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M9 fragmentation grenade: Difference between revisions

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{{Ratings}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Era|H1|H2|H3|FOR|TF|FS|GOO|UP|HGN}}
{{Weapon infobox
{{Weapon
|name=M9 fragmentation grenade
| image=[[Image:Halo3 M9 HE-DP Grenade.jpg|300px]]
|image=[[File:Halo Reach Frag Comparison.png|250px]][[File:H5G-M9.png|300px]]<br>M9 variants (infantry, Spartan, and post-war respectively)
| name=Fragmentation Grenade
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=vis|EVG|Page=75}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=184}}
| manufacturer=
|series=
| model=M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenade
|type=Antipersonnel [[Grenade|hand grenade]]
| type=Grenade
|cost=30[[cR]]{{Ref/Site|Id=bungie|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3fraggrenade|Site=Bungie.net|Page=The M9 Frag Grenade|D=31|M=01|Y=2021|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M9}}
| cost=cR. 30
|variant=See [[#Variants|variants]]
| size=
|service=[[2310]]-present{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
*Diameter: 9.4 cm (3.7 in.)
*[[Insurrection]]
*Weight: .4 kg (.875 lbs)
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
| damage per hit=Very High
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
| magazine=1 grenade
|length-title=Diameter
| maxammo=4 Grenades in Halo CE and Halo 2 (2 in [[Halo 3]])
|length=
| fire=Thrown
;Standard infantry variant
| ammotype=Fragmentation shrapnel
:{{Convert|3.7|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc09|Enc09|Page=317}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc11|Enc11|Page=331|Detail=The 2011 Encyclopedia utilises an illustration of the ''Reach'' up-sized Spartan variant, but retains the statistics for the infantry variant from the original 2009 book.}}{{Ref/Game|Id=CEA|HCEA|Library (feature)|Library|Detail=Frag Grenade - While the model for the grenade in ''Combat Evolved Anniversary'' is ''Halo: Reach''{{'}}s upsized design, the stats reported in the Library reflect the infantry design featured in the original ''Halo''s.}}
*Filler: 19 kg of ComL
;Post-war variant
| operation=
:{{Convert|5.8|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Book|Id=H4EVG|H4EVG|Page=73}}{{Ref/Site|Id=universe|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/frag-grenade|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Fragmentation Grenade|D=13|M=07|Y=2017}}
| rate of fire=Manual
;Spartan variant
| accuracy=Depends On Throw
:{{Convert|8.3|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Site|Id=waypoint|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/Universe/Detail/frag-grenade/410c92c8-fdab-4e96-b312-55f78c2472a1|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=M9 High Explosive-Dual Purpose Antipersonnel Grenade|D=24|M=01|Y=2012|LocalArchive=Archive:Halo Waypoint/2009 to 2014/Universe/Weapons#Frag Grenade}}
| range=Depends On Throw
|width=
*Killing radius: 5 meters (16 ft)
|height=
*Casualty radius: 15 meters (49.5 ft)
;Post-war variant
| era= [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], [[Halo 2]], [[Halo 3]]
:{{Convert|8.1|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us|sigfig=3}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
| counterpart=*Covenant Separatist: [[Type-1 Antipersonnel Grenade]]
|weight=
*Covenant Loyalist: [[Type-2 Antipersonnel Fragmentation Grenade]]
;Infantry variant
| counterwep=
:{{Convert|0.875|lb|kg|disp=flip|sp=us|sigfig=2}}{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
;Post-war variant
:{{Convert|0.9|lb|kg|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
|ammotype-title=Filler
|ammotype=0.19 kilograms (6.7 oz) of [[ComL]]{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}{{Ref/Reuse|CEA}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|capacity=
|feed=
|operation=
|rate=
|velocity=
|optics=
|range-title=Explosive radius
|range=
;Injuries
:{{Convert|49|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}{{Ref/Reuse|CEA}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
;Kill
:{{Convert|16|ft|m|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}{{Ref/Reuse|CEA}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
}}
}}
The [[UNSC]]-issued '''M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenade''' (abbreviated '''M9 HE-DP Grenade'''), also known as the '''Fragmentation Grenade''' or 'Nade' to most players, functions in a manner very similar to contemporary hand grenades. When thrown, a blast bursts the grenade's shell open and sends many small metal fragments flying at high speed, causing damage to [[Energy shields]], [[armor]], and flesh in a nine meter (30ft) radius. In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] and [[Halo 2]], Four of these grenades may be carried at a time. This was reduced to two in [[Halo 3]] due to the presence of 4 grenade types.
{{Article quote|The M9 is a high-explosive, dual-purpose grenade utilized by all branches of the UNSC. Skilled users can bounce the grenade to get hard-to-reach targets and bypass obstacles.{{Ref/Game|HI|[[Forge]] - M9 Frag Grenade description|Quote=The M9 is a high-explosive, dual-purpose grenade utilized by all branches of the UNSC. Skilled users can bounce the grenade to get hard-to-reach targets and bypass obstacles.}}}}
The '''M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose (HE-DP) Antipersonnel Grenade'''{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}{{Ref/Reuse|CEA}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} is the standard-issue hand grenade of the [[United Nations Space Command]]. The weapon is semi-erroneously known as a '''fragmentation grenade''' and the colloquial '''frag'''. Furthermore, the M9 designation technically refers to several models of varying design.{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}} Like most UNSC small arms and explosives, the M9 is produced by [[Misriah Armory]].{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}


