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{{Era|HCW|Post}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Weapon Infobox
{{Weapon infobox
|image=[[File:H3-MA5C-ICWS-AR-Left.png|350px]]
|image=[[File:H3-MA5C-ICWS-AR-Left.png|350px]]
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=163}}
|series=[[MA5 series]]
|series=[[MA5 series]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|type=[[wikipedia:bullpup|Bullpup]] [[wikipedia:assault rifle|assault rifle]]
|type=[[wikipedia:bullpup|Bullpup]] [[wikipedia:assault rifle|assault rifle]]
|cost=1686.00 [[cR]]<ref name="C">[http://halo.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGAssaultRifle '''Bungie.net''': ''MA5C Assault Rifle'']</ref>
|cost=1686.00 [[cR]]{{Ref/Site|Id=C|URL=http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGAssaultRifle|Site=Bungie.net|Page=MA5C Assault Rifle|D=16|M=12|Y=2007|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present#MA5C Assault Rifle}}
|variant=
|variant=
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]]<br>
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]]<br>
Line 11: Line 11:
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|weight=
|weight=
*(empty): 3.8 kilograms (8.378 pounds)<ref name="C"/>
*(empty): {{Convert|3.8|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
*(loaded): 4.1 kilograms (9.05 pounds)<ref name="C"/>
*(loaded): {{Convert|4.1|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|length=
|length=
*(o/a): 88 centimeters (34.6 inches)<ref name="C"/>
*(o/a): {{Convert|34.6|in|cm}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}{{Ref/Note|In the ''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition)]]'', the MA5C's length is contradictingly listed on page 163 as 38.9 inches (98.8 cm).}}
*(barrel): 60.7 centimeters (24 inches)<ref name="C"/>
*(barrel): {{Convert|24|in|cm}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|ammotype=[[7.62x51mm|7.62×51mm Full Metal Jacket]]<ref name="C"/>
|ammotype=[[7.62x51mm|7.62×51mm Full Metal Jacket]]{{Ref/Reuse|C}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|feed=32 round box magazine<ref name="C"/>
|capacity=
|feed=32 round box magazine{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|operation=[[wikipedia:Gas-operated reloading#Short-stroke piston|Short-stroke]], [[wikipedia:Gas-operated reloading|gas-operated]], [[wikipedia:Rotating bolt|rotating-bolt]]
|operation=[[wikipedia:Gas-operated reloading#Short-stroke piston|Short-stroke]], [[wikipedia:Gas-operated reloading|gas-operated]], [[wikipedia:Rotating bolt|rotating-bolt]]
|rate=
|rate=
*750-900 RPM (universe)<ref name="C"/>
*750-900 RPM{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
*650 RPM (gameplay)
|velocity=905 m/s (2970 ft/s){{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|velocity=905 m/s (2970 ft/s)<ref name="C"/>
|optics=
|range=300 metres<ref name="C"/>
|range=300 metres{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
}}
}}
<choose><option>{{Article quote|The MA5C is the workhorse for us ground-pounders. Just holding it makes you feel like God’s own anti-son-of-a-bitch-machine.}}</option><option>
<choose><option>{{Article quote|The MA5C is the workhorse for us ground-pounders. Just holding it makes you feel like God’s own anti-son-of-a-bitch-machine.}}</option><option>
{{Article quote|I have slogged through snow and mud and sand with my MA5C; even got dumped into an open sewer with it and it has never given me a bit of complaint. I trust it like I trust my own arms.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The MA5C is built like a brick outhouse with Venetian blinds. You can pound on a mike foxtrot with it like it was a sledgehammer.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|For every time I’ve felt out-gunned by those alien bastards shooting blobs of energy at me I have felt like Death himself watching their bodies come apart under a hail of lead from my MA5C.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The Romeo Echo Mike Foxtrot’s decision to mechanically reduce the MA5C’s magazine capacity by nearly half is pretty frustrating; even if their data was showing that jamming because of loss of spring strength was becoming an issue.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The only thing I can think of that would make the MA5C any sweeter would be an under-slung shotty or a forty mike mike.}}</option></choose>
{{Article quote|I have slogged through snow and mud and sand with my MA5C; even got dumped into an open sewer with it and it has never given me a bit of complaint. I trust it like I trust my own arms.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The MA5C is built like a brick outhouse with Venetian blinds. You can pound on a mike foxtrot with it like it was a sledgehammer.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|For every time I’ve felt out-gunned by those alien bastards shooting blobs of energy at me I have felt like Death himself watching their bodies come apart under a hail of lead from my MA5C.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The Romeo Echo Mike Foxtrot’s decision to mechanically reduce the MA5C’s magazine capacity by nearly half is pretty frustrating; even if their data was showing that jamming because of loss of spring strength was becoming an issue.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The only thing I can think of that would make the MA5C any sweeter would be an under-slung shotty or a forty mike mike.}}</option></choose>
The '''MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System''', abbreviated '''MA5C ICWS''' and commonly known as the '''MA5C assault rifle''', is a standard-issue service rifle for the [[UNSC Marine Corps]] and the [[UNSC Navy|Navy]]. Produced by [[Misriah Armory]] as part of its [[MA5 Series]], the MA5C is an improvement on the [[MA5B assault rifle|MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System]].<ref name="C"/>
The '''MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System''', abbreviated '''MA5C ICWS''' and commonly known as the '''MA5C assault rifle''', is a standard-issue service rifle for the [[UNSC Marine Corps]] and the [[UNSC Navy|Navy]]. Produced by [[Misriah Armory]] as part of its [[MA5 Series]], the MA5C is an improvement on the [[MA5B assault rifle|MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System]].{{Ref/Reuse|C}}


