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M90 shotgun: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|H1|H2|H3|HW|H3R|FOR|TF|FS|GOO|HGN}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Ratings}}
{{Disambig header|the shotgun featured in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' and ''[[Halo 2]]''|the shotgun featured in ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST|ODST]]''|M90A shotgun}}
{{Weapon
{{Weapon infobox
|image=[[Image:M90A CAWS.jpg|300px]]
|image=[[File:H2A M90Shotgun.png|300px]]
|name=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
|name=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
|manufacturer= [[Weapon System Technologies]]
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technology]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=173}}
|model=[[DTM Series]]-'''M90 CAWS'''
|series=[[DTM series]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}
|type=Close Assault Weapons System
|type=Pump-action shotgun{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
|cost=cR. 2200
|cost=
|size=Handheld, Two-Handed
|variant=[[M90A shotgun]]
*M90:
|service=*[[Insurrection]]
**Length: 118.3 centimeters
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*M90A:
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
**Length (o/a):123.9 cm (48.8 in.)
|length={{Convert|46.5|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**Length (barrel):61 cm (24 in.)
|width=
**Weight (empty):5.4 kg (11.9 lbs)
|height=
**Weight (loaded): 5.8 kg (12.8 lbs)
|weight=
| damage per hit=*Instant kill (Close range)
|ammotype=[[8-Gauge Magnum|M296 8-Gauge Magnum]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
*Low-medium (medium ranges)
|capacity=
*None (long range)
|feed=12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
| magazine= 8 gauge magnum (3.5”)
|operation=[[wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
*Earlier models: 12 Shells
|rate=
*M90A: 6 Shells
|velocity=
| maxammo=
|optics=
| fire=Pump Action
|range=
| ammotype=[[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell]]
| operation=Manual Pump-Action
| rate of fire= 1.5 shell/second
| velocity=300-400 m/s (980-1300 f/s)
| accuracy=Low to Medium
| range=Short to Short-Medium Range
15 metres (Halo 2)
20 metres (Halo 3)
95 metres (Halo: CE)
| era=
| counterpart=
| counterweapon=  
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
}}
}}
{{Quote|I believe that the sound of racking the pump of a shotgun is universally recognized as ‘kiss your ass goodbye’.| Unknown Marine}}
The '''M90 Close Assault Weapon System''' (CAWS),{{Ref/Book|Id=ENC324|Enc11|Page=324}} 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|ENC324}} It is a military variant of the prolific [[DTM series]] of shotguns from [[Weapon System Technology]].{{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}}
The '''M90 Close Assault Weapon System'''<ref>http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun</ref><ref>[[The Art of Halo]]</ref> (abbreviated '''M90 CAWS'''), is the [[United Nations Space Command]]'s primary shotgun and is one of the most lethal infantry weapons used by front line forces.


==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 main UNSC close combat [[weapon]], packing extreme firepower at close range. It can kill almost any enemy in one hit if every single pellet makes contact, and can usually kill up to three [[Covenant]] [[Grunts]] with only one blast at a similar distance. It is often wielded in urban conditions, where the tight spaces are conducive to the shotgun's wide spray. The shotgun also makes a perfect defensive weapon to fend off Covenant boarding parties inside warships, and is particularly effective against the [[Flood]] due to the tendency of Flood forms to close in and melee their targets.  


===Ammunition===
It has numerous nicknames, including '''The Hammer''', '''Deck Clearer''', '''Mop''', '''Broom''', '''Universal Translator''', '''Boomstick''', '''Hick Stick''', '''Thunderer''', '''Betsy''', '''Equalizer''', '''Waster''', and the '''Okay-47'''.{{Ref/Reuse|ENC324}}
[[Image:The_round.jpg|thumb|left|200px|The shell is being discarded from the shotgun. Note the hippo and the 8 GAUGE MAG written on its side.]]
{{Main|Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell}}
The M90 Shotgun uses the [[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell|Soellkraft 8 Gauge magnum shotgun Shell]]. This is an incredibly large round, not used by any modern military, but recoil has been said to be relatively low,<ref>http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun</ref> so technology must have advanced enough to suppress the recoil. The shells have a hippo on the side in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. The shotgun in ''Halo 3'' has only 6 shells per magazine, a downsize from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 2'''s 12.


