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{{Era|UNSC|HCW}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Weapon Infobox
{{Weapon infobox
|image=[[File:H2A M90Shotgun.png|400px]]
|image=[[File:H2A M90Shotgun.png|300px]]
|name=M90-CAWS shotgun
|name=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technologies]]
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technology]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=173}}
|series=[[DTM series]]
|series=[[DTM series]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}
|type=
|type=Pump-action shotgun{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
|cost=cR 2200
|cost=
|variant=[[#Halo_3_and_Halo_3:_ODST|M90A]]
|variant=[[M90A shotgun]]
|service=*[[Insurrection]]
|service=*[[Insurrection]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|weight=*M90A:
|length={{Convert|46.5|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**Empty:5.4 kg (11.9 lbs)<ref name="bnet"/>
|width=
**Loaded: 5.8 kg (12.8 lbs)<ref name="bnet"/>
|height=
|length=*M90: 118.3 cm
|weight=
*M90A:
|ammotype=[[8-Gauge Magnum|M296 8-Gauge Magnum]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**(o/a):123.9 cm (48.8 in.)<ref name="bnet"/>
|capacity=
**(Barrel):61 cm (24 in.)<ref name="bnet"/>
|feed=12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|ammotype=[[Soellkraft 8 gauge magnum]]
|operation=[[wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
|feed=*M90: 12 shells
|rate=
*M90A: 6 shells
|velocity=
|operation=[[wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]
|optics=
|rate=~68 RPM{{Citation needed}} (semi-auto)
|range=
|velocity=300-400 m/s (980-1300 f/s)<ref name="bnet"/>
|range=40 to 100 meters{{Citation needed}}
}}
}}
{{Quote|I believe that the sound of racking the pump of a shotgun is universally recognized as "kiss your ass goodbye".|Anonymous [[E2-BAG/1/7]] serviceman}}
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''' is a pump-action shotgun used by the [[United Nations Space Command]]. Part of [[Weapon System Technologies]]' [[DTM series]], the M90 is a copy of [[Misriah Armory]]'s [[M45 Tactical Shotgun]].<ref name="bnet">[http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun '''Bungi.net''': ''Halo Universe - The M90A Shotgun'']</ref><ref>'''[[The Art of Halo]]'''</ref><ref name="ENC">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 310''</ref><ref name="Library">'''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''': ''[[Library (feature)|Library]]''</ref>


==Design details==
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}}
[[File:M90Shotgun.png|thumb|left|150px|A schematic of the M90.]]
The M90 CAWS is functionally identical to the [[M45 shotgun#M45E Tactical Shotgun|M45E]] on which it is based.<ref name="Library"/><ref>[[Data Drop/Six|Data Drop Six]]</ref> It is chambered for 8 gauge ammunition, typically the [[Soellkraft 8 gauge magnum]] in lieu of the [[M296 Magnum]] used by the M45. The cartridge provides immense firepower and ease of use with little risk of penetrating spacecraft hulls.<ref name="bnet"/> The weapon features a dual-tubular, non-detachable magazine that can be fed up to twelve shells through a top-mounted elevator. As the M90 is pump-action, spent shells are ejected each time the user works the action.


A tactical flashlight is mounted in line with the action shortly behind the muzzle. The iron sights may be colored faint blue (like the M45E's)<ref>''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''</ref><ref>''[[Halo Wars]]''</ref> or vibrant green.<ref>''[[Halo 2]]''</ref><ref>''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''</ref> The weapon has an adjustable stock.<ref name="bnet"/>
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}}


===M90A variant===
==Overview==
The M90A variant is similar in performance to the original M45, whereas the basic M90 is patterned after the M45E. The M90A has a magazine capacity of six shells rather than twelve, though this is compensated for by a longer barrel. The tactical light is mounted on the left of the action's grip instead of in front. The iron sights are colored blue.<ref name="ENC"/>
===Design details===
<gallery>
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}}
File:H3-M90-Shotgun-Side.png|M90A.
 