==Overview==
==Overview==
{{Main|MA5 Series}}
The MA5C assault rifle is an air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine-fed, fully-automatic bullpup rifle that fires 32 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition. It possesses a built-in ammunition indicator and compass for orientation.{{Ref/Reuse|C}} However, it features no in-built [[Telescopic sight|optical magnification]].{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
The MA5C Assault Rifle is an air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine-fed, fully-automatic bullpup rifle that fires 32 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition. It possesses a built-in ammunition indicator and magnetic compass for orientation similar to that of all other MA5 series rifles.


The MA5C rifle has received technical, as well as physical improvements over the MA5B rifle that include: a heavier barrel with a 1 in 7 twist; a redesigned cowling to house the electronics suite that reduces weight and increases portability of weapon; and a redesigned handguard which is sturdier and provides a more positive grip. The magazine capacity has been reduced to 32 rounds from the original 60 in the MA5B, and the rifle's range and accuracy has been substantially improved over its predecessor, making it a more formidable assault rifle.
The MA5C rifle has received technical, as well as physical improvements over the [[MA5B assault rifle]] that include: a heavier barrel with a 1 in 7 twist; a redesigned cowling to house the electronics suite that reduces weight and increases portability of weapon; and a redesigned handguard which is sturdier and provides a more positive grip. The magazine capacity has been reduced to 32 rounds from the original 60 in the MA5B, and the rifle's range and accuracy has been substantially improved over its predecessor, making it a more formidable assault rifle.{{Ref/Reuse|C}} While widespread in usage, the weapon lacks the component modularity and upgrades of its successor models.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


A downside to the MA5C was the lack of a secondary weapon system,<ref name="C"/> however by December [[2553]] the weapon was able to use a [[M301 grenade launcher]].<ref>''[[Halo: Retribution]]'', Chapter 14</ref>
A downside to the MA5C was the lack of a secondary weapon system,{{Ref/Reuse|C}} however by December [[2553]] the weapon was able to use a [[M301 grenade launcher]].{{Ref/Novel|HRet|Chapter=14}}


==Service history==
===Usage===
The MA5C has been in service with the UNSC as early as [[2526]].<ref name="HSS3">'''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''', ''Chapter 3''</ref> By [[2557]] the MA5C had been largely replaced by the MA5D.<ref name="H4VG">'''Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 60''</ref>
The MA5C has been in service with the UNSC as early as [[2526]].{{Ref/Novel|Id=HSS3|HSS|Chapter=3}} The MA5C became one of the most prominent rifles used by the UNSC during the closing days of the [[Human-Covenant War]], and was heavily used by [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]] forces during the [[Battle for Earth]] and the [[Battle of Installation 00|Ark Conflict]].{{Ref/Game|H3|[[Assault Rifle]] in-game weapon}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} By [[2557]], the MA5C had been largely replaced by the [[MA5D assault rifle]],{{Ref/Book|Id=H4VG|H4EVG|Page=60}} although it continued to see usage by reserve units scattered abroad.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