===Influence===
==Overview==
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.
===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}}


===Advantages===
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}}
[[Image:1211479389 Shotty Discharge.jpg|thumb|A close-up of the M90 discharging a shell.]]
Since the Shotgun fires 15 spreading pellets per close-range shot, the combined relative force of each relatively weak pellet does a significant amount of damage. Its high damage potential makes it effective against almost any Covenant unit even the [[Hunter]], if shot in its exposed back, but only if the player can get close enough to achieve a substantial placement of shot.


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 one shot, and a group of [[Infection Forms]] with one 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 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, although this is the weapon to use against the Energy Sword in close combat. The only counter weapons at close range are the Energy Sword, and the [[Sniper Rifle]]. Probably one of the most effective ways to fight is to fire one shell at very close range and immediately after that, melee. You can do this by basically pressing both the right trigger and the B button at the same time with only a slight pause between pressing the buttons. The shell will usually take out your opponent's shield leaving him with basically no health and the melee will most likely kill him. It also has a small lunge ability like the sword. In addition, it is very effective to wait around corners with this weapon to kill anyone that comes around. This is an easy way to get a killing spree and shotgun spree.
===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}}


===Disadvantages===
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}}
While highly effective at close range, at longer ranges it is rendered useless. The shotgun's pattern is extremely loose, and fans out quickly, thus at farther ranges when you fire the shotgun, only one or two pellets out of the 15 might hit.  Also, the time needed to reload can make fighting at long range even more difficult due to the fact that it reloads slow, especially without cover to hide behind. The average reload time for a Shotgun is about 9 seconds, which is 9 seconds that makes you very vulnerable and a perfect target for the enemy. As compensation for this fault, a medium or long range weapon like the [[Battle Rifle]] or the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' [[M6D Personal Defense Weapon System|M6D Pistol]] will make up for the Shotgun's medium to long range damage problem, and reloading can be fixed by being able to fire a shot at any time while the gun is reloading.


==Models==
===Performance===
Not much has changed in the shotgun's design since its conception. The weapon's power lies in the great stopping power of its quad-ought, or 0000, ammunition load, which, while extremely powerful in close-quarters combat, is not useful at medium-range and cannot be used for long-range.
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=}}
===M90 Mk I===
[[Image:M90 Shotgun.jpg|150px|thumb|left|The M90 Mk I, the model used in [[Halo:CE]].]]
The first model presented in the [[Halo]] series, introduced in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and it is unarguably the strongest version. It contained 12 shells at a time, and the player could carry up to 60 more shells for a total of 72 shells. It had the longest and most realistic of the series effective range of all the three models, and its fifteen tungsten pellets could kill, weaken or injure targets at short to medium ranges. Although it is more likely to kill a closer ranged enemy as the shotgun is weak on further distanced enemies, the shotgun could also kill nearly any infantry target at point blank range. It even had the 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. To melee, the player swings the Shotgun up and brings the butt of the weapon on someone's head/front. While this looks deadly, it is a medium-slow melee. If the player fires the entire magazine or if the player picks up a Shotgun without a full magazine and fires it empty, the character model will rack the shotguns pump after reloading, although most players usually opted to reload after every shot. This version of the M90 shotgun had a quicker reload than the Mk. II model.  


The M90 Mk. I shotgun was arguably the best anti-Flood weapon in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. Using it, players could engage multiple Flood targets at point blank, close, and even medium range, although each individual shot's effectiveness varied greatly. However, this model shotgun was a guaranteed kill at close range, and players came to rely heavily on this weapon in the later stages of the first Halo game.
==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]],{{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}}


===M90 Mk II===
==In-game information==
[[Image:M90 Mk II Shotgun.jpg|150px|thumb|left|The M90 Mk II, this is the model used in [[Halo 2]].]]
===Visual depictions===
The second model, the '''M90 Mk II''', was used in ''[[Halo 2]]''. It changed significantly from the Mk I. Its appearance slightly changed, most notably with the green [[Iron Sights]] instead of blue and the stock's shape. The melee is much faster than the Mk I's, swinging the Shotgun horizontally instead. Its performance changed as well. It could not kill targets at more than a few feet away, though a quick shoot-[[melee]] combo would usually kill an enemy very quickly. It does absolutely no damage at longer ranges. The shotgun was only very effective at very close range, and the player only carried 36 spare shells for a total of 48 shells, unlike the 72 shells like the Shotgun in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. Unlike the previous version, it had almost no stopping power when used against vehicles, and like before, with the range decrease, its effectiveness against the Flood was reduced slightly. It probably took this change as [[Bungie]] introduced the [[Energy Sword]] as a usable weapon, and wanted to "even the odds". It never cocked after reloading. It was also extremely effective against berserking [[Brutes]].
[[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]]''.


