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BR55 battle rifle: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|H2|FS}}
{{Status|Canon}}
 
{{Weapon infobox
{{Cleanup}}
|image=[[File:H5G Render BR55 Service Rifle.png|300px]]
 
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=168}}
{{Weapon
|series=BR55
| image=[[Image:BattleRifleAngles.JPG|300px]]
|type=Bullpup [[battle rifle]]
| name=BR55 Battle Rifle
|cost=
| manufacturer=
|variant=
| model=BR55
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]]
| type=Bullpup Rifle
<br>[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
| cost=
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
| size=Handheld, Two-Handed
|weight={{Convert|3.8|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}
*length: 89.9 centimeters
|length={{Convert|89.9|cm|in}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
| damage per hit=*Medium (against shields)
|ammotype=9.5×40mm [[M634 Experimental High-Powered Semi-Armor-Piercing]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
*High(flesh damage)
|capacity=
*Overall damage: Medium
|feed=36-round magazine{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
| magazine=36 rounds, 12 rounds (Halo 3)
|operation=[[wikipedia:Gas-operated#Short-stroke piston|Short-stroke piston]], [[wikipedia:Rotating bolt|rotating bolt]], [[wikipedia:Blowback (firearms)|locked breech]]
| maxammo=144 rounds or 4 magazines
|velocity=
| fire=Three-Round Burst
|optics=
| ammotype=M634 9.5x40mm X-HP-SAP(Experimental, High Penetration, Semi-Armor Piercing)
|range=900 meters{{Ref/Novel|Id=BR55DMR|HCH|Chapter=13}}{{Ref/Note|The ''Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe'' claims that the BR55 battle rifle has a maximum effective range of 200 meters. However, this figure is unlikely given that most 21st century rifles have an effective range far greater than 200 meters. As such, this article assumes that the BR55 has the same range as its prototype, the XBR55.}}
| operation=Gas System with cam mechanism for burst fire
| rate of fire=Low-Medium(bursts)
| accuracy=High
| range=Medium to Semi-Long Ranges.
| era=
| counterpart=[[M6C Magnum]], or [[Carbine]]
| counterwep=[[Sniper Rifle]], [[M6C Magnum]]
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
}}
}}
{{HaloWikiLink|Battle_Rifle}}
{{Quote|When nothing else gets the job done, the BR55 Battle Rifle will do.|''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)|Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe]]''{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}}}
==Summary==
The '''BR55 Service Rifle''' is an infantry [[battle rifle]] in service within the armed forces of the [[United Nations Space Command]].{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}{{Ref/Book|Id=EVG|EVG|Page=21}} Among UNSC service personnel, the BR55 has accumulated a number of nicknames including the "'''Monkey Wrench'''", "'''BR'''", and the "'''Big Boy'''".{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc09|Enc09|Page=305}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc11|Enc11|Page=318-319}} It is notable for its powerful three-round burst fire and accurate 2× scope, making it more efficient at farther ranges than the [[MA5 series|MA5 series assault rifles]].  
The '''BR55 Battle Rifle''' is a bullpup [[UNSC]] rifle. It fires a larger bullet than an [[Assault rifle]], giving more power but also more recoil. Because of the difficult handling when firing fully-automatic, the BR55 is restricted to three-round bursts. The [[M6D pistol]] in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] was changed into this Battle Rifle, although the power of the Battle Rifle was reduced compared to the M6D, as was its firepower.


Its biggest problem lies in its magazine size combined with the burst fire, giving only 12 bursts before reloading. Also, the Battle Rifle is slightly effective at close ranges.
==Overview==
===Design details===
The BR55 Service Rifle is a gas-operated, magazine-fed, mid-to-long range weapon capable of three fire modes;{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} semi-automatic,{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}} fully automatic,{{Ref/Novel|Oblv|Chapter=9}} and a three-round burst-fire.{{Ref/Game|Id=H2|H2|[[Battle Rifle]] in-game weapon}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}} The weapon is most commonly fired in the latter of these modes.{{Ref/Book|Id=H2M|Halo 2 manual|Page=10}}{{Ref/Book|Id=H2LEM|Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition manual|Page=13}} The rifle has a bullpup layout, with a detachable 36-round box magazine loaded behind the grip and trigger, with a safety switch located above the handle. While serving to reduce the weapon's length, the rifled barrel of the weapon extends its total length to {{Convert|89.9|cm|in}}. It is typically equipped with a three-pronged [[Wikipedia:Flash suppressor|flash suppressor]], though this attachment can be swapped out for others such as a [[suppressor]].{{Ref/Level|HW2|Gatecrashers|Detail=Mission select artwork ([[:File:HW2-Odsts-1.jpg|File link]])}} As with the other weapons in [[Misriah Armory]]'s battle rifle line, the BR55 fires [[9.5x40mm]] [[M634 Experimental High-Powered Semi-Armor-Piercing|M634 HP-SAP]],{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} and 9.5x40mm SAP-HE.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}