== Gameplay ==
==Gameplay==
=== Advantages ===
===Advantages===
The MA5C in both offensive and suppressive situations remains the Marine Corps' most reliable weapon. When fired in short bursts the MA5C Rifle can be effective at hitting targets at longer ranges, and the rifle's armor penetrating ability makes it key for handling even the toughest of infantry. The MA5C Rifle is effective at killing armored infantry at short-to-medium range and its high rate of fire allows its user to spray an area with suppression fire in defensive situations. At close range, the MA5C is arguably deadlier than the [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]], as the firepower is approximately equal. The MA5C also provides the user with an ammo count on its digital readout, as well a compass pointing toward the arbitrary magnetic "north" position. In the hands of someone who can control his trigger finger, the MA5C becomes a deadly weapon in close-quarter situations.
The MA5C in both offensive and suppressive situations remains the Marine Corps' most reliable weapon. When fired in short bursts the MA5C can be effective at hitting targets at longer ranges, and the rifle's armor penetrating ability makes it key for handling even the toughest of infantry. The MA5C is effective at killing armored infantry at short-to-medium range and its high rate of fire allows its user to spray an area with suppression fire in defensive situations. At close range, the MA5C is arguably deadlier than the [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]], as the firepower is approximately equal. The MA5C also provides the user with an ammo count on its digital readout, as well a compass pointing toward the arbitrary magnetic "north" position. In the hands of someone who can control their trigger finger, the MA5C becomes a deadly weapon in close-quarter situations.


=== Disadvantages ===
===Disadvantages===
The MA5C's main disadvantage is that it is horribly inaccurate when fired in full-automatic. Although substantially more accurate than the MA5B, it is still too inaccurate for use at longer ranges, which makes the user an easy target for long range weapons - at long range a high ratio of misses to hits is likely, especially if the target is moving. The magazine can run out very quickly in fully automatic fire, and it has relatively low power per round compared to many other weapons; an engagement with numerous and/or particularly resilient enemies will likely require the user to reload a few times, leaving them open to counter-fire. It should be used as a secondary weapon for shorter ranges, paired with a long range weapon like the [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle|battle rifle]] or [[Covenant Carbine]].
The MA5C's main disadvantage is that it is horribly inaccurate when fired in full-automatic. Although substantially more accurate than the MA5B, it is still too inaccurate for use at longer ranges, which makes the user an easy target for long range weapons - at long range a high ratio of misses to hits is likely, especially if the target is moving. The magazine can run out very quickly in fully automatic fire, and it has relatively low power per round compared to many other weapons; an engagement with numerous and/or particularly resilient enemies will likely require the user to reload a few times, leaving them open to counter-fire. It should be used as a secondary weapon for shorter ranges, paired with a long range weapon like the [[BR55HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] or [[Vostu-pattern carbine|Covenant Carbine]].


=== Changes from the MA5B in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to MA5C in ''Halo 3'' ===
===Changes from the MA5B in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to MA5C in ''Halo 3''===
*Different firing sound.
*Different firing sound.
*Increased maximum magazines.
*Increased maximum magazines.
Line 53: Line 53:
*Increased range and increased damage per round.
*Increased range and increased damage per round.
*Decreased rate of fire and a faster reload time.
*Decreased rate of fire and a faster reload time.
*Decreased projectile speed.


=== Changes from ''Halo 3'' to ''Halo 3: ODST'' ===
===Changes from ''Halo 3'' to ''Halo 3: ODST''===
*Firing sound is amplified.
*Firing sound is amplified.
*Gun view model was changed slightly.
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
===Silver Timeline===
{{Notice/Silver|category=no}}
MA5C assault rifles were used by [[Silver Team/Silver|Silver Team]] and other UNSC personnel in battles against the Covenant.{{Ref/YouTube|Id=HTVOT|5KZ3MKraNKY|Paramount+|Halo The Series (2022) Official Trailer|Y=2022|M=1|D=30}} [[John-117/Silver|John-117's]] MA5C was stylized with a "117" on the side of the barrel.{{Ref/Reuse|Inheritance}}
During [[Operation: DEFIANT GLASS]], [[John-117/Silver|John-117]] used an MA5C against attacking [[Sangheili]] forces before ultimately discarding the weapon in favor of a more effective machine gun turret. Rather than opting to retrieve his gun, John left the assault rifle abandoned in the base when he left,{{Ref/Film|TV|Episode=[[Contact]]}} likely because there was only one bullet left in it.{{Ref/Reuse|Inheritance}}
During the [[Battle of Eridanus II/Silver|Battle of Eridanus II]], John was given an assault rifle by a Marine as he had yet to replace the one that he had discarded on Madrigal. While driving a [[M12 Warthog|Warthog]], John placed the weapon on the passenger's seat and left it there when he left the vehicle to help [[Kai-125/Silver|Kai-125]].{{Ref/Film|TV|[[Reckoning]]}}
After returning to [[Jin Ha|her father]]'s [[Jin Ha's Outpost|outpost]], [[Kwan Ha]] discovered John's discarded assault rifle half-hidden under a truck. Kwan used the gun to detonate the Sky Pipe, killing [[Vinsher Grath]] and all of his forces. Kwan subsequently kept the weapon for herself.{{Ref/Film|Id=Inheritance|TV|Episode=[[Inheritance]]}}


