin-8812.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 8.8.12'']</ref>
|capacity = 1 slug{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}{{Ref/Reuse|Bulletin8812}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|operation=[[Wikipedia:Railgun|Electromagnetic linear accelerator]]
|feed =
|rate=Single-shot
|operation = [[Railgun|Electromagnetic linear accelerator]]
|velocity=
|rate = Single-shot
|range=Close to medium
|velocity =
|optics =
|range =  
}}
}}
The '''Asymmetric Recoilless Carbine-920''' ('''ARC-920'''), also known simply as the '''[[Railgun (fiction)|railgun]]''', is a compact-channel linear accelerator weapon used by the [[United Nations Space Command]]. It is designed and manufactured by [[Acheron Security]].{{Ref/Reuse|GI}} The ARC-920 is one of the various limited-production electromagnetic launchers in service with the UNSC, and is widely considered the best among them.{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}


The '''Asymmetric Recoilless Carbine-920''', abbreviated '''ARC-920''' or known simply as the '''railgun''', is a compact-channel linear accelerator weapon used by the [[United Nations Space Command]]. It was designed and manufactured by [[Acheron Security]].<ref name="GI 522012">[http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/05/02/the-arsenal-of-halo-4.aspx '''Game Informer:''' ''The Arsenal of Halo 4'']</ref>
==Overview==
===Design details===
While several lines of handheld infantry-portable [[Railgun (fiction)|railgun]] weapon systems have been in full production for decades,{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}} the ARC-920 railgun is a result of scientific breakthroughs following the [[Human-Covenant War]] that allowed for portable, hand-held, electromagnetic launcher systems to be used in combat. The ARC-920's disposable power cell and ferric-shelled [[M645 FTP-HE]] projectile has dramatically decreased the weapon's total mass. Despite the ARC-920's lighter weight over previous models, it is still too heavy and cumbersome for general use by non-[[Human augmentation|augmented]] personnel.{{Ref/Site|Id=universe|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/railgun|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Railgun|D=30|M=09|Y=2021}} Overall, it is widely considered to be the best entry into the handheld railgun market.{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}}


==Design details==
The ARC-920 uses a pair of parallel conducting rails to accelerate its projectiles. A large electric current flows from one rail into the projectile and then to the other rail; the electromagnetic effects of this interaction accelerate the projectile to an immense speed. The rifle requires a brief charging period before firing high-explosive rounds accelerated to an incredible speed.{{Ref/Site|Id=bulletin52512|URL=http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/05/25/The-Halo-Bulletin-52512.aspx|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=The Halo Bulletin: 5.25.12|D=30|M=04|Y=2013}} The explosive yield contained in the round adds to the kinetic force of the impact, making the weapon effective against both infantry and armor.{{Ref/Reuse|GI}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4VG}} If the charge is held too long, the weapon will fire automatically{{Ref/Game|Id=REQRailgun|H5G|List of REQ cards|REQ card|Detail=Railgun|Quote=Powerful single-shot coilgun that requires a short charge cycle before firing. Will automatically fire if the charge is held for too long.}} - an issue alleviated in later production models and variants in the ARC-920 line.{{Ref/Reuse|REQArclight}}
The ARC-920 railgun is a result of scientific breakthroughs following the [[Human-Covenant War]] that allowed for portable, hand-held, electromagnetic launcher systems to be used in combat. The ARC-920's disposable power cell and ferric-shelled [[M645 FTP-HE]] projectile has dramatically decreased the weapon's total mass. Despite the ARC-920's lighter weight over previous models, it is still too heavy and cumbersome for general use by non-[[Human augmentation|augmented]] personnel.<ref name="universe">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/railgun '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Railgun'']</ref>