==Advantages==
The BR55 is fitted with an optics rail above the barrel, complete with a mounting point for a [[telescopic sight]]. By default, the weapon is equipped with a so-called (and retroactively-named) "[[classic sight]]",{{Ref/Game|H5G|List of REQ cards|REQ card|Detail=Halo 2 Battle Rifle description|Quote=BR with Classic Sight. Reliable firepower never goes out of style. Battle Rifle with full-screen zoom.}} capable of x2 magnification.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2LEM}} It features no iron sights.


Designated the BR55 Battle Rifle, it has reasonably high power, a decent rate of fire, and high accuracy, proving itself to be one of the most versatile weapons in the UNSC arsenal. With a 2x magnification scope, it can be used to deliver three-shot-bursts accurately from medium-to-long range. Firing at any unshielded target's head (besides [[Hunters]], [[Brutes]], and [[Drones]]) results in an instant kill (see [[head shot]]).
Overall, the weapon is considered to have high accuracy and high rate-of-fire, leading it to be popular among UNSC service personnel.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}


In Campaign, the Battle Rifle is useful against just about any infantry units at medium and, sometimes, semi-long range. In [[multiplayer]], three bursts bring down standard [[shields]], while one headshot (meaning that only one of the three rounds fired needs to connect) results in death if the shields are down. The "BR" is revered by pros as the Ultimate Weapon. It is very well balanced in power and fire-rate, and is amazingly accurate if wielded by an expert marksman. It's rate of fire, at maximum, is actually pretty high, almost that of a Plasma Rifle, though with more accuracy and higher velocity. It is also a decent anti-sniper weapon or suppressive weapon.  
[[File:Whitebkgrdrifle.jpg|thumb|The BR55 was one of the standard infantry rifles of the UNSC during the Covenant war.]]


==Disadvantages==
===Usage===
While newly introduced into UNSC service at the onset of the [[Human-Covenant War]], the BR55 quickly came to dominate all aspects of the military - becoming an extremely popular rifle throughout most of the military's branches.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} While formally designated a battle rifle, in practice the weapon fulfils the battlefield role of a [[Designated Marksman Rifle]],{{Ref/Reuse|BR55DMR}} and by [[2548]] had entirely eclipsed the pre-existing [[M392 DMR]] in all UNSC service except for the [[UNSC Army]]{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} - with the [[BR55HB battle rifle|BR55HB]] upgrade fully-replacing it.{{Ref/Book|Id=EncDMR|Enc11|Page=316}}{{Ref/Site|Id=WPDMR|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/featured/gallery/dmr/c0dfea7c-87fa-4224-82ff-c44d93b73f03|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=DMR|LocalArchive=Archive:Halo_Waypoint/2009 to 2014/Universe/Weapons|D=21|M=08|Y=2011}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22DMR|Enc22|Page=171}} Although the heavy barrel variant was an upgrade of the BR55, in practice the two operate almost identically.{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}


At longer ranges, it is necessary to minimize strafing movements when firing to avoid "splintering" the shot grouping too much. Since each "shot" is really a three-round-burst, certain movements can break up your shot's grouping and greatly reduce accuracy. This also affects accuracy when firing from a moving vehicle such as a Warthog (especially when firing at a 90 degree angle from the vehicle's heading).
As such, by [[2552]] almost all soldiers in the UNSC had trained in use of the BR55 - ensuring that what defects the weapon has are somewhat mitigated. By this time, the weapon was considered one of the standard firearms in use by UNSC forces.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}