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of MA5C assault rifle}}
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of MA5C assault rifle}}
=== References ===
===References===
*On the butt of the MA5C, a small [[List of Marathon references in Halo|''Marathon'' symbol]] can be found. It is also found on the left side of the weapon just below the charging handle.
*On the butt of the MA5C, a small [[List of Marathon references in Halo|''Marathon'' symbol]] can be found. It is also found on the left side of the weapon just below the charging handle.


=== Miscellaneous ===
===Miscellaneous===
*All pre-release public pictures of the MA5C in first person showed BR55 animations as placeholders before the final animations were in place in the final game.
*All pre-release public pictures of the MA5C in first person showed BR55 animations as placeholders before the final animations were in place in the final game.
*In the ''[[Halo 3 Beta]]'', the charging handle of the MA5C had an animation. However, this is not present in ''Halo 3''.
*In the ''[[Halo 3 Beta]]'', the charging handle of the MA5C reciprocated as you fired the weapon. However, this is not present in ''Halo 3''.
*The green button on the MA5C is a power on/off switch for the weapon's flashlight, which is never used in game by playable characters.
*The green button on the MA5C is a power on/off switch for the weapon's flashlight, which is never used in game by playable characters.
*When tested, each individual round of the MA5C actually does slightly more damage than the [[BR55HB battle rifle|BR55HB SR]]. However, this is offset by the MA5C's lower accuracy at mid-long range, and the fact that it has no headshot bonus.
*When tested, each individual round of the MA5C actually does slightly more damage than the BR55HB SR. However, this is offset by the MA5C's lower accuracy at mid-long range and the fact that it has no headshot bonus.
*The remastered MA5B in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' uses the MA5C's model.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYfNBCHYHFE&feature=player_embedded#at=14 '''Youtube''': ''Halo: Anniversary Exclusive Pre-Order Grunt Funeral Skull'']</ref>
*The remastered MA5B in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' uses the MA5C's model.{{Ref/YouTube|UYfNBCHYHFE|Halo|Halo: Anniversary Exclusive Pre-Order Grunt Funeral Skull}}
*In ''[[Wikipedia:Fable 2|Fable 2]]'', the MA5C can be obtained in the Knothole Island expansion pack. It is called [[Fable:Hal's Rifle|"Hal's Rifle"]].
*In ''[[Wikipedia:Fable 2|Fable 2]]'', the MA5C can be obtained in the Knothole Island expansion pack. It is called [[Fable:Hal's Rifle|"Hal's Rifle"]].
*The 1/7 barrel twist rate is not optimal for the ammunition the MA5C uses; this would generally cause the projectile to become very unstable (and thus, more inaccurate) as it travels through the air. 7.62×51mm rounds are usually fired through barrels with a 1/10, 1/11, or 1/12 twist.
*The 1/7 barrel twist rate is not optimal for the ammunition the MA5C uses; this would generally cause the projectile to become very unstable (and thus, more inaccurate) as it travels through the air. 7.62×51mm rounds are usually fired through barrels with a 1/10, 1/11, or 1/12 twist.