The ARC-920 uses a pair of parallel conducting rails to accelerate its projectiles. A large electric current flows from one rail into the projectile and then to the other rail; the electromagnetic effects of this interaction accelerate the projectile to an immense speed. The rifle requires a brief charging period before firing high-explosive rounds accelerated to an incredible speed.<ref name="bulletin52512">[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/05/25/The-Halo-Bulletin-52512.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 5.25.12'']</ref> The explosive yield contained in the round adds to the kinetic force of the impact, making the weapon effective against both infantry and armor.<ref name="GI 522012"/> The weapon lacks a scope.<ref name="bulletin52512"/> The ARC-920 is one of the various limited-production electromagnetic launchers in service with the [[UNSC Armed Forces]], and the ARC-920 is widely considered the best among them.<ref name="universe"/>
The weapon lacks a scope or any form of optical magnification.{{Ref/Reuse|bulletin52512}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


==Variants==
===Variants===
*'''Whiplash''': The ''Whiplash'' features a faster charge cycle, two rounds per magazine, and projectiles fitted with a proximity airburst fuse.<ref name="H5G">'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'''</ref>
* '''[[Whiplash]]''': The ''Whiplash'' is an improved variant which features a faster charge cycle, two rounds per magazine, and projectiles fitted with a proximity airburst fuse.{{Ref/Game|Id=REQWhiplash|H5G|List of REQ cards|REQ card|Detail=Whiplash|Quote=Acheron Security has recently made great strides in developing compact fast-discharge energy cells and miniaturized sensors. Improved Railgun featuring a faster charge cycle, multiple shots per magazine, and projectiles fitted with proximity airburst fuse.}}
*'''Arclight''': The ''Arclight'' fires armor-piercing high-explosive rounds. While it takes longer to charge the weapon the charge can be held indefinitely.<ref name="H5G"/>
* '''[[Arclight]]''': The ''Arclight'' is an advanced variant that fires armor-piercing high-explosive rounds capable of piercing through multiple targets at once. While it takes longer to charge the weapon, the charge can be held indefinitely.{{Ref/Game|Id=REQArclight|H5G|List of REQ cards|REQ card|Detail=Arclight|Quote=Those who can't acquire super-soldiers acquire super-weapons instead. Advanced Railgun firing armor-piercing high-explosive [APHE] projectiles. Shots take longer to charge, but can be held indefinitely.
<gallery>
}}
File:Halo 5 Whiplash.png|Whiplash
* '''Extractor''': This Railgun has a unique interior green glow.<ref name="HW2">''[[Halo Wars 2]]'', [[Blitz]] in-game unit</ref>
<gallery class=center>
File:H5G RailgunW.png|Whiplash.
File:Halo 5 Whiplash.png|Arclight.
File:HW2 Extractor Raingun.png|Extractor
</gallery>
</gallery>


== Gameplay ==
== Gameplay ==
Compared to the [[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle|Spartan Laser]], the ARC-920's charging time is half the duration and deals less damage to vehicles. In addition, the travelling time for a fired shot is almost instantaneous<ref name="bulletin52512"/>(though still markedly slower than most ballistic, [[hard light]], and laser weapons in the game, which are hitscan). In Campaign and Spartan Ops, the charging time is longer than in War Games.
Compared to the [[M6 Spartan Laser|Spartan Laser]], the ARC-920's charging time is half the duration and deals less damage to vehicles. In addition, the traveling time for a fired shot is almost instantaneous,{{Ref/Reuse|bulletin52512}} though still markedly slower than most ballistic, [[hard light]], and laser weapons in the game, which are hitscan. In Campaign and Spartan Ops, the charging time is longer than in War Games.


===Advantages===
=== Advantages ===
The railgun is extremely powerful and can kill Spartans and all but the highest-ranking Knights and Elites with one shot. It is also very accurate at short and medium distances.
The railgun is extremely powerful and can kill Spartans and all but the highest-ranking [[Promethean Knight]]s and [[Sangheili|Elites]] with one shot. It is also very accurate at short and medium distances.


===Disadvantages===
=== Disadvantages ===
The railgun must be charged before firing, which is a disadvantage on the battlefield. It can only fire one slug before reloading and is weak against vehicles. Its lack of scope coupled with its narrow blast radius make it difficult to aim, limiting mostly to firing at stationary targets.
The railgun must be charged before firing, which is a disadvantage on the battlefield. It can only fire one slug before reloading and is weak against vehicles. Its lack of scope coupled with its narrow blast radius make it difficult to aim, limiting mostly to firing at stationary or slow-moving targets.