===M90A===
==Trivia==
[[Image:H3 Shotgun.jpg|left|150px|thumb|The latest model, the M90A, which is used in [[Halo 3]].]]
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
The newest model, the '''M90A''', is used in ''Halo 3''. There are a variety of graphical and gameplay changes from the previous models. The blue iron-sights have been reintroduced, it has a longer barrel and a [[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 or 5 loads for a total of 36 shells, as opposed to the first version's 72, or ''Halo 2'''s 48 probably, like Halo 2's Mk II, this change was most likely made for balance reasons, due to the addition of the Gravity Hammer as a usable weapon. To make up for this, its effective range is far greater than the M90 Mk II, as it can kill targets at two or even three times the range, depending on their health. This variant of the Shotgun also appears bulkier and stronger than its ''Halo Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 2'' relatives. The action is always cycled after reloading, despite the fact that this would eject a shell if any were already loaded.
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the M90 shotgun shares its [[:File:Halo-SniperRifle-Reticule.png|reticule]] with the then-PC-exclusive [[M7057 flamethrower|flamethrower]].
{{clear}}
*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]].
===Similarities/Differences Between The M90 Models===
*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.
[[Image:sm_h3_Shotgun.gif|thumb|A render of the ''M90A''.]]
*The DTM Series 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 M90 series of Shotguns have another feature as well: all have a detachable stock, allowing the shotgun to be used at even closer quarters. If you look carefully at the M90, you can see that the stock is held onto the actual firearm by a "pin and button" system.
*Only the M90A pumps the slide after reloading any number of shells. The Mk. I is only pumped reloading a full 12 shells, which is realistic. The Mk. II doesn't pump at all.
 
==Tactics==
===General Tips===
*A point-blank shot, followed up by a melee attack generally ensures a kill if your opponent survives the original blast.
*To make sure you get an easy kill, crouch down and hide around corners and wait for an enemy to come, this technique is usually referred to as ''[[camping]]'' by most gamers.
*The Melee attack from the Shotgun usually ensures that an active Flood Combat Form will be destroyed, rendering it incapable of being resuscitated by an Infection Form.
*The Shotgun is the best close ranged weapon in terms of visibility. It is hard to see whether it is a shotgun or not, whereas the [[Gravity Hammer]] and the [[Energy Sword]] are easily seen.
*Be sure you always reload after any engagement. The shotgun takes quite a bit of time to reload fully.
*Can be used most effectively with a Carbine, Sniper Rifle, Beam Rifle, or Battle Rifle as a secondary.


===Campaign Recommendations===
==Gallery==
One of the most dominating weapons in the Halo Trilogy, the Shotgun shows its most effective side in ''The Library'' in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and in ''[[Sacred Icon (Level)|Sacred Icon]]'' in ''Halo 2''.  
<gallery>
Despite its very slow reload rate, this is arguably the best weapon against the Flood. Players might want to duck behind somewhere just in case you need to reload .
File:HCE_M90Shotgun_Icon.png|''Halo: Combat Evolved'' M90 icon.
This weapon is easily the best choice in the game for taking out powerful enemies such as groups of [[Flood Combat Forms]], [[Elites]], and Brutes. Even on ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' [[Heroic]] difficulty, it is possible to take out Elites with as few as two shells, and only on [[Legendary]] do the Flood become capable of surviving a direct hit from the shotgun.
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>


In ''Halo 2'', Brutes, [[Councilor]]s 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 the orange fleshy openings on their armor). However, on Legendary difficulty any higher than a [[Minor Elite]]'s shielding and health can withstand a point blank shotgun blast. Beware, for the [[Flood]] can wield shotguns to devastating effect, since they have an extremely long jumping range. ''Halo 2'' Brutes also wield shotguns.
==List of appearances==
 