==Description==
The grenade has received a number of colourful nicknames among UNSC personnel, including "'''Damage'''", "'''Firecracker'''", "'''Pineapple'''", "'''Blast Beetle'''", "'''Hopper'''", and "'''Croaker'''".{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}
HE-DP stands for High-Explosive Dual-Purpose. The first phrase indicates the grenade uses a high-explosive substance to launch its shrapnel when the grenade explodes, while the second means it can be used against both infantry and vehicles (hence "dual-purpose").  


The grenade has a hard metal casing that is smooth in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], but has a grided surface in [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]]. This griding is most likely used to provide a better grip for the thrower, and would not influence the fragmentation pattern of its shrapnel. Instead, the grenade's outer metal casing, presumably made of steel or another hard metal (such as tungsten) or an alloy, would be blown to pieces when the HE core inside detonates.  
==Overview==
[[File:ReachSchematic - FG.png|200px|thumb|left|A blueprint of the M9 in ''Halo: Reach''.]]
===Design details===
{{Quote|Well it’s a grenade, innit? It blows up.|Anonymous [[E2-BAG/1/7]] serviceman{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}}}
The M9 is a High-Explosive, Dual-Purpose fragmentation grenade widely utilised throughout the UNSC's service branches. The grenade's operating mechanism has been essentially unchanged for centuries,{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}} since it entered service in [[2310]].{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} The designation is used to apply to a number of vastly different grenades created in numerous munitions plants throughout [[Human colonies|colonised space]]; though all examples exhibit broadly similar properties. The grenade's explosive power comes from [[Composition L]],{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/the-new-halo-encyclopedia-is-out-today|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=The New Halo Encyclopedia is Out Today|D=11|M=03|Y=2023}} or "ComL" - an explosive filler inside every M9 grenade with a volume of 190 grams (6.7 ounces). ComL is generally stable until the explosion is triggered,{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}} at which point the exterior casing fragments into roughly 1x5mm shards, and is sent flying in various predetermined directions.{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}


AP FRAG can be viewed on the Halo: Combat Evolved M9's olive casing. AP most likely stands for "anti-personnel", indicating the shrapnel of the grenade can penetrate lightly armoured infantry.  
The M9 is triggered by a simple digital timer fuse, which then detonates a small primer explosive, in turn triggering the ComL to explode and send the shrapnel fragments flying away from the grenade.{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}} The digital timer fuse sits atop the top of the weapon,{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}} with a hardpoint available to allow the grenade to be linked to a serviceman's [[UNSC Marine Corps Battle Dress Uniform|battle dress uniform]] (BDU).{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}