=== Changes from ''Halo 4'' to ''Halo 5: Guardians'' ===
* Can now be zoomed in via [[Spartan abilities|Smart Scope]], which activates the weapon's [[Projection sight]].
* Like the [[M70 Gauss cannon|Gauss turret]], it now has hitscan properties.
* Maximum reserve ammunition increased from 5 to 13.
* Projectile weakness against vehicles has been removed, leaving it an all around effective anti-vehicle weapon.
* Charge time is now the same in the campaign as in multiplayer.
* If the [[Halo 5: Guardians skulls#Grunt Birthday Party|Grunt Birthday Party]] skull is on, the railgun can now trigger the effects of said skull with headshots to [[Unggoy|Grunts]].


===Changes from ''Halo 4'' to ''Halo 5: Guardians''===
=== Changes from ''Halo Wars 2'' ===
*Can now be zoomed in via [[Spartan abilities|Smart Scope]].
* [[August-099|August]] is the only one that wields an actual Railgun. Despite it being the standard Railgun, she shoots it twice in some occasions.
*Like the [[Gauss turret]], it now has hitscan properties.
* The Railgun does less damage.
*Maximum ammunition increased from 5 to 13.
* [[Extractor Marines]] wield Railguns in [[Blitz]], the weapon can "siphon" enemies' health and give it to the user & having a higher rate of fire.
*Projectile weakness against vehicles has been removed, leaving it an all around effective anti-vehicle weapon.


==Trivia==
== Trivia ==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of ARC-920}}
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of ARC-920}}
*The ARC-920 was inspired by a piece of ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' concept art.
* Canonically, a magnetically accelerated projectile would move at many times the speed of sound. However, for the sake of balance, the railgun's projectiles move at a much slower subsonic speed in gameplay.
*Canonically, a magnetically accelerated projectile would move at many times the speed of sound. However, for the sake of balance, the railgun's projectiles move at a much slower subsonic speed in gameplay.
* Despite being a railgun, the rings that form around the barrel when charging, as well as the [[Railgun Kill]] medal depicting a projectile going through rings, seem more indicative of a coilgun.
*Despite being a railgun, the rings that form around the barrel when charging, as well as the [[Railgun Kill]] medal depicting a projectile going through rings, seem more indicative of a coilgun.
** In addition, the weapon's REQ card in ''Halo 5: Guardians'' identifies it as a coilgun.{{Ref/Reuse|REQRailgun}}
**In addition, the weapon's REQ card in Halo 5: Guardians incorrectly states that it is a coilgun.
* Even though the weapon's name implies a lack of recoil, a railgun or coilgun should still produce substantial recoil.
*This weapon's name may be a reference to the [[w:c:masseffect:M-920_Cain|M-920 Cain]], a railgun in the ''Mass Effect'' series. In addition, the number 920 is a reference to the number [[Seven|7]] (9-2-0=7)
*The ARC-920's REQ card in ''Halo 5: Guardians'' refers to it being a coilgun despite being a railgun.<ref name="H5G"/>
{{Clear}}