Additionally, the burst fire makes it slightly disadvantaged in close-combat positions, though the melee usually takes care of this. Each bullet also acts as a tracer which gives away the shooter's position. Also, the range is limited: if a sniper rifle's reticule isn't red when you're aiming at an enemy, the battle rifle won't hit the target.
==Operational history==
While battle rifles began to see popularity throughout the UNSC beginning in the mid-2400s prior to the [[Insurrection]],{{Ref/Book|H4EVG|Page=61}} the BR55 did not enter service until the onset of the [[Human-Covenant War]] in [[2525]].{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} The weapon was prototyped as the [[XBR55 battle rifle]] around the time of the [[First Battle of Harvest]], and was in the hands of [[SPARTAN-II program|Spartan-II]] supersoldiers by December of that year.{{Ref/Comic|Id=HCD1|HCD|Issue=1}} During these early encounters with the [[Covenant]], BR55s also fell into the hands of [[Insurrectionist]]s of the [[United Rebel Front]].{{Ref/Reuse|HCD1}} As the war progressed, the battle rifle proved itself an extremely popular weapon particularly in the service of the [[UNSC Navy]] and [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine Corps]], in which it all-but replaced the older M392 marksman rifles. By [[2548]], the introduction of the BR55's upgraded model the BR55HB fully-replaced the M392 DMR in all services except for the UNSC Army.{{Ref/Reuse|EncDMR}}{{Ref/Reuse|WPDMR}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22DMR}}


The BR55's popularity ultimately contributed to the design of its successor models, the [[BR75 battle rifle|BR75]] and [[BR85 battle rifle]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/battle-rifle|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Battle Rifle|D=14|M=06|Y=2021}}


==Compared to the [[M6D]]==
==Gameplay==
[[Image:Whitebkgrdrifle.jpg|200px|right]]
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes}}
There is a lot of argument on what weapon is better, the Battle rifle, or the M6D.  
===Advantages===
The BR55 has reasonably high power, a decent rate of fire, and high accuracy with an electronic 2× telescopic sights attachment; it can be used to deliver three-round bursts at medium ranges. In [[multiplayer]], three body shots and one head shot will kill a fully shielded opponent, assuming the player does not have an overshield. This weapon will kill an unshielded enemy in a single head shot. Target the head and if you're within range a red dot will appear in your reticule. This requires that only one of the three rounds from a burst actually hit and kill an enemy. Therefore, it is possible to kill up to three unshielded opponents in a single burst if they are grouped close enough to each other, though this is an uncommon occurrence. However, right after you shoot, it is possible to only shoot one round rather than three bullets, with a melee attack to disrupt the burst. Against vehicles like the {{Pattern|Wuzum|Spectre}} or {{Pattern|Karo'etba|Ghost}}, an experienced player can easily take out the driver, rendering the vehicle immobile, however, this is harder with the Warthog.


Based on the facts and spec, the M6D is a better weapon than the Battle Rifle. The M6D takes 1 less shot to kill, AND it has a higher rate of fire meaning that it kills MUCH faster than the Battle Rifle. They both have a scope.
In ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'', the BR55 provides a slightly faster weapon switch and reload time compared to the [[BR85 battle rifle#BR85N Service Rifle|BR85N]]. Most notably, however, the BR55 has higher bullet magnetism, which allows targets to be hit with less-than-perfect aim.


the Battle Rifle, M6D, and the M6C Magnum all do the same damage to an unshielded foe. The M6D does the most damage of the 3 to a shielded enemy, and the M6C Magnum, and Battle Rifle do equal damage to an shielded foe.
===Disadvantages===
At longer ranges, it is necessary to minimize strafing movements when firing to avoid "splintering" the shot grouping too much. Since each "shot" is actually a three-round burst, certain movements can break up your shot's grouping, and could greatly reduce accuracy. To avoid this, either swap it in for the Covenant Carbine, or get up to medium range. The Carbine has the same degree of firepower, and it lacks the splitting effect although it is slightly less accurate. This also affects accuracy when firing from a moving vehicle such as a [[M12 Force Application Vehicle|Warthog]] (especially when firing at a 90-degree angle from the vehicle's heading).  


The BR55 is not as effective at long ranges. Each bullet also acts as a tracer which gives away the shooter's position. Also, the range is limited compared to the [[Sniper Rifle System 99C-S2 Anti-Matériel|Sniper Rifle]]. It is also not effective against [[Sentinel]]s, and does negligible damage against vehicles. Neither is it an effective weapon at close range, as the low fire rate and average stopping power of the weapon makes any fully-automatic weapon far superior in close-quarters combat.