In all Halo games, the grenade must first hit the ground before exploding. In Halo 1, the grenade would not detonate mid-air. In [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]], it would bounce and explode mid-air a moment after bouncing. But in Halo 3, if the grenade was thrown up, and hit a surface going up, it wouldn't explode until it hit the ground. This presumed to be a safety feature, ensuring the grenade would only explode after striking a surface after being thrown, and not in the user's hand.
===Variants===
{{Quote|This is my third tour and I’ve seen action on a half dozen planets—I’ve also seen about five different versions of the M9. Not like em nine eh through em nine ee, but totally different fragmentation grenades called em nine. I guess that’s one of the consequences of being part of a galactic empire [laughter] I said galactic empire!|Anonymous [[E2-BAG/1/7]] serviceman{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}}}
M9 fragmentation grenades come in a number of variants exhibiting great variance in size and shape, depending on their location of manufacture. Despite this, they all exhibit broadly similar performance properties.{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} M9 variants are generally not given unique model designators and are instead all simply considered M9s - even when they share relatively little in common.{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}
*'''Infantry variant''' - a standard-issue variant of the M9 fragmentation grenade used during the [[Human-Covenant War]], measuring {{Convert|3.7|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}} in diameter.{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}
*'''Spartan variant''' - an up-sized variant of the M9 fragmentation grenade intended for use by [[Spartan]] personnel - notably issued to [[Special Warfare Group Three]] forces (in particular [[NOBLE Team]]) during the [[Fall of Reach]].{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}{{Ref/Reuse|CEA}}
*'''Post-war variant''' - a variant of the M9 fragmentation grenade introduced following the end of the Great War.{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
<gallery class="center">
File:H3-M9HEDPFragmentationGrenade.png|The standard infantry variant of the M9.{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}
File:HCE-M9FragGrenade-LargeRender.png|Another M9 grenade variant.
File:HReach-M9FragmentationGrenade.png|The up-sized Spartan variant of the M9, seemingly based on the prior design..{{Ref/Reuse|waypoint}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}
File:H5G-M9.png|The post-war resized M9.{{Ref/Reuse|H4EVG}}{{Ref/Reuse|universe}}
</gallery>


This may explain the lack of a "spoon", or handle, on the Halo 2 and 3 M9 HE-DP grenades. The spoon is a device that is gripped while the grenade is being primed, and ensures it will not explode until after the spoon is released, as it starts the fuse of a grenade as it flies through the air after it is thrown. In Halo 1, the spoon would have negated the need for this Halo 2 safety feature.


It is unknown how the M9 is first primed, but references to pulling a pin on the grenade is mentioned in the Halo novels several times, even though no pin is visible in game play. However, pulling a pin would require two hands, but each version of the grenade has a button on its body. This would most likely be pushed to prime the M9 before tossing it. The pin reference is most likely an inaccuracy on the author's part in the novels, or perhaps just a turn of phrase that has lingered from more primitive grenade types.
==UNSC Remarks==
The M9 was one of the several weapons recorded by Doctor [[Robert McLees (ship designer)|Robert McLees]] in the report [[Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present]].
*''"Grenades are not something you throw just because you see bad guys. Make sure you know where your squad is at, make sure it’s only the bad guys you’re gonna blow up, then chuck the damage."''{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}
*''"This is my third tour and I’ve seen action on a half dozen planets—I’ve also seen about five different versions of the M9. Not like em nine eh through em nine ee, but totally different fragmentation grenades called em nine. I guess that’s one of the consequences of being part of a galactic empire [laughter] I said galactic empire!"''{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}
*''"The grenade detonated directly beneath the Ghost and sent it and the driver tumbling through the air; the remainder of 1st squad dispatched the Brute and secured the enemy vehicle."''{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}
*''"There ain’t a magical wall at fifteen meters—had a hole punched in my cheek at about ninety meters over a year ago back on Ballast. Could’a lost an eye or even been killed. Remember when you hear that call or a thump to keep your head down.”''{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}
*''"...bounced off of the loading ramp and exploded above head level (2.4 meters) killing the Brute SL and disrupting the remaining Grunts."''{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}
*''"Well it’s a grenade innit? It blows up."''{{Ref/Reuse|bungie}}


In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] the fragmentation grenade left a white smoke trail behind it when thrown and would create sparks when it landed after being hurled.
==In-game information==
{{Expand-section}}
The M9 is a staple weapon present in all ''Halo'' games to date. It can be effectively hurled and bounced around corners and travels farther than the [[Covenant]]'s [[Plasma Grenade]] alternative; this can be used to quickly and aptly damage an attacker before he can move away from it, giving you an instant advantage in the close combat situation. It is also harder to see and has a shorter fuse, therefore making it harder to avoid and more useful for killing enemies on foot.  