==Gallery==
== Gallery ==
=== Concept art and illustrations ===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Army compilation 2.png|The ''Halo: Reach'' concept art that inspired the ARC-920.
File:H4-Concept-ARC920Railgun.jpg|Concept art of the ARC-920 railgun for ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H4-Concept-ARC920Railgun.jpg|Concept art of the ARC-920 railgun for ''[[Halo 4]]''.
File:H4 BR85andRailgun Concept.jpg|Concept art of the ARC-920 and a [[BR85HB battle rifle]].
File:H4-Concept-ARC920Railgun-Slug.jpg|Concept art of the ARC-920's reloading mechanism in ''Halo 4''.
File:H4-Concept-ARC920Railgun-Slug.jpg|Concept art of the ARC-920's reloading mechanism in ''Halo 4''.
File:chief_ARC.jpg|Concept art of [[John-117|Master Chief]] with the ARC-920.
File:H4_JohnRailgun_Concept.jpg|Concept art of [[John-117|Master Chief]] with the ARC-920.
File:Halo4-MasterChief-ARC920.png|John-117 wielding the ARC-920.
File:H4-ARC920-Schematic.jpg|A schematic of the railgun.
File:Battle for the Moon.png|[[Sarah Palmer]] wielding an ARC-920 against [[Merg Vol]] in ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''.
File:Jackknife.png|Spartan Newman firing an ARC-920 during the [[Battle of Ealen IV]] in ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''.
File:August-099.png|Concept art of [[August-099]] using an ARC-920 for ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
</gallery>
=== ''Halo 4'' ===
<gallery>
File:ARC-920 HUD.png|HUD icon of the ARC-920 in ''Halo 4''.
File:H4-ARC920Railgun.png|The ARC-920 in ''Halo 4''.
File:H4-ARC920Railgun.png|The ARC-920 in ''Halo 4''.
File:Halo4-MasterChief-ARC920.png|A render of John-117 wielding the ARC-920.
File:H4-ARC920Railgun-RightSide.png|A right side view of the ARC-920 railgun.
File:H4-ARC920Railgun-RightSide.png|A right side view of the ARC-920 railgun.
File:H4-ARC920-Schematic.jpg|A schematic of the railgun.
File:ARC-920 HUD.png|HUD icon of the ARC-920 in ''Halo 4''.
File:Railgun.png|A [[WARRIOR-class Mjolnir|Warrior]]-clad [[SPARTAN-IV Program|Spartan-IV]] wielding the ARC-920.
File:Railgun.png|A [[WARRIOR-class Mjolnir|Warrior]]-clad [[SPARTAN-IV Program|Spartan-IV]] wielding the ARC-920.
File:H4-ARC920Railgun-FirstPerson.jpg|First-person view of the ARC-920 railgun.
File:H4-ARC920HUD-Campaign.png|First-person view of the ARC-920 by John-117 in the ''Halo 4'' campaign.
File:H4-ARC920Railgun-FirstPerson.jpg|First-person view of the ARC-920 railgun in ''Halo 4''{{'}}s multiplayer.
File:RG reload.jpg|Closeup view of the ARC-920 being reloaded.
File:RG reload.jpg|Closeup view of the ARC-920 being reloaded.
File:M645 loading.jpg|Reloading an ARC-920.
File:M645 loading.jpg|Reloading an ARC-920.
Line 79: Line 98:
File:ARC-920_post-launch.jpg|An ARC-920 immediately after discharge.
File:ARC-920_post-launch.jpg|An ARC-920 immediately after discharge.
File:Railgun_slug.jpg|An M645 round being fired.
File:Railgun_slug.jpg|An M645 round being fired.
File:Battle for the Moon.png|[[Sarah Palmer]] wielding an ARC-920 against [[Merg Vol]] in ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''.
</gallery>
File:Jackknife.png|Spartan Newman firing an ARC-920 during the [[Battle of Ealen IV]] in ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''.
=== ''Halo 5: Guardians'' ===
File:H5G-ARC920HUD.png|First-person view of the ARC-920 in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
<gallery>
File:H5G-ARC920zoom.png|Smart scope with the ARC-920
File:H5G-Fred&ARC920.png|[[Frederic-104]] charging up an ARC-920.
File:H5G-ARC920HUD-Campaign.png|First-person view of the ARC-920 by Fred-104 in the ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' campaign.
File:H5G-ARC920zoom-Campaign.png|[[Spartan abilities#Smart Scope/Hover|Smart scope]] with the ARC-920 by Fred-104 in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' campaign.
File:H5G-ARC920 FP melee1.png|First-person view of [[John-117]] performing a melee attack with the ARC-920.
File:H5G-ARC920 FP melee2.png|Ditto, second melee animation.
File:H5G-ARC920 FP charging.png|First-person view of John-117 charging up an ARC-920.
File:H5G-ARC920 FP firing.png|First-person view of John-117 firing at a {{Pattern|Bmur'resh|Shade}} with the ARC-920.
File:H5G-ARC920 FP reloading.png|Reloading the ARC-920.
File:H5G-Linda&ARC920.png|[[Linda-058]] with an ARC-920 on [[Genesis]].
File:H5G-ARC920HUD.png|First-person view of the ARC-920 in the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' multiplayer.
File:H5G-ARC920zoom.png|Smart scope with the ARC-920.
File:H5G-ARC920SS.png|Alternate view of the ARC-920 in smart scope.
File:H5G-ARC920SS.png|Alternate view of the ARC-920 in smart scope.
File:Whiplash.png|REQ Card of the ''Whiplash''
File:H5G-WhiplashHUD.png|First-person view of the ''Whiplash'' on [[Battle of Noctus]].
File:H5G-Whiplash.png|An [[INDOMITABLE-class Mjolnir|Indomitable]]-clad Spartan-IV with ''Whiplash''.
File:Arclight.png|REQ Card of the ''Arclight''
File:H5G-ArclightHUD.png|First-person view of the ''Arclight''.
File:H5G-Arclight.png|A Spartan-IV with ''Arclight''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Videos==
=== ''Halo Wars 2'' ===
<youtube width="300" height="250">g3iJHg-CEX8</youtube>
<gallery>
File:HW2 Extractor Railgun CR.png|The Extractor Railgun in ''Halo Wars 2''..
File:HW2 Extractor gun.png|A in-game look of the Extractor in ''Halo Wars 2''.
</gallery>