The Battle rifle fires rounds stronger than the [[SMG]] in 3 shot bursts, but there is a pause between every shot, therefor the M6C Magnum and the Battle rifle kill equally fast, however Dual Magnums top a Battle Rifle in effectiveness. (more on this below)
Compared to most other UNSC firearms, those using the BR55 have access to limited amount of ammo as they can only three spare magazines, not including the loaded magazine in the rifle.
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
===Silver Timeline===
{{Notice/Silver|category=no}}
BR55 battle rifles are 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}}


==Compared to the [[M6C Magnum]]==
==Trivia==
*On the side of the BR55 opposite the charging handle there are two Chinese symbols, "猴王", which translate to ''"Monkey King"''.
*On the level ''[[Quarantine Zone]]'' in ''Halo 2'', the player can acquire a BR55 from a dead Marine that, when reloaded, can have a total of 236 spare rounds instead of the normal 108 spare rounds.
*In the ''Halo 2'' E3 Demo, the BR55 was the only weapon shown used in making a melee combo, a feature that was originally meant to be in the final version of the game but was scrapped. It was also shown firing semi-automatically in both the demo and in the E3 2004 multiplayer alpha demo, in which the semi-auto mode was engaged when zoomed.
*Like the [[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle#SRS99C-S2 AMB|sniper rifle]], the BR55 is modeled without a trigger in ''Halo 2''.
*The BR55 was featured in Bungie's 30th anniversary event as the solar pulse rifle BxR-55 Battler in ''Destiny 2''.


Many think that the Battle Rifle would "own" a [[M6C Magnum]] outright, anytime, this is NOT true. The Battle Rifle fires rounds that are weaker than a Magnum, however they are similar to it. For each shot the Battle Rifle does, the M6C would have done 3. the Battle Rifle takes 4 bursts to the head to kill (12 shots) and the M6C takes 9, after the update, 12. the [[Magnum]] is ALOT more effective than a [[Battle Rifle]] against flesh, killing faster.
==Gallery==
 
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes}}
here is a comparison:
<gallery>
 
File:Spartan with Battle Rifle2.jpg|John-117 wielding a BR55 aboard ''[[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]]'' in ''[[Halo 2 announcement trailer]]''.
the pre-update M6C Magnum is able to kill as fast, or faster than a Battle Rifle at almost any range, and Dual pre-update Magnums kill WAY faster than a Battle Rifle does.  
File:Battle_rifle -1.jpg|The BR55 in an early ''[[Halo 2]]'' build.
 
File:H2-BR55BattleRifleSide.png|A render of the BR55 from ''Halo 2''.
Think about it this way: the pre-update magnum takes 9 headshots to kill, the Magnum has a VERY fast rate of fire, and by the time the Magnum gets in 9 shots, the Battle Rifle will only be on its 3rd bursts, and it takes 4 bursts for a Battle Rifle to kill.
File:BR55BattleRifleAngles.png|An overview of the BR55 Service Rifle in ''Halo 2''.
 
File:H2-MasterChiefMkVI-BattleRifle.png|John-117 carrying a BR55 Service Rifle in ''Halo 2''.
The auto-updated(some people dont have it) Magnum does not kill as fast as a Battle Rifle does, however if you pull the trigger very fast, it can kill faster than a Battle Rifle since the updated Magnum takes 12 headshots to kill, same as a Battle Rifle, and for every Battle Rifle shot, the Magnum can pull off aproxx 3, maybe 4, However Dual updated Magnums kill faster than the Battle Rifle anytime.
File:Flood human form.jpg|A [[Flood combat form]] wielding a BR55 in ''Halo 2''.
 
File:H2-BR55BattleRifle-FirstPerson.png|First-person view of the BR55 Service Rifle in ''Halo 2''.
in conclusion, the [[M6C Magnum]] is basiclly equal in peformance to a [[Battle Rifle]], and it can kill even faster than a Battle Rifle, especially Duals. A single pre-update [[Magnum]] kills faster than a Battle Rifle, same with Dual Pre-update Magnums, an Updated single Magnum wont kill as fast as a Battle Rifle most of the time, however it can but that depends on a player's ability to pull the trigger quickly, Dual Updated Magnums kill faster than the Battle Rifle at Close, and Medium ranges, at Semi-long ranges a Battle Rifle is most likely to win unless put against a pre update Magnum.
File:H2-BR55BattleRifle-Scope.jpg|Detail view through the BR55's scope in ''Halo 2''.
 