[[Image:Fragnade.jpg|45px|Halo: Combat Evolved era grenade with "spoon".]]
==Gallery==
[[Image:M9 HE-DP Grenade.jpg|45px|Halo 2 era grenade with electronic spoon.]]
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M9 Grenade}}
[[Image:H3_fragtastics.JPG|45px|Halo 3 era grenade.]]
<gallery>
File:HCE-M9FragGrenade-LargeRender.png|Detail view of an M9 Frag Grenade in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:HCE - M9 Grenade.png|A pair of M9 grenades from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:H2-M9HEDPFragmentationGrenade.png|The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in ''Halo 2''.
File:H3-M9HEDPFragmentationGrenade.png|The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in ''Halo 3''.
File:Fraginair.jpg|A fragmentation grenade in mid-flight.
File:HaloReach - Frag Grenade.png|The M9 Frag Grenade  in the [[Halo: Reach Beta|''Halo: Reach'' Beta]].
File:HReach-M9FragmentationGrenade.png|The M9 Fragmentation Grenade  in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:HReach - M9 Grenade.png|An overview of the M9 Frag Grenade from ''Halo: Reach''.
File:HReach-M9-Grenade-Views1.png|Front and back views of the M9 Frag Grenade from ''Halo: Reach''.
File:HReach-M9-Grenade-Views2.png|Left and right views of the M9 Frag Grenade from ''Halo: Reach''.
File:HR-M9HEDP-FragGrenade-RefChart.jpg|Reference chart of the Fragmentation Grenade in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Halo Reach Frag Comparison.png|A comparison of the M9 Fragmentation Grenade models from ''Halo 3'' and ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Halo4Frag.png|Render of the M9 grenade in ''Halo 4''.
File:H4-M9HEDPGrenades.png|The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in ''Halo 4''.
File:M9 HEDP.png|HUD Icon of the M9 Frag Grenade in ''Halo 4''.
File:H2A M9Frag.png|The M9 in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:Explosion 179.png|Explosion from a frag in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:HINF Frag Toss.png|A Spartan-IV throwing a M9 in ''Halo Infinite''.
</gallery>


==Combat==
==List of appearances==
=== Advantages ===
{{Col-begin}}
This grenade, can be effectively hurled and bounced around corners and travels farther than the [[Plasma Grenade]], this can be used to quickly and aptly damage an attacker before he can move away from it, giving you an instant advantage in the combat situation. It is also harder to see and has a shorter fuse, therefore making it harder to avoid and more useful for killing enemies on foot. In [[Halo: Combat Evolved]], it also seems to have a larger blast radius, than a plasma grenade. It has a further casualty range than the other grenade types in [[Halo 3]]. Also, since it is harder to see, having an enemy run over one by accident can happen more easily than with a bright blue plasma grenade. Also, they are extremely common, as all health packs in Halo: CE have fragmentation grenades beside them and all [[Marines]] carry them.
{{Col-3}}
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[The Mona Lisa]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Covenant|Covenant]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
{{Col-3}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Initiation]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]''
*''[[Hunt the Truth]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[The Hunt Begins]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: Last Light]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Retribution]]''
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Shadows of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Point of Light]]''
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]''
{{Col-3}}
*''[[Halo Infinite]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''
**''[[Solace (TV Series)|Solace]]''
*''[[Halo: The Rubicon Protocol]]''
*''[[Halo: Winter Contention]]''
{{Col-end}}


One of the best tactics to use, is to first throw a Frag, and then simply cut the shieldless opponent down with a weapon of your choice, preferably human due to its effectiveness in taking out flesh (rather than shields).
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}