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
===Multiplayer Recommendations===
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
[[Image:Spartan_with_Shotgun.jpg|thumb|175px|A white Spartan wielding a Shotgun in Halo 3.]]
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
The shotgun's effectiveness in [[multiplayer]] games varies depending on the terrain; indoors and in tight spaces, the shotgun is unbeatable, and some consider it superior 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  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)|Battle Creek]]'' or the map ''[[Rat Race (Level)|Rat Race]]''. There is a 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 afterward, guaranteeing an instant kill. This is often known as the Benton One-Two. This is most effective in ''Halo 3'' due to the more powerful nature of both the shotgun and melee attacks. Also, if a enemy pops right up in your face, the natural way is to get close (probably close enough to touch them) and fire a shell, which, (usually) will end in a instant kill.  Also, most players don't notice a shotgun in enemy hands, and will try to melee you.  When they get close, they've sealed their death. If you encounter someone who snipes you since they know you have the shotgun, get a long range weapon quickly. Shotguns are useless at long range. The shotgun is also the only weapon to be used in the slayer variant [[Tower of Power]]. Best to carry a Battle Rifle with you, or some other medium to long range weapon. If not, have a teammate with you who will have one. Comes in handy for "shotgun combo" which is shooting then bashing immediately after. On the maps [[Snowbound (Level)|Snowbound]] and [[Epitaph (Level)|Epitaph]], many people prefer to wait by shield doors, preparing to ambush and instantly kill those who come through.
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
 
*''[[Halo 2]]''
==[[UNSC]] Remarks==
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
*“The kick is milder with the As—not that it was that bad to begin with—sometimes progress just seems like change, if you catch my meaning.”
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*“The adjustable stock on the M90 works just fine, but I’ve got a soft spot in my heart for the [[DTM/Law Enforcement|DTM/LE]] model—old habits die hard I guess."
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*“I believe that the sound of racking the pump of a shotgun is universally recognized as ‘kiss your ass goodbye’."
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
*“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.”
**''[[Homecoming]]''
*“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?”
**''[[Origins]]''
 
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
==Trivia==
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*In Halo Wars, John Forge uses a M90 Shotgun, though the model isn't revealed.
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
*The M90 has a wide variety of slang associated with it, this includes: ''waste 'em'', ''deck clearer'', and ''universal translator''.<Ref>Sybex Halo PC Strategy Guide Page 19</ref>
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp|Boot Camp]]''
*In ''Halo 3'', a player can make instant kills within close proximity by firing one round of a shotgun and the quickly pressing the B button to melee the vulnerable opponent. It is especially effective when used in conjunction with a [[Power Drain]] or a [[Bubble Shield]]. Also, the Shotgun, next to the Energy Sword, and [[Gravity Hammer]], is useful for killing any known Flood form, even the [[Tank Form]] if you shoot it in the right spot. Moreover, shotgun is slightly more powerful than a [[Mauler]]. At point-blank range, a single shotgun round will kill an enemy, but from a Mauler it will only lower the opponent's shields. However, dual-wielded Maulers are stronger and more effective in close combat situation than a Shotgun, though to melee someone you have to drop a Mauler.
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*The Brute [[Mauler]] may have been developed as a direct result of brutes observing the effects of the human shotgun.
*''[[Know Your Enemy]]''
*[[Brutes]] have rarely been seen wielding a human shotgun in ''Halo 3''.
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 2'', it is said to be a magazine fed weapon, which has caused much speculation as to whether there was a typo. This confusion is a common misconception, however, since Shotguns have an internal, non-detachable magazine which is different than the common assault weapon or sidearms magazine.
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*In ''Halo 3'' Matchmaking there is a gametype called [[Shotty Snipers]], where one starts with a Shotgun and a [[Sniper Rifle]]. This gametype is often verbally abused as many players use the Shotgun instead of the Sniper most of the time. There is also another gametype called "[[ShWATguns]]" in Matchmaking where one starts with only a Shotgun and has no shields.
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*In [[Red vs Blue]]. Sarge seems to wield a shotgun the most
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*In [[Halo: The Flood]], it is stated that the M90 fires a twelve gauge shell, whereas in the Halo game manuals it states that the M90 fires an eight gauge shell.
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''
*The UNSC uses a tube magazine, pump-action shotgun. However, semi-automatics are already far more common in modernized 21st century militaries, with some even capable of fully automatic fire or sporting detachable drum or box magazines.


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


{{UNSC Infantry Weapons}}
{{UNSC support weapons}}
[[Category:Held Weapons]]
[[Category:Shotguns]]
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Halo 3]]
[[Category:Halo 2]]

Latest revision as of 14:58, November 1, 2024

This article is about the shotgun featured in Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 2. For the shotgun featured in Halo 3 and ODST, see M90A shotgun.
M90 Close Assault Weapon System
H2A M90Shotgun.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Weapon System Technology[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 System Technology.[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]

It has numerous nicknames, including The Hammer, Deck Clearer, Mop, Broom, Universal Translator, Boomstick, Hick Stick, Thunderer, Betsy, Equalizer, Waster, and the Okay-47.[5]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

Visual depictions[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

  • 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[edit]

Sources[edit]

  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 c Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 324
  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

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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