=== Mistakes ===
===Mistakes===
*The MA5C's reload animation depicts the player character pushing the charging handle forward after reloading, though realistically he would need only to pull the handle back slightly before it launched forward by itself. Also, the character is seen "riding" the charging handle with his finger as it slides forward. This can cause malfunctions in modern weapons, as riding the charging handle while the bolt carrier goes forward can prevent the bolt from going fully into battery.
*The MA5C's reload animation depicts the player character pushing the charging handle forward after reloading, though realistically he would need only to pull the handle back slightly before it launched forward by itself. Also, the character is seen "riding" the charging handle with his finger as it slides forward. This can cause malfunctions in modern weapons, as riding the charging handle while the bolt carrier goes forward can prevent the bolt from going fully into battery.
*The ''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]'' incorrectly states that the MA5C has a reduced magazine size of twenty-four rounds, though the adjacent image shows the ammunition counter of an MA5C which contains thirty-two rounds.
*The ''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]'' incorrectly states that the MA5C has a reduced magazine size of twenty-four rounds despite the adjacent image showing the ammunition counter of an MA5C which contains thirty-two rounds.
*''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'' mistakenly states that the MA5 series does not appear in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' despite the MA5C's presence.
*''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'' incorrectly states that the MA5 series does not appear in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' despite the MA5C's presence.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
Line 86: Line 99:
File:Halo3-MasterChief-MA5C.png|Master Chief wielding an MA5C while walking.
File:Halo3-MasterChief-MA5C.png|Master Chief wielding an MA5C while walking.
File:Halo3-MasterChief-Crouch.png|Master Chief wielding an MA5C while crouching.
File:Halo3-MasterChief-Crouch.png|Master Chief wielding an MA5C while crouching.
File:H3-MasterChief-Shooting-Large.jpg|The Master Chief firing an MA5C in-game on the level [[Halo)|Halo 3]], on [[Installation 08]].
File:H3-MasterChief-Shooting-Large.jpg|The Master Chief firing an MA5C in-game on the level [[Halo (Halo 3 level)|Halo]], on [[Installation 08]].
File:Through the Eyes of the Chief.jpg|The MA5C reticule and ammo counter as seen on the MJOLNIR [[heads up display]].
File:Through the Eyes of the Chief.jpg|The MA5C reticule and ammo counter as seen on the MJOLNIR [[heads up display]].
File:Marines(2).jpg|Marines on [[Tsavo highway (location)|Tsavo Highway]] using the MA5C rifle.
File:Marines(2).jpg|Marines on [[Tsavo highway (location)|Tsavo Highway]] using the MA5C rifle.
File:Hals-rifle.jpg|Hal's Rifle from ''[[Wikipedia:Fable 2|Fable 2]]''.
File:Buck.jpg|[[Edward Buck]] firing an MA5C during the [[Battle of Mombasa]] in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.
File:Buck.jpg|[[Edward Buck]] firing an MA5C during the [[Battle of Mombasa]] in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.
File:Johnson - Origins.png|[[Avery Johnson]] with an MA5C in ''[[Halo Legends]]'': ''[[Origins]]''.
File:Johnson - Origins.png|[[Avery Johnson]] with an MA5C in ''[[Halo Legends]]'': ''[[Origins]]''.
File:Legends SPARTAN-II team.jpg|John-117 with an MA5C during [[Operation: WARM BLANKET]] in ''Halo Legends'': ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
File:Legends SPARTAN-II team.jpg|John-117 with an MA5C during [[Operation: WARM BLANKET]] in ''Halo Legends'': ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
File:H2A Terminals - Jai vs Thel.jpg|[[Jai-006]] attempting to kill [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee with an MA5C during the [[Battle of the Rubble]] in the ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' [[Terminal/Halo 2: Anniversary|terminals]].
File:H2A Terminals - Jai vs Thel.jpg|[[Jai-006]] attempting to kill [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee with an MA5C during the [[Battle of the Rubble]] in the ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|terminals]].
File:HSS-John.png|John-117 with an MA5C in ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''.
File:HSS-John.png|John-117 with an MA5C in ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''.
File:Hals-rifle.jpg|Hal's Rifle from ''[[Wikipedia:Fable 2|Fable 2]]''.
File:HTMCC H3 AssaultRifles.jpg|A rack of MA5Cs in the ''[[Finish The Fight]]'' trailer.
File:HTMCC H3 AssaultRifles.jpg|A rack of MA5Cs in the ''[[Finish The Fight]]'' trailer.
File:HTMCC_H3_AssaultRifle_Closeup.jpg|A closeup view of an MA5C.
File:HTMCC_H3_AssaultRifle_Closeup.jpg|A closeup view of an MA5C.
File:HTV-MA5C.jpg|[[John-117/Silver|John-117]] with an MA5C in ''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''.
File:HTV-MA5CLondon.jpg|Prop of an MA5C.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==List of appearances==
==List of appearances==
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Starry Night]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Starry Night]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Believe]]''  
*''[[Believe]]''  
Line 119: Line 136:
**''[[Patrol]]''
**''[[Patrol]]''
**''[[Deliver Hope]]''
**''[[Deliver Hope]]''
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
*''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
*''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal/Halo 2: Anniversary|Terminals]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
Line 129: Line 147:
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]''
**''[[Contact]]''
**''[[Reckoning]]''
**''[[Solace (TV Series)|Solace]]''
**''[[Inheritance]]''
**''[[Transcendence]]''
{{Col-end}}
==Notes==
{{Ref/Notes}}