=== Disadvantages ===
{{UNSC ordnance}}
Unlike the [[Plasma grenade]], this grenade doesn't stick to objects, making it harder to hit vehicles. In [[Halo 3]], it deals slightly less damage than the [[Covenant]] [[Plasma Grenade]] and [[Spike Grenade]]. In addition, if too close, you will be hurt just as much as the opponent. Last but definitely not least; it cannot kill a shielded Elite, Spartan, or Brute, no matter the range. In stark contrast, the Plasma Grenade is a one-hit kill if stuck or lands nearby so you have to be careful when throwing. Also when you throw the grenade the enemy might run to you making the frag grenade throw a useless move.
[[Category:Grenades]]
 
==Tactics==
=== Campaign  ===
The M9 HE-DP Grenade is best used when enemies gather together in tight groups. A well thrown grenade placed in the middle of a squad of [[Elites]] and [[Grunts]] will kill most of the Grunts and damage the [[Elite Personal Energy Shield|Elite's Shields]]; however, a single grenade cannot kill even a [[Minor Elite]], but just damage its shields The only Elites that can be killed with one is a [[Stealth Elite]]. Grunts may also panic and flee making them easy targets for follow up attacks. Frag grenades may be used against [[Jackals]], as their [[Jackal Point Defense Gauntlet|Shields]] will not protect them from the blast. The M9 HE-DP Grenade is also commonly used to disable most land [[vehicles]] with the exception of [[tanks]].
 
There is a useful tactic that can be used to take down a group of [[Grunts]] and [[Elites]]. It requires a frag grenade and a plasma pistol. Throw the frag grenade into a middle of the clump, and then build up an overcharged blast with your plasma pistol. Hit the lead [[Elite]] with the overcharged blast. The overcharge will knock out the [[Elite's]] shield just before the grenade detonates, which should kill the [[Elite]] as well as at least most of the [[Grunts]]. Any grenade can work for this tactic, but a frag is optimal.
[[Image:Fraginair.jpg|thumb|right|A Frag Grenade in mid-flight.]]
 
=== Multiplayer ===
A multipurpose [[weapon]], the fragmentation grenade can be used in corridors, to flush out occupants. The blast will severely damage player's [[Energy Shield|Energy Shields]] allowing for easy follow up attacks. If lobbed under a [[vehicle]], the explosion will either kill or severely injure the occupants. If timed correctly, grenades can be planted in the path of an oncoming vehicle. Most drivers will not be able to react quickly enough, and will most likely be caught in the blast. If you place the grenade under an enemy it will kill them. Note: This is very hard to do and it only works in Halo 2. Another good multiplayer tactic is to throw one at your feet while back-pedalling when an enemy is charging at you. When the grenade detonates, the other person should be in the blast radius of the grenade and be killed; if not, use a headshot on them, as their shields should be down. It can be done with other grenades, but as the frag grenade is the hardest to see, it is unlikely that the other person will dodge it. It also has a bigger blast radius. This is easiest done in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]]. In some maps like [[Snowbound]] and [[Sandtrap]], if a frag is thrown it will stay where it lands given the soft nature of the ground on both maps. This is useful to fight oncoming vehicles, preferably lighter vehicles like Ghosts and Mongooses or even heavier vehicles like Warthogs. One frag grenade is considered as either aid in combat for quick damage before the fight starts, or as a tool to finish off an unshielded opponent. A grenade can be bounced off of a wall to ambush an enemy or ambush your ambushers. Two frags is where this grenade becomes a killer all on its own. Frags are also very handy to kill opponents when used in conjunction with explosive objects, waiting to destroy [[fusion coil]]s with a grenade means the frags damage plus the coils damage would make a very dangerous environment for the target. On [[Narrows]], one useful tactic is at the beginning of the battle, go off the man cannon and throw a grenade onto the middle of the bridge. Usually, people have already advanced on the bridge and have their shields severely disabled or taken out completely. The grenade will then kill them. This is great for getting an easy kill at the beginning of a match. When outside on [[Snowbound]], the grenades don't bounce in the snow; they embed into it. This is semi-useless, but it's something that most people wouldn't know. A tactic done by most players is to clear areas by throwing frags and bouncing them off walls. This is effective in games like [[King of the Hill]] where you can throw grenades into the hill, to force the enemy out or to weaken them for a quick kill. It's best to know the map for bouncing the grenade off walls and objects. Also look for spots above or below your target, to be a little sneaky.
[[Image:1220830461 Frag nade.png|thumb|right|A Frag grenade from [[Halo:CE]].]]
 
