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{{Era|UNSC|HCW}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Weapon Infobox
{{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}}
|image=[[File:H2A M90Shotgun.png|400px]]
{{Weapon infobox
|image=[[File:H2A M90Shotgun.png|300px]]
|name=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
|name=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technologies]]<ref name="BnetShotgun"/>
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technology]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=173}}
|series=[[DTM series]]<ref name="BnetShotgun"/>
|series=[[DTM series]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}
|type=Pump-action shotgun<ref name="CEM"/><ref name="H2M"/>
|type=Pump-action shotgun{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
|cost=
|cost=
|variant=
|variant=[[M90A shotgun]]
|service=*[[Insurrection]]
|service=*[[Insurrection]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|length={{Convert|46.5|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|width=
|height=
|weight=
|weight=
|ammotype=8 gauge magnum<ref name="CEM"/><ref name="H2M"/>
|ammotype=[[8-Gauge Magnum|M296 8-Gauge Magnum]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|feed=12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine<ref name="CEM"/>
|capacity=
|operation=[[wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]<ref name="CEM"/><ref name="H2M"/>
|feed=12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|operation=[[wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
|rate=
|rate=
|velocity=
|velocity=
|optics=
|range=
|range=
}}
}}
The '''M90 Close Assault Weapon System''' (CAWS),<ref name="ENC325">''[[Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe|Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe (2011 edition)]]'', Page 325</ref> also known as the '''M90 Close Assault Shotgun''',<ref name="FS6">''[[Halo: First Strike]]'', Chapter 6</ref> '''M90 assault shotgun''', or simply the '''M90''',<ref name="SS25">''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]'', Chapter 25</ref> is a pump-action shotgun in service with [[UNSC]].<ref name="ENC325"/> It is a military variant of the prolific [[DTM series]] of shotguns from [[Weapon System Technologies|Weapon Systems Technologies]].<ref name=
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}}
"BnetShotgun">[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun Bungie.net, M90A Close Assault Weapon System]</ref>
 
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}}
 
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}}


==Overview==
==Overview==
===Design===
===Design details===
[[File:H2A M90 Concept.jpg|thumb|left|Alternate views of the M90]]
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}}
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 name="CEM">''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Manual#Human Weapons|Halo: Combat Evolved Manual, Page 18, “M90 Shotgun”]]''</ref> It is designed as a more practical and cost-effective recreation of [[Misriah Armory]]’s [[M45E Tactical Shotgun]],<ref name=
 
"HCEAL">''[[Library (feature)#Shotgun|Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary Library, “Shotgun”]]''</ref>  though in UNSC service it is considered to be functionally identical.<ref name="HWDD6">''[[Data drops|Halo Waypoint Data Drop 6]]''</ref> 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. A flashlight is integrated into the weapon’s forend, which also features a prominent reddish button.<ref name="HCEG">''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', Gameplay</ref><ref name="H2G">''[[Halo 2]]'', Gameplay</ref><ref name=
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}}
"H2AG">''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', Gameplay</ref> 


===Functionality===
===Functionality===
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 8-gauge magnum 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. Once the chambered round is fired, to do so again, the forend of the weapon (which serves as the weapon's foregrip) is slid back across the weapon’s underside in the directing 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 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 name="HCEG"/><ref name="H2G"/><ref name="H2AG"/>
[[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}}


===Depictions===
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}}
[[File:HCE-M90Shotgun.png|350px|thumb|right|The depiction of the M90 from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.]]
There are two primary depictions of the M90 CAWS. The first depiction is the original seen in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. The more recent depiction, however, is that seen in ''[[Halo 2]]'', ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' campaign and ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' multiplayer. In the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' depiction, the weapon features a smooth magazine with a chrome finish, and the iron sights glow blue.<ref name="HCEG"/> In ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 2: Anniversary'', the magazine of the weapon has a dull grey finish with ribbed indents, and the iron sights glow green.<ref name="H2G"/><ref name="H2AG"/> In ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' multiplayer, the magazine retains its ribbed design but with a glossy black finish.<ref name="H2G"/><ref name="H2AG"/> 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.<ref name="HCEG"/>


===Performance===
===Performance===
The M90 is a devastating weapon in close, confined environments, with a loud report and strong recoil.<ref name="H2M">''[[Halo 2 Manual#Current UNSC Weapons|Halo 2 Manual, Page 11, “M90 Shotgun"]]''</ref> The spray of pellets from the weapon mean that at slightly longer ranges, it can be used to hit clusters of targets simultaneously,<ref name="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 name="H2M"/> The M90's powerful cartridge makes it capable of efficiently engaging and defeating enemies with [[energy shielding]] within effective range.<ref name="SS25"/> The Covenant learned to be wary of this weapon in the urban environments typical of engagements throughout the Covenant War, noting its close-range power.<ref>''[[Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual#Primitive Implements of War|Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual, Primitive Implements of War, "M90 Shotgun"]]''</ref>
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=}}


===Variants===
==Operational history==
*'''[[M90A shotgun]]''': The M90A shotgun 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="Halo 3">''Halo 3'', Gameplay</ref>
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}}
<gallery>
File:H3-M90-Shotgun-Side.png|M90A shotgun
</gallery>


===Usage===
==In-game information==
The M90 was a common close-range battle implement in the service of the UNSC throughout the [[Covenant War]]. It saw service in the hands of [[John-117]] during [[Operation: SILENT STORM]],<ref name="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 name="HCEG"/> An M90 was also present during the ensuing [[Skirmish over Threshold]].<ref name="FS6"/> It went on to be widely utilized during the [[Battle of Earth]].<ref name="H2G"/> In particular, 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]] while using an M90 to defend his armory from [[elite]]s.<ref>''[[Cairo Station (level)|Halo 2, "Cairo Station" campaign level]]''</ref> M90s were brought on the ''[[UNSC In Amber Clad]]'', and thus were employed throughout the [[Battle of Installation 05]].<ref name="H2G"/>
===Visual depictions===
[[File:HCE-M90Shotgun.png|350px|thumb|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.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}} A similar shotgun design, the [[M90A shotgun]], is featured in ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M90 Shotgun}}
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the M90 shotgun shares its [[:File:Halo-SniperRifle-Reticule.png|reticule]] with 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: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''.
Line 65: Line 72:
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:Homecoming Shotgun Concept.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:H2ACP-M90HUD.png|First-person view of the M90 in ''[[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: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 80: Line 89:
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
**''[[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 94: Line 102:
*''[[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 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.
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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
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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