File:CP armor.png|A Spartan-II in [[Gray Team]] using a BR55 during the [[Battle of the Rubble]] in ''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''.
== Compared to the [[MA5B]] ==
File:HW_FloodMarine_Concept.jpg|Concept art of a Flood combat form with a BR55 for ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
Comapred to the MA5B the BR55 is far superior at mid and long ranges though slightly outclassed at short range. The BR55 is much more accurate, powerful and effective however at short ranges its burst fire is a liability.  
File:Legends-Homecoming-John117.jpg|John-117 wielding a BR55 during the [[Human-Covenant War]] in ''[[Halo: Legends]]'': ''[[Homecoming]]''.
 
File:H2A_BR55_Concept.jpg|Concept art for ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
== Compared to Reality ==
File:H2A - Battle rifle.png|Render of the BR55 in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
 
File:H2A - John117 with BR.png|John-117 wielding a BR55 in ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''.
Compared to real life assault rifles it is very similar and more realistic than the MA5B. The BR55 not only has accuracy and burst fire but also a power similar to that of a real life rifle. However the fact it does burst shot only is the one unrealistic feature.
File:TanODST.jpg|An ODST wields the BR55 on [[Installation 05]] in an early build of ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
 
File:H2A-AnotherDay1.jpg|The BR55 being used by [[Marcus Stacker]] in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
== Tactics for Covenant ==
File:H2AMP-BR55.png|A Spartan firing a BR55 on [[Stonetown]].
 
File:H2ACP-BR55HUD.png|First-person view of the BR55 in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
*Grunt:  
File:H2ACP-BR55zoom.png|The 2× zoom on the BR55.
This is the most effective weapon for Grunts. As they are slow and clumsy, you can go for an easy headshot or pin them down with bullets until they fall.
File:H2AMP-BR55HUD.png|First-person view of the BR55 in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' multiplayer.
 
File:H2A BR55 Mag.jpg|thumb|A magazine used with the BR55 in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' multiplayer.
*Jackal:
File:H2AMP-BR55zoom.png|The 2× zoom on the BR55 on [[Bloodline]].
Ineffective at long and medium ranges, as the bullets bounce straight off an Energy Shield.
File:H5G-BR55HUD.png|First-person view of the BR55 in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
This is a useful tactic. When confronted by a Jackal with it's shield in defense position, fire a well-placed shot in it's hand, and, as it flinches, get in a headshot.
File:H5G-BR55zoom.png|[[Smart scope]] with the BR55 on [[Riptide]].
 
File:H2br.png|REQ Card of the BR55.
*Jackal Sniper:
File:H5G-BR85NvsBR55.png|A BR85N in comparison to a BR55 in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
At medium range, the rifle is an effective anti-sniper weapon, giving cover fire or suppression against those annoying snipers. Be careful you don't get sniped as you stand in the open though, and be sure the Jackal doesn't recover and fire off a shot. This is extremely important for Legendary battles.  
File:HO_BR55.jpeg|BR55 Pioneer from the Premium and Elite Beta test passes for ''[[Halo Online]]''.
 
File:HO BR55 PIONEER.png|BR55 Pioneer in ''Halo Online''.
*Elite:
File:HM-DeltaHalo.jpg|John-117 using a BR55 on Installation 05 in ''[[Halo Mythos]]''
The Elite's energy shield is a great defense to the Battle Rifle. A basic Minor Elite takes almost half a mag to take it's shields down, though when they are down, they are a soft target for a headshot, if you have the ammo left.
File:HW2-Shadows.png|A Spartan-II in [[Red Team]] using a BR55 in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
Try to keep the rifle levelled at it's head, and keep firing till it falls dead.
File:HW2-BR55silencer.jpg|An ODST using a BR55 with a sound suppressor during [[Operation: SPEARBREAKER]].
 
File:HTV BattleRifles.jpg|BR55 props for ''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''.
*Brute:
</gallery>
The rifle is one of the best weapons for Brutes. You can kill a Brute with a single headshot, as the first bullet will take off the helmet, then the next two put out the monster's lights. Chest shots are also effective.
 
*Hunter:
Dodge behind them, and fire as many bursts as possible into their back before they turn around.
Be careful when fighting an enraged Hunter, as they can backhand you and kill you with a single strike.
 