==Trivia==
*The cost of a [[Spartan Laser]] is that of 7,895 Frag grenades.{{fact}}
*The grenade can be used for a [[Warthog Jump]].
*These are commonly used for [[grenade jump]]s.
*It is possible to wedge or throw a frag grenade in a vehicle or a Sentinel, though this rarely occurs. If you are attempting this stunt, try the Warthog. For other vehicles, such as the [[Ghost]], the grenade will ''generally'' (no glitches) slip out.
* The Frag Grenade is useful for clearing out corners without going into the crossfire.
*By crouching and looking down if a frag grenade is thrown it will go under the players foot, a good strategy for grenade jumping.
*In Halo 2 if you throw a grenade (when you don't have any) while looking down your torso appears to rise from your hips.
*In [[Halo 2]] and 3 you can shoot frags out of the air. The best weapon to do this is the Battle Rifle. In Halo 2 after it blows up you can see the grenade fly off still in one piece.
*With full shields it is impossible to die from a frag detonation, in [[Halo 2]] and [[Halo 3]] the detonation would knock out shields and armour and sometimes cause blood loss, in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] a fragmentation grenade would knock out the shields and leave only three health bars.
*Shooting the grenade as it is thrown with a Battle Rifle could result in an easy two shot kill (hitting the grenade then finishing with a head shot).
*The Frag Grenade can be used to nab an easy Double Kill, especially in a swords match where two player's shields may be down.
*Using the Frag grenade, one could throw it up a grav lift to prevent "lift campers."
*It is rather difficult, but you can get a frag stuck in a grav lifts gravity stream.
*In Halo 3, if the frag is thrown up and hits a surface, it won’t explode until it lands. This is unusual because once it hits a surface, its supposed to explode a few seconds later.
*It is possible to stick a frag grenade with a plasma grenade if the [[plasma grenade]] is stuck on the players left hand before throwing a frag, eventually throwing the frag with the plasma grenade stuck to it, or if they both simply collide in the air and blow up between the two players (which is very, very unlikely).
*It is possible to "stick" a person with a frag grenade, but it is really difficult. It has to land between their arms so they "cradle" it.
*In Halo 3, according to the game manual, the frag grenade has the highest kill radius (5m), and the highest casualty radius (15m) of all the grenades in the game.
*Marines do not throw these grenades.
 
== References ==
*[http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3fraggrenade Grenade Information]
 
 
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
 
[[Category:UNSC]]
 
[[Category:Weapons]]

Latest revision as of 15:15, February 5, 2024

M9 fragmentation grenade
Halo Reach Frag Comparison.pngH5G-M9.png
M9 variants (infantry, Spartan, and post-war respectively)
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1][2]

Type:

Antipersonnel hand grenade

Cost:

30cR[3]

Variants:

See variants

Specifications

Diameter:

Standard infantry variant
9.4 centimeters (3.7 in)[3][4][5][6]
Post-war variant
15 centimeters (5.8 in)[7][8]
Spartan variant
21 centimeters (8.3 in)[9]

Height:

Post-war variant
20.6 centimeters (8.1 in)[7][8]

Weight:

Infantry variant
0.40 kilograms (0.875 lb)[3][4][5]
Post-war variant
0.41 kilograms (0.9 lb)[8]

Filler:

0.19 kilograms (6.7 oz) of ComL[3][9][1][6][7][8][2]

Explosive radius:

Injuries
15 meters (49 ft)[3][4][5][1][6][9][2]
Kill
4.9 meters (16 ft)[3][4][5][1][6][9][2]
Service history

In service:

2310-present[2]