</gallery>
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}}


==Operational history==
===Functionality===
Shotguns saw prominent use during the frequent close-quarters urban combat of the [[Insurrection]]. [[Misriah Armory]]'s [[M45 Tactical Shotgun]] (particularly the [[M45 shotgun#M45E Tactical Shotgun|M45E variant]]) was acclaimed by its users, prompting [[Weapon System Technologies]] to develop a more economical and practical version. The resulting M90 Close Assault Weapon System is part of WST’s DTM series, which is also marketed to civilians and law enforcement agencies. Over the next several decades the M90 eclipsed the M45 in both the military and the private sector, seeing widespread use during the [[Human-Covenant War]]. However, both models continue to serve alongside one another, particularly in the [[UNSC Marine Corps]].<ref name="Library"/><ref>''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'', page 177</ref> [[Jiralhanae]] on [[Installation 05]] used captured M90s (along with other UNSC weapons) at the outbreak of the [[Great Schism]].<ref>''Halo 2'', campaign level "[[Uprising]]"</ref>
[[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}}


The M90 has earned a plethora of nicknames over the course of its service life, including "waste 'em", "deck clearer", "The Hammer", " Mop", "Broom", [[memory-alpha:Universal translator|"Universal Translator"]], "High Stick", "Thunderer", "Betsy", "Equalizer", and [[Wikipedia:AK-47|"Okay-47"]].<ref>'''Sybex Halo PC Strategy Guide''', ''page 19''</ref><ref>'''Halo Encyclopedia''', page ???</ref>
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}}


===Advantages===
===Performance===
The combined force of each of the fifteen spreading pellets per shot does a significant amount of damage against almost any type of infantry at close range, and the shell's widespread in certain situations can inflict shrapnel damage to multiple infantry. A near miss can still inflict grievous damage; the M90 Shotgun's powerful 8 gauge shell can punch through armor and [[Energy Shield]]s easily, making the M90 a great weapon for taking on heavily armored infantry and lightly armored vehicles. The M90's top loading system allows a user to reload the shotgun with speed and ease for quick firing.
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=}}


===Disadvantages===
==Operational history==
While extremely devastating at close quarters combat, the M90 is rendered virtually useless at extreme ranges, and should therefore be used in conjunction with a medium or long range weapon. The shotgun's pattern is extremely loose, and fans out quickly, thus at farther ranges, only a few pellets out of the 15 might hit.
The M90 was a common close-range battle implement in the service of the UNSC throughout the [[Human-Covenant War]]. It saw service in the hands of [[John-117]] during [[Operation: SILENT STORM]],{{Ref/Reuse|SS25}} but its most prominent usage came in 2552. It played a notable part in the [[Battle of Installation 04]], being used by [[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]] against the [[Covenant]] and [[Flood]].{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}} An M90 was also present during the ensuing [[Skirmish over Threshold]].{{Ref/Reuse|FS6}} It went on to be widely utilized during the [[Battle of Earth]].{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}} Notably, the [[Unidentified Master Gunnery Sergeant|Master Gunnery Sergeant]] who oversaw John-117's issuing with his new [[MJOLNIR Mark VI armor]] was killed on [[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]] while using an M90 to defend his armory from a pair of [[Sangheili]].{{Ref/Level|H2|Cairo Station}} M90s were brought on the ''[[UNSC In Amber Clad]]'', and thus were employed throughout the [[Battle of Installation 05]].{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}} During the battle, many Marines wielded M90s during their [[Battle of the Quarantine Zone|incursion]] into the [[quarantine zone]]. Following the accidental release of the [[Flood]] by [[Thel 'Vadam|Thel 'Vadamee]], many of these Marines fell victim to the parasite, with their M90s remaining in the possession of the resultant [[Flood combat form|combat forms]].{{Ref/Level|H2|Sacred Icon}}{{Ref/Level|H2|Quarantine Zone}} Towards the end of the Battle of Installation 05, during the opening stages of the [[Great Schism]], many M90s were captured by [[Jiralhanae]] forces, who employed them against both [[Covenant separatists|separatist]] Sangheili on the ring's surface,{{Ref/Level|H2|Uprising}}{{Ref/Level|H2|The Great Journey}} and Flood during their [[Fall of High Charity|invasion]] of [[High Charity]].{{Ref/Level|H2|High Charity (level)|High Charity}}
The M90, being a pump action shotgun, must be reloaded after every shot before it can be fired again, so a user missing enemies may as well be a death sentence; the M90 must also be reloaded shell by shell and does not use any type of external magazine. This can make reloading time-consuming when in combat situations, but it is useful to be able to interrupt the reloading and shoot after you load a shell. In close-quarter situations, the wide spread of the shell can potentially harm friendly infantry if the shotgun is fired indiscriminately.