==List of appearances==
== List of appearances ==
*''[[Halo 4]]'' {{1st}}
* ''[[Halo 4]]'' {{1st}}
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
** ''[[Spartan Ops]]''
**''[[Infinity Briefing Packet]]''
** ''[[Infinity Briefing Packet]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
* ''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
* ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
* ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
* ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Battle Born]]''
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{C|Poster only}}


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


{{UNSC support weapons}}
{{UNSC support weapons}}
[[Category:Railguns]]

Latest revision as of 15:33, July 8, 2024

ARC-920 railgun
H5G-ARC920.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Acheron Security[1][2][3][4][5]

Type:

Railgun carbine

Cost:

63,405 cR[6]

Specifications

Length:

43.6 inches (111 cm)[1][4][6][5]

Width:

2.9 inches (7.4 cm)[1][4][6]

Height:

12.5 inches (32 cm)[1][4][6]

Weight:

14.9 kilograms (33 lb)[6]

Ammunition type:

16×65 mm M645 FTP-HE[4][6][5]

Capacity:

1 slug[4][3][5]

Operation:

Electromagnetic linear accelerator

Rate of fire:

Single-shot

Service history

In service:

Post-Covenant War conflicts

 

The Asymmetric Recoilless Carbine-920 (ARC-920), also known simply as the railgun, is a compact-channel linear accelerator weapon used by the United Nations Space Command. It is designed and manufactured by Acheron Security.[2] The ARC-920 is one of the various limited-production electromagnetic launchers in service with the UNSC, and is widely considered the best among them.[7][4]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

While several lines of handheld infantry-portable railgun weapon systems have been in full production for decades,[4] the ARC-920 railgun is a result of scientific breakthroughs following the Human-Covenant War that allowed for portable, hand-held, electromagnetic launcher systems to be used in combat. The ARC-920's disposable power cell and ferric-shelled M645 FTP-HE projectile has dramatically decreased the weapon's total mass. Despite the ARC-920's lighter weight over previous models, it is still too heavy and cumbersome for general use by non-augmented personnel.[7] Overall, it is widely considered to be the best entry into the handheld railgun market.[4]

The ARC-920 uses a pair of parallel conducting rails to accelerate its projectiles. A large electric current flows from one rail into the projectile and then to the other rail; the electromagnetic effects of this interaction accelerate the projectile to an immense speed. The rifle requires a brief charging period before firing high-explosive rounds accelerated to an incredible speed.[8] The explosive yield contained in the round adds to the kinetic force of the impact, making the weapon effective against both infantry and armor.[2][4] If the charge is held too long, the weapon will fire automatically[9] - an issue alleviated in later production models and variants in the ARC-920 line.[10]

The weapon lacks a scope or any form of optical magnification.[8][5]

Variants[edit]

  • Whiplash: The Whiplash is an improved variant which features a faster charge cycle, two rounds per magazine, and projectiles fitted with a proximity airburst fuse.[11]
  • Arclight: The Arclight is an advanced variant that fires armor-piercing high-explosive rounds capable of piercing through multiple targets at once. While it takes longer to charge the weapon, the charge can be held indefinitely.[10]
  • Extractor: This Railgun has a unique interior green glow.[12]
  • Whiplash.