 
“ The M9 is a high-explosive, dual-purpose grenade utilized by all branches of the UNSC. Skilled users can bounce the grenade to get hard-to-reach targets and bypass obstacles.[10] ”

The M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose (HE-DP) Antipersonnel Grenade[9][6][7][8][2] is the standard-issue hand grenade of the United Nations Space Command. The weapon is semi-erroneously known as a fragmentation grenade and the colloquial frag. Furthermore, the M9 designation technically refers to several models of varying design.[3] Like most UNSC small arms and explosives, the M9 is produced by Misriah Armory.[1]

The grenade has received a number of colourful nicknames among UNSC personnel, including "Damage", "Firecracker", "Pineapple", "Blast Beetle", "Hopper", and "Croaker".[4][5]

Overview[edit]

A blueprint of the M9 in Halo: Reach.

Design details[edit]

"Well it’s a grenade, innit? It blows up."
— Anonymous E2-BAG/1/7 serviceman[3]

The M9 is a High-Explosive, Dual-Purpose fragmentation grenade widely utilised throughout the UNSC's service branches. The grenade's operating mechanism has been essentially unchanged for centuries,[9] since it entered service in 2310.[2] The designation is used to apply to a number of vastly different grenades created in numerous munitions plants throughout colonised space; though all examples exhibit broadly similar properties. The grenade's explosive power comes from Composition L,[11] or "ComL" - an explosive filler inside every M9 grenade with a volume of 190 grams (6.7 ounces). ComL is generally stable until the explosion is triggered,[9] at which point the exterior casing fragments into roughly 1x5mm shards, and is sent flying in various predetermined directions.[3]

The M9 is triggered by a simple digital timer fuse, which then detonates a small primer explosive, in turn triggering the ComL to explode and send the shrapnel fragments flying away from the grenade.[3][1] The digital timer fuse sits atop the top of the weapon,[1][7] with a hardpoint available to allow the grenade to be linked to a serviceman's battle dress uniform (BDU).[7]

Variants[edit]

"This is my third tour and I’ve seen action on a half dozen planets—I’ve also seen about five different versions of the M9. Not like em nine eh through em nine ee, but totally different fragmentation grenades called em nine. I guess that’s one of the consequences of being part of a galactic empire [laughter] I said galactic empire!"
— Anonymous E2-BAG/1/7 serviceman[3]

M9 fragmentation grenades come in a number of variants exhibiting great variance in size and shape, depending on their location of manufacture. Despite this, they all exhibit broadly similar performance properties.[1][2] M9 variants are generally not given unique model designators and are instead all simply considered M9s - even when they share relatively little in common.[3]

  • Infantry variant - a standard-issue variant of the M9 fragmentation grenade used during the Human-Covenant War, measuring 9.4 centimeters (3.7 in) in diameter.[3][9]
  • Spartan variant - an up-sized variant of the M9 fragmentation grenade intended for use by Spartan personnel - notably issued to Special Warfare Group Three forces (in particular NOBLE Team) during the Fall of Reach.[9][1][6]
  • Post-war variant - a variant of the M9 fragmentation grenade introduced following the end of the Great War.[7][8]
  • The standard infantry variant of the M9.[3][9]

    The standard infantry variant of the M9.[3][9]

  • Another M9 grenade variant.

    Another M9 grenade variant.

  • The up-sized Spartan variant of the M9, seemingly based on the prior design..[9][1]

    The up-sized Spartan variant of the M9, seemingly based on the prior design..[9][1]

  • The post-war resized M9.[7][8]

    The post-war resized M9.[7][8]


UNSC Remarks[edit]

The M9 was one of the several weapons recorded by Doctor Robert McLees in the report Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present.