==UNSC remarks==
==In-game information==
*“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.”<ref name="bnet"/>
===Visual depictions===
*“The adjustable stock on the M90 works just fine, but I’ve got a soft spot in my heart for the [[WST DTM/Law Enforcement|WST DTM/LE]] model — old habits die hard, I guess."<ref name="bnet"/>
[[File:HCE-M90Shotgun.png|350px|thumb|The depiction of the M90 from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.]]
*“Actually, I think the jury is still out on whether it means ‘STFU and STFD’ or ‘you ain’t gonna make it.”<ref name="bnet"/>
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]]''.
*“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 balanced 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.”<ref name="bnet"/>
*“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?”<ref name="bnet"/>


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M90 Shotgun}}
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M90 Shotgun}}
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the M90 shotgun shares its [[:File:Halo-SniperRifle-Reticule.png|reticule]] with the [[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle|sniper rifle]] and the then-PC-exclusive [[M7057 flamethrower|flamethrower]].
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the M90 shotgun shares its [[:File:Halo-SniperRifle-Reticule.png|reticule]] with the then-PC-exclusive [[M7057 flamethrower|flamethrower]].
*In the second issue of ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]'', the [[Unidentified captain (UNSC Dartmouth)|captain]] of the {{UNSCShip|Dartmouth}} retrieves several shotguns from a [[cryo chamber]]. In the first two panels, the shotguns appear to be [[M45 Tactical Shotgun|M45s]], though they resemble M90s in subsequent panels.
*In the second issue of ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]'', the [[Unidentified captain (UNSC Dartmouth)|captain]] of the {{UNSCShip|Dartmouth}} retrieves several shotguns from a [[cryo chamber]]. In the first two panels, the shotguns appear to be [[M45 Tactical Shotgun|M45s]], though they resemble M90s in subsequent panels.
*In ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', if the player uses [[Active Camouflage]] while the M90 is equipped, the shells will be the only objects still visible. This could be because the shells are technically not attached to the shotgun (like the magazines in other weapons) but rather held inside the weapon until ignited and fired. This is best seen when playing as [[Thel 'Vadam|the Arbiter]].
*In ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', if the player uses [[active camouflage]] while the M90 is equipped, the shells will be the only objects still visible. This could be because the shells are technically not attached to the shotgun (like the magazines in other weapons) but rather held inside the weapon until ignited and fired. This is best seen when playing as [[Thel 'Vadam|the Arbiter]].
*In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', the shotgun is the most effective weapon in the game against most [[Flood]] forms. A single shot is capable of killing [[Flood combat form]]s and [[Flood carrier form]]s and works best when paired with a weapon with a high-rate of fire such as an [[MA5B assault rifle]] to deal with [[Flood infection form]]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.
*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.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HCE_M90Shotgun_Icon.png|''Halo: Combat Evolved'' M90 icon.
File:M90 Shotgun.png|The M90 as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
File:M90 Shotgun.png|The M90 as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
File:HCE-M90Shotgun.png|Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. Note the absence of a trigger.
File:Shotgun-render.png|The shotgun in the hands of [[John-117]] 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:HCE 343 Guilty Spark Marine holding a M90.jpg|A Marine using an M90.
Line 76: Line 69:
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-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:Halo2-MasterChiefShotgun.png|John-117 holding an M90.
File:Halo3 Shotgun render.png|First-person view of the M90A Shotgun in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:M90 Shotgun (Torch Side).png|The M90A CAWS in ''Halo 3''.
File:Halo-3-legendary-map-pack--20080408000211295.jpg|First-person view of the M90A in ''Halo 3''.
File:M90A CAWS.jpg|A profile of the M90A.
File:1211479389 Shotty Discharge.jpg|A close-up of the M90A discharging a shell.
File:HaloWars-Forge-Shotgun.jpg|Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:HaloWars-Forge-Shotgun.jpg|Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:1771656-gallery.png|The shotgun as it appears in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[Homecoming]]''.
File:Homecoming Shotgun Concept.png|The shotgun as it appears in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[Homecoming]]''.
File:H2A_M90_Concept.jpg|M90 concept art for ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
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: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: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-M90HUD.png|First-person view of the M90 on Stonetown.
Line 98: Line 87:
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
**''[[Sadie's Story]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[The Package]]''
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
Line 115: Line 101:
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''


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


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

Latest revision as of 17:44, July 23, 2024

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.
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  • 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

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