==Sources==
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}
{{Ref/Sources}}
{{UNSC rifles}}
{{UNSC rifles}}
[[Category:Assault rifles]]
[[Category:Assault rifles]]

Latest revision as of 08:03, November 7, 2024

MA5C assault rifle
H3-MA5C-ICWS-AR-Left.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model series:

MA5 series[1]

Type:

Bullpup assault rifle

Cost:

1686.00 cR[2]

Specifications

Length:

  • (o/a): 34.6 inches (88 cm)[2][Note 1]
  • (barrel): 24 inches (61 cm)[2]

Weight:

  • (empty): 3.8 kilograms (8.4 lb)[2]
  • (loaded): 4.1 kilograms (9.0 lb)[2]

Ammunition type:

7.62×51mm Full Metal Jacket[2][1]

Feed system:

32 round box magazine[2]

Operation:

Short-stroke, gas-operated, rotating-bolt

Rate of fire:

Muzzle velocity:

905 m/s (2970 ft/s)[2]

Effective range:

300 metres[2]

Service history

In service:

Human-Covenant War
Post-Covenant War conflicts

 
The MA5C is built like a brick outhouse with Venetian blinds. You can pound on a mike foxtrot with it like it was a sledgehammer.

The MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System, abbreviated MA5C ICWS and commonly known as the MA5C assault rifle, is a standard-issue service rifle for the UNSC Marine Corps and the Navy. Produced by Misriah Armory as part of its MA5 Series, the MA5C is an improvement on the MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System.[2]

Overview[edit]

The MA5C assault rifle is an air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine-fed, fully-automatic bullpup rifle that fires 32 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition. It possesses a built-in ammunition indicator and compass for orientation.[2] However, it features no in-built optical magnification.[1]

The MA5C rifle has received technical, as well as physical improvements over the MA5B assault rifle that include: a heavier barrel with a 1 in 7 twist; a redesigned cowling to house the electronics suite that reduces weight and increases portability of weapon; and a redesigned handguard which is sturdier and provides a more positive grip. The magazine capacity has been reduced to 32 rounds from the original 60 in the MA5B, and the rifle's range and accuracy has been substantially improved over its predecessor, making it a more formidable assault rifle.[2] While widespread in usage, the weapon lacks the component modularity and upgrades of its successor models.[1]

A downside to the MA5C was the lack of a secondary weapon system,[2] however by December 2553 the weapon was able to use a M301 grenade launcher.[3]

Usage[edit]

The MA5C has been in service with the UNSC as early as 2526.[4] The MA5C became one of the most prominent rifles used by the UNSC during the closing days of the Human-Covenant War, and was heavily used by Marine forces during the Battle for Earth and the Ark Conflict.[5][1] By 2557, the MA5C had been largely replaced by the MA5D assault rifle,[6] although it continued to see usage by reserve units scattered abroad.[1]

Gameplay[edit]

Advantages[edit]

The MA5C in both offensive and suppressive situations remains the Marine Corps' most reliable weapon. When fired in short bursts the MA5C can be effective at hitting targets at longer ranges, and the rifle's armor penetrating ability makes it key for handling even the toughest of infantry. The MA5C is effective at killing armored infantry at short-to-medium range and its high rate of fire allows its user to spray an area with suppression fire in defensive situations. At close range, the MA5C is arguably deadlier than the M7/Caseless Submachine Gun, as the firepower is approximately equal. The MA5C also provides the user with an ammo count on its digital readout, as well a compass pointing toward the arbitrary magnetic "north" position. In the hands of someone who can control their trigger finger, the MA5C becomes a deadly weapon in close-quarter situations.