    Whiplash.

  • Arclight.

    Arclight.

  • Extractor

    Extractor

Gameplay[edit]

Compared to the Spartan Laser, the ARC-920's charging time is half the duration and deals less damage to vehicles. In addition, the traveling time for a fired shot is almost instantaneous,[8] though still markedly slower than most ballistic, hard light, and laser weapons in the game, which are hitscan. In Campaign and Spartan Ops, the charging time is longer than in War Games.

Advantages[edit]

The railgun is extremely powerful and can kill Spartans and all but the highest-ranking Promethean Knights and Elites with one shot. It is also very accurate at short and medium distances.

Disadvantages[edit]

The railgun must be charged before firing, which is a disadvantage on the battlefield. It can only fire one slug before reloading and is weak against vehicles. Its lack of scope coupled with its narrow blast radius make it difficult to aim, limiting mostly to firing at stationary or slow-moving targets.

Changes from Halo 4 to Halo 5: Guardians[edit]

  • Can now be zoomed in via Smart Scope, which activates the weapon's Projection sight.
  • Like the Gauss turret, it now has hitscan properties.
  • Maximum reserve ammunition increased from 5 to 13.
  • Projectile weakness against vehicles has been removed, leaving it an all around effective anti-vehicle weapon.
  • Charge time is now the same in the campaign as in multiplayer.
  • If the Grunt Birthday Party skull is on, the railgun can now trigger the effects of said skull with headshots to Grunts.

Changes from Halo Wars 2[edit]

  • August is the only one that wields an actual Railgun. Despite it being the standard Railgun, she shoots it twice in some occasions.
  • The Railgun does less damage.
  • Extractor Marines wield Railguns in Blitz, the weapon can "siphon" enemies' health and give it to the user & having a higher rate of fire.

Trivia[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to ARC-920 railgun on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • Canonically, a magnetically accelerated projectile would move at many times the speed of sound. However, for the sake of balance, the railgun's projectiles move at a much slower subsonic speed in gameplay.
  • Despite being a railgun, the rings that form around the barrel when charging, as well as the Railgun Kill medal depicting a projectile going through rings, seem more indicative of a coilgun.
    • In addition, the weapon's REQ card in Halo 5: Guardians identifies it as a coilgun.[9]
  • Even though the weapon's name implies a lack of recoil, a railgun or coilgun should still produce substantial recoil.

Gallery[edit]

Concept art and illustrations[edit]

Halo 4[edit]

  • HUD icon of the ARC-920 in Halo 4.

    HUD icon of the ARC-920 in Halo 4.

  • The ARC-920 in Halo 4.

    The ARC-920 in Halo 4.

  • A render of John-117 wielding the ARC-920.

    A render of John-117 wielding the ARC-920.

  • A right side view of the ARC-920 railgun.

    A right side view of the ARC-920 railgun.

  • A Warrior-clad Spartan-IV wielding the ARC-920.

    A Warrior-clad Spartan-IV wielding the ARC-920.

  • First-person view of the ARC-920 by John-117 in the Halo 4 campaign.

    First-person view of the ARC-920 by John-117 in the Halo 4 campaign.

  • First-person view of the ARC-920 railgun in Halo 4's multiplayer.

    First-person view of the ARC-920 railgun in Halo 4's multiplayer.

  • Closeup view of the ARC-920 being reloaded.

    Closeup view of the ARC-920 being reloaded.

  • Reloading an ARC-920.

    Reloading an ARC-920.

  • An M645 round in the barrel.

    An M645 round in the barrel.

  • An ARC-920 immediately after discharge.

    An ARC-920 immediately after discharge.

  • An M645 round being fired.

    An M645 round being fired.

Halo 5: Guardians[edit]

  • Frederic-104 charging up an ARC-920.

    Frederic-104 charging up an ARC-920.