  • "Grenades are not something you throw just because you see bad guys. Make sure you know where your squad is at, make sure it’s only the bad guys you’re gonna blow up, then chuck the damage."[3]
  • "This is my third tour and I’ve seen action on a half dozen planets—I’ve also seen about five different versions of the M9. Not like em nine eh through em nine ee, but totally different fragmentation grenades called em nine. I guess that’s one of the consequences of being part of a galactic empire [laughter] I said galactic empire!"[3]
  • "The grenade detonated directly beneath the Ghost and sent it and the driver tumbling through the air; the remainder of 1st squad dispatched the Brute and secured the enemy vehicle."[3]
  • "There ain’t a magical wall at fifteen meters—had a hole punched in my cheek at about ninety meters over a year ago back on Ballast. Could’a lost an eye or even been killed. Remember when you hear that call or a thump to keep your head down.”[3]
  • "...bounced off of the loading ramp and exploded above head level (2.4 meters) killing the Brute SL and disrupting the remaining Grunts."[3]
  • "Well it’s a grenade innit? It blows up."[3]

In-game information[edit]

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The M9 is a staple weapon present in all Halo games to date. It can be effectively hurled and bounced around corners and travels farther than the Covenant's Plasma Grenade alternative; this can be used to quickly and aptly damage an attacker before he can move away from it, giving you an instant advantage in the close combat situation. It is also harder to see and has a shorter fuse, therefore making it harder to avoid and more useful for killing enemies on foot.

Gallery[edit]

Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • Detail view of an M9 Frag Grenade in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    Detail view of an M9 Frag Grenade in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • A pair of M9 grenades from Halo: Combat Evolved.

    A pair of M9 grenades from Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo 2.

    The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo 2.

  • The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo 3.

    The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo 3.

  • A fragmentation grenade in mid-flight.

    A fragmentation grenade in mid-flight.

  • The M9 Frag Grenade in the Halo: Reach Beta.

    The M9 Frag Grenade in the Halo: Reach Beta.

  • The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo: Reach.

    The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo: Reach.

  • An overview of the M9 Frag Grenade from Halo: Reach.

    An overview of the M9 Frag Grenade from Halo: Reach.

  • Front and back views of the M9 Frag Grenade from Halo: Reach.

    Front and back views of the M9 Frag Grenade from Halo: Reach.

  • Left and right views of the M9 Frag Grenade from Halo: Reach.

    Left and right views of the M9 Frag Grenade from Halo: Reach.

  • Reference chart of the Fragmentation Grenade in Halo: Reach.

    Reference chart of the Fragmentation Grenade in Halo: Reach.

  • A comparison of the M9 Fragmentation Grenade models from Halo 3 and Halo: Reach.

    A comparison of the M9 Fragmentation Grenade models from Halo 3 and Halo: Reach.

  • Render of the M9 grenade in Halo 4.

    Render of the M9 grenade in Halo 4.

  • The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo 4.

    The M9 Fragmentation Grenade in Halo 4.

  • HUD Icon of the M9 Frag Grenade in Halo 4.

    HUD Icon of the M9 Frag Grenade in Halo 4.

  • The M9 in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    The M9 in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Explosion from a frag in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Explosion from a frag in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • A Spartan-IV throwing a M9 in Halo Infinite.

    A Spartan-IV throwing a M9 in Halo Infinite.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 75
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 184
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t Bungie.net, The M9 Frag Grenade (Retrieved on Jan 31, 2021) [local archive] [external archive]
  4. ^ a b c d e Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 317
  5. ^ a b c d e Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 331: The 2011 Encyclopedia utilises an illustration of the Reach up-sized Spartan variant, but retains the statistics for the infantry variant from the original 2009 book.
  6. ^ a b c d e f Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Library: Frag Grenade - While the model for the grenade in Combat Evolved Anniversary is Halo: Reach's upsized design, the stats reported in the Library reflect the infantry design featured in the original Halos.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 73
  8. ^ a b c d e f g Halo Waypoint, Fragmentation Grenade (Retrieved on Jul 13, 2017) [archive]
  9. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Halo Waypoint, M9 High Explosive-Dual Purpose Antipersonnel Grenade (Retrieved on Jan 24, 2012) [local archive] [external archive]
  10. ^ Halo Infinite, Forge - M9 Frag Grenade description: "The M9 is a high-explosive, dual-purpose grenade utilized by all branches of the UNSC. Skilled users can bounce the grenade to get hard-to-reach targets and bypass obstacles."
  11. ^ Halo Waypoint, The New Halo Encyclopedia is Out Today (Retrieved on Mar 11, 2023) [archive]

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