Disadvantages[edit]

The MA5C's main disadvantage is that it is horribly inaccurate when fired in full-automatic. Although substantially more accurate than the MA5B, it is still too inaccurate for use at longer ranges, which makes the user an easy target for long range weapons - at long range a high ratio of misses to hits is likely, especially if the target is moving. The magazine can run out very quickly in fully automatic fire, and it has relatively low power per round compared to many other weapons; an engagement with numerous and/or particularly resilient enemies will likely require the user to reload a few times, leaving them open to counter-fire. It should be used as a secondary weapon for shorter ranges, paired with a long range weapon like the battle rifle or Covenant Carbine.

Changes from the MA5B in Halo: Combat Evolved to MA5C in Halo 3[edit]

  • Different firing sound.
  • Increased maximum magazines.
  • Decreased magazine capacity down from 60 rounds to 32.
  • Increased range and increased damage per round.
  • Decreased rate of fire and a faster reload time.
  • Decreased projectile speed.

Changes from Halo 3 to Halo 3: ODST[edit]

  • Firing sound is amplified.
  • Gun view model was changed slightly.

Non-canon and dubious canon appearances[edit]

Silver Timeline[edit]

HTV-SilverTeam logo.png
This article contains information about the Silver Timeline, and is not a part of the established Halo canon.

MA5C assault rifles were used by Silver Team and other UNSC personnel in battles against the Covenant.[7] John-117's MA5C was stylized with a "117" on the side of the barrel.[8]

During Operation: DEFIANT GLASS, John-117 used an MA5C against attacking Sangheili forces before ultimately discarding the weapon in favor of a more effective machine gun turret. Rather than opting to retrieve his gun, John left the assault rifle abandoned in the base when he left,[9] likely because there was only one bullet left in it.[8]

During the Battle of Eridanus II, John was given an assault rifle by a Marine as he had yet to replace the one that he had discarded on Madrigal. While driving a Warthog, John placed the weapon on the passenger's seat and left it there when he left the vehicle to help Kai-125.[10]

After returning to her father's outpost, Kwan Ha discovered John's discarded assault rifle half-hidden under a truck. Kwan used the gun to detonate the Sky Pipe, killing Vinsher Grath and all of his forces. Kwan subsequently kept the weapon for herself.[8]

Trivia[edit]

References[edit]

  • On the butt of the MA5C, a small Marathon symbol can be found. It is also found on the left side of the weapon just below the charging handle.

Miscellaneous[edit]

  • All pre-release public pictures of the MA5C in first person showed BR55 animations as placeholders before the final animations were in place in the final game.
  • In the Halo 3 Beta, the charging handle of the MA5C reciprocated as you fired the weapon. However, this is not present in Halo 3.
  • The green button on the MA5C is a power on/off switch for the weapon's flashlight, which is never used in game by playable characters.
  • When tested, each individual round of the MA5C actually does slightly more damage than the BR55HB SR. However, this is offset by the MA5C's lower accuracy at mid-long range and the fact that it has no headshot bonus.
  • The remastered MA5B in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary uses the MA5C's model.[11]
  • In Fable 2, the MA5C can be obtained in the Knothole Island expansion pack. It is called "Hal's Rifle".
  • The 1/7 barrel twist rate is not optimal for the ammunition the MA5C uses; this would generally cause the projectile to become very unstable (and thus, more inaccurate) as it travels through the air. 7.62×51mm rounds are usually fired through barrels with a 1/10, 1/11, or 1/12 twist.

Mistakes[edit]

  • The MA5C's reload animation depicts the player character pushing the charging handle forward after reloading, though realistically he would need only to pull the handle back slightly before it launched forward by itself. Also, the character is seen "riding" the charging handle with his finger as it slides forward. This can cause malfunctions in modern weapons, as riding the charging handle while the bolt carrier goes forward can prevent the bolt from going fully into battery.
  • The Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition) incorrectly states that the MA5C has a reduced magazine size of twenty-four rounds despite the adjacent image showing the ammunition counter of an MA5C which contains thirty-two rounds.
  • Halo: The Essential Visual Guide incorrectly states that the MA5 series does not appear in Halo 3: ODST despite the MA5C's presence.

Gallery[edit]

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ In the Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), the MA5C's length is contradictingly listed on page 163 as 38.9 inches (98.8 cm).

Sources[edit]