  • First-person view of the ARC-920 by Fred-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

    First-person view of the ARC-920 by Fred-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

  • Smart scope with the ARC-920 by Fred-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

    Smart scope with the ARC-920 by Fred-104 in the Halo 5: Guardians campaign.

  • First-person view of John-117 performing a melee attack with the ARC-920.

    First-person view of John-117 performing a melee attack with the ARC-920.

  • Ditto, second melee animation.

    Ditto, second melee animation.

  • First-person view of John-117 charging up an ARC-920.

    First-person view of John-117 charging up an ARC-920.

  • First-person view of John-117 firing at a Bmur'resh-pattern Shade with the ARC-920.

    First-person view of John-117 firing at a Bmur'resh-pattern Shade with the ARC-920.

  • Reloading the ARC-920.

    Reloading the ARC-920.

  • Linda-058 with an ARC-920 on Genesis.

    Linda-058 with an ARC-920 on Genesis.

  • First-person view of the ARC-920 in the Halo 5: Guardians multiplayer.

    First-person view of the ARC-920 in the Halo 5: Guardians multiplayer.

  • Smart scope with the ARC-920.

    Smart scope with the ARC-920.

  • Alternate view of the ARC-920 in smart scope.

    Alternate view of the ARC-920 in smart scope.

Halo Wars 2[edit]

  • The Extractor Railgun in Halo Wars 2..

    The Extractor Railgun in Halo Wars 2..

  • A in-game look of the Extractor in Halo Wars 2.

    A in-game look of the Extractor in Halo Wars 2.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d Halo Waypoint, Halo 4 Interactive Guide - Weapons: Railgun (Retrieved on May 1, 2013) [local archive] [external archive]
  2. ^ a b c Gameinformer, The Arsenal of Halo 4 (Retrieved on Dec 20, 2022) [archive]
  3. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, The Halo Bulletin: 8.8.12 (Retrieved on Aug 19, 2013) [archive]
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 63
  5. ^ a b c d e Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 178
  6. ^ a b c d e f Infinity Briefing Packet
  7. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Railgun (Retrieved on Sep 30, 2021) [archive]
  8. ^ a b c Halo Waypoint, The Halo Bulletin: 5.25.12 (Retrieved on Apr 30, 2013) [archive]
  9. ^ a b Halo 5: Guardians, REQ card: Railgun "Powerful single-shot coilgun that requires a short charge cycle before firing. Will automatically fire if the charge is held for too long."
  10. ^ a b Halo 5: Guardians, REQ card: Arclight "Those who can't acquire super-soldiers acquire super-weapons instead. Advanced Railgun firing armor-piercing high-explosive [APHE] projectiles. Shots take longer to charge, but can be held indefinitely."
  11. ^ Halo 5: Guardians, REQ card: Whiplash "Acheron Security has recently made great strides in developing compact fast-discharge energy cells and miniaturized sensors. Improved Railgun featuring a faster charge cycle, multiple shots per magazine, and projectiles fitted with proximity airburst fuse."
  12. ^ Halo Wars 2, Blitz in-game unit

v • d • e
 
List of infantry support weapons in UNSC service
Anti-vehicle weapons
Railguns ARC-920 railgun (Arclight • Whiplash)
M6 Spartan Lasers M6/E ( Endgame • Selene's Lance) • M6/R • M6/V • M6/X
Rocket launchers and recoilless rifles Hydra MLRS (MLRS-1 (Typhon • Echidna) • MLRS-2 (Pursuit)) • M149 Magellan • M19-B SAM • M41 SPNKR (M41B • M41D (Tracker) • SPNKr EM • SPNKr EX • SPNKr Prime) • M57 Pilum (Ad Victoriam • High Five) • STMPr • SGM-151 series (LAU-65D missile pod • LAU-1810 missile launcher)
Light machine guns M67 LAW • M328 LMG • M739 SAW (Appetite for Destruction • The Answer)
Medium machine guns M231 MMG
Heavy machine guns AIE-486H • HMG-38 HMG • M43 HMG • M199 HMG • M247 series (M247H (Etilka • M247 GPMG) • M247T) • M413 HMG
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