*Drone:
Fire as fast as you can, and take 'em out of the air. They can be a difficult target when flying, so just keep spraying. Headshots are also hard, as the Drones hunch over, making a discernible head difficult.
 
==Influence==
 
The BR55 is largely based on the French standard issue [[Wikipedia:FAMAS (rifle)|FAMAS]] assault rifle, and also has features resembling the US Army's prototype [[Wikipedia:XM8 (rifle)|XM8]] rifles. Other weapons to perhaps influence its design are the SA80 and Steyr AUG becuase of their bullpup and scope layouts.  
 
[[Image:XM8_Assault_Rifle.jpg|right|thumb|200px|The XM8 Assault Rifle was one of the weapons to influence the BR55 Battle Rifle.]][[Image:Famas_Assault_Rifle.jpg|right|thumb|200px|The FAMAS Assault Rifle was one of the weapons to influence the BR55 Battle Rifle.]]
 
==Appearances==
 
The Battle Rifle was not featured in Halo 1 but was created for Halo 2, though it makes its first in-universe chronological appearance in [[Halo: First Strike]]. It was designed to replace the Pistol from the original game; this was because the developers felt that the pistol was overbalanced for a weapon of such a small size (and just in general, as compared to the other weapons in the game).


The "BR" was originally designed by Bungie to fire single shots in semi-automatic rates of fire, but the idea was apparently used for the [[Covenant Carbine]] instead.
==List of appearances==
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo 2]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[Dirt]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Mortal Dictata]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: Last Light]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Know Your Enemy]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Envoy]]''
*''[[Halo: Retribution]]''
*''[[Halo: Collateral Damage]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Outpost Discovery]]''
*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]''
**''[[Contact]]''
**''[[Unbound]]''
**''[[Emergence]]''
**''[[Homecoming (TV Series)|Homecoming]]''
**''[[Reckoning]]''
**''[[Allegiance]]''
**''[[Transcendence]]''
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season Two]]''
**''[[Sanctuary (TV Series)|Sanctuary]]''
**''[[Sword (TV Series)|Sword]]''
**''[[Visegrád (TV Series)|Visegrád]]''
**''[[Reach (TV Series)|Reach]]''
**''[[Aleria (TV Series)|Aleria]]''
**''[[Thermopylae (TV Series)|Thermopylae]]''
{{Col-end}}


Another idea the developers were working on was a three bullet minimum per burst and full auto that resulted from holding the trigger. Zoomed in, the rifle only shot a single bullet. However, these features were ultimately scrapped in favor of the more simplistic design that was used in the final version of Halo 2.
==Notes==
 
{{Ref/Notes}}
The Battle Rifle will be returning in [[Halo 3]]. The screenshot below shows that the "new" Battle Rifle, or [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle]] has a longer barrel, a modified carrying handle, the scope resembles the modern-day [[Wikipedia: Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight| Trijicon ACOG]], and there is now a trigger guard over the trigger, a feature lacking in the Halo 2 Battle Rifle
 
==Ammo==
It is interesting to note the ammo used for the Battle Rifle. It uses a new [[9.5mm x 40]] Experimental Round. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7.62x51_NATO 7.62mm x 51] round is a moderately large round used on the MA5B and on modern day marksman rifles and machine guns. The 7.62mm already has a history of having [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7.62x51_NATO#Development too much recoil] because of the bullet's size which made it hard to fire fully-automatically in assault rifles. Having a bigger bullet that is almost 2 mm wider would make [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recoil recoil] worse. Due to this theory, it would make sense to say that [[Technology#UNSC_Technology|future technology]] might have some role in countering these effects. It could be safe to say also that due to the Battle Rifle's [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bullpup bullpup] design, it could counter the recoil effects.
 
However, the 9.5x40mm ammunition used for the BR55 has less powder in each cartridge than the 7.62x51mm rounds used in the MA assault rifles. So despite having a large bullet diameter, the decrease in powder for each round would actually cause less recoil, making it very tolerable. A burst setting on the rifle would also reduce recoil, preventing the user from spraying a target with high-caliber ammunition, possible causing uncomfortable physical effects such as mild bruising and so on.
 
The size of the ammo would also have a problem fitting in a 36-round magazine of the current Battle Rifle. If an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heckler_%26_Koch_G3 Heckler Koch G3] (which is chambered in 7.62mm x 51) has a standard magazine count of 20 and be the size that it is, it would be hard to see a bullet much thicker than the 7.62mm fit inside of a magazine of the Battle Rifle's size and with a capacity of 36 rounds. Again, this might have something to do with future UNSC weapon technology. This is a continuous pattern with UNSC assault rifles as a similar instance occurred with the MA5B. The MA5B has a magazine of 60 rounds chambered in the 7.62mm x 51 with a rather "small" magazine size, which looks to be smaller than the Battle Rifle's magazine. On Youtube there is a certain video of Halo 3 that shows a Battle Rifle with an M45 Grenade Launcher along with the Spiker, Sniper Rifle, and MA5C.
 
== Full Combat Load Battle Rifle? ==
 
On the Level [[Quarantine Zone (Level)]] in Halo 2, the player can find a Battle Rifle from a dead UNSC soldier that, when reloaded, has a total of 236 rounds of ammo total. A few players have speculated that this is the "full" combat load for the Battle Rifle, as the player can normally carry only 108 rounds.
 
==Glitches==
 
The Battle Rifle may be used in several glitches. Although they can be used with all weapons, the BXR weapons glitch allows a user to melee, cancel the animation, and then fire, by tapping B (melee), X right afterwards, and then R (the right trigger/gun). This causes an instant kill to a shielded opponent (Elite in campaign or opponent in matchmaking).
 
Another glitch is the RRX, also known as the double-shot. When you press R (the right trigger)twice without pausing followed by pressing the X button right after the pressing of the second R, instead of firing a three-round burst followed by a pause, it fires six bullets without pausing, simulating automatic fire. After successfully pulling off the glitch, your weapon reloads but without any reloading animation. The drawback with the glitch originally was that once you did the double shot, you were reloading the weapon and therefore could not interrupt it and start firing the weapon again to perform another double shot. However this was solved by tapping the Y button twice to switch your weapon and to quickly switch back to your battle rifle, which interrupted the reloading procedure and you could thus start double-shooting again. It takes four bursts from the battle rifle to the head to kill a target, so successfully tapping RRXYYRRX while accurately firing gave you the ability to kill an opponent quickly, but it is very difficult to master.
 
There is also the RRYB, an instant kill glitch where you press the right trigger twice, immediately followed by pressing Y (which switched to your other weapon) followed by pressing B (melee) all while running towards your target. It is essentially a BXR but in reverse and you fire two shots instead of one.
 
Constant fire - This glitch is not easy to perform, but not hard either. The player must not have host connection of the party else it doesn't work. First, fire one bullet of the BR, next throw a grenade straight away, then tap reload twice or three times quickly before resuming to fire, constantly. If it works you should be able to fire all your ammo without reloading. (RLXX(X)RRRR...)
 
== Trivia ==
* It's reticule resembles the symbol of the [[wikipedia: Zodiac Killer| Zodiac Killer]].
* On the side of the Battle Rifle, (opposite side to the bolt) there are three Chinese symbols. Some people have stated that it may mean "The Monkey King".
*This weapon was first introduced in Eric Nylund's Halo: First Strike novel. It was noted that this rifle had "a longer barrel and stock, with a cut down muzzle shroud.", "A scope was mounted on an optics railing along the top of the rifle". Spartan 043 (Will)once commented on the rifle: "Auto zoom, nice."
* The ''Halo 3'' Battle Rifle is called the BR55HB SR Battle Rifle. Which the "HB" most likely stands for "Heavy Barrel".
* The Battle Rifle was originally named the HA871.
 
==Character Compatibility==
*[[Elites]]
*[[Spartans]]
*[[Marines]]
*[[Brutes]] (High Charity level, only on Legendary, though this is very rare.)
*[[Drones]] (have animation but not used)
*[[Jackals]]
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Human)]]
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Elite)]]
 
==Counterweapons==
{|style="margin: 0 2em 0em 0em;font-size:85%;" align=center> id=toc
!align=center bgcolor=#6699CC colspan=2|''''''Counter-Battle Rifle Tactics''''''
|-
||[[SMG]] || When countering the Battle Rifle, it is best to dual-wield this powerful close-quarters weapon. Run towards the BR-user in a zig-zag pattern, firing as you go. Be sure to push your thumbstick down (or up if your controls are inverted) to negate the effects of SMG kickback. Get in close; there the BR's power is negated.
|-
||[[Beam Rifle]] or [[Sniper Rifle]] || Although experienced battle rifle users will retreat to cover and use counter sniper tactics against you, sniper rifles are still effective. Make sure that the BR-wielder is either distracted or unaware of your presence before you take your shot, a good grenade will help with that because of its unique smoke issued after the explosion. Hide in a hard-to-get-to area and take them out from extreme range.
|-
||[[Energy Sword]] or [[Shotgun]] || While the battle rifle may seem ineffectual to close range specialists, they must not underestimate its power. The best tactic is to move in close, as the stress of battle will negate the threat of its long-range coup de grâce. Engagement at medium-far ranges can lead to a deadly rifle attack that could easily kill the inexperienced sword or shotgun wielder.
|}
 
==Images==
<gallery>
Image:Flood_human_form.jpg
Image:Battle rifle -1.jpg
</gallery>


<br clear="all">
==Sources==
{{WepList}}
{{Ref/Sources}}


[[Category:Held Weapons]]
{{UNSC rifles}}
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
[[Category:Rifles]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:Weapons]]

Latest revision as of 04:11, March 14, 2024

BR55 battle rifle
H5G Render BR55 Service Rifle.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model series:

BR55

Type:

Bullpup battle rifle

Specifications

Length:

89.9 centimetres (35.4 in)[2][1][3]

Weight:

3.8 kilograms (8.4 lb)[2]

Ammunition type:

9.5×40mm M634 Experimental High-Powered Semi-Armor-Piercing[1]

Feed system:

36-round magazine[1]

Operation:

Short-stroke piston, rotating bolt, locked breech

Effective range:

900 meters[4][Note 1]

Service history

In service:

Human-Covenant War
Post-Covenant War conflicts

 

"When nothing else gets the job done, the BR55 Battle Rifle will do."
— Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe[5][2]

The BR55 Service Rifle is an infantry battle rifle in service within the armed forces of the United Nations Space Command.[1][3] Among UNSC service personnel, the BR55 has accumulated a number of nicknames including the "Monkey Wrench", "BR", and the "Big Boy".[5][2] It is notable for its powerful three-round burst fire and accurate 2× scope, making it more efficient at farther ranges than the MA5 series assault rifles.

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

The BR55 Service Rifle is a gas-operated, magazine-fed, mid-to-long range weapon capable of three fire modes;[3] semi-automatic,[5][2] fully automatic,[6] and a three-round burst-fire.[7][5][2] The weapon is most commonly fired in the latter of these modes.[8][9] The rifle has a bullpup layout, with a detachable 36-round box magazine loaded behind the grip and trigger, with a safety switch located above the handle. While serving to reduce the weapon's length, the rifled barrel of the weapon extends its total length to 89.9 centimetres (35.4 in). It is typically equipped with a three-pronged flash suppressor, though this attachment can be swapped out for others such as a suppressor.[10] As with the other weapons in Misriah Armory's battle rifle line, the BR55 fires 9.5x40mm M634 HP-SAP,[1] and 9.5x40mm SAP-HE.[3]

The BR55 is fitted with an optics rail above the barrel, complete with a mounting point for a telescopic sight. By default, the weapon is equipped with a so-called (and retroactively-named) "classic sight",[11] capable of x2 magnification.[1][8][9] It features no iron sights.

Overall, the weapon is considered to have high accuracy and high rate-of-fire, leading it to be popular among UNSC service personnel.[5][2]

The BR55 was one of the standard infantry rifles of the UNSC during the Covenant war.

Usage[edit]

While newly introduced into UNSC service at the onset of the Human-Covenant War, the BR55 quickly came to dominate all aspects of the military - becoming an extremely popular rifle throughout most of the military's branches.[1] While formally designated a battle rifle, in practice the weapon fulfils the battlefield role of a Designated Marksman Rifle,[4] and by 2548 had entirely eclipsed the pre-existing M392 DMR in all UNSC service except for the UNSC Army[3] - with the BR55HB upgrade fully-replacing it.[12][13][14] Although the heavy barrel variant was an upgrade of the BR55, in practice the two operate almost identically.[3]

As such, by 2552 almost all soldiers in the UNSC had trained in use of the BR55 - ensuring that what defects the weapon has are somewhat mitigated. By this time, the weapon was considered one of the standard firearms in use by UNSC forces.[5][2]

Operational history[edit]

While battle rifles began to see popularity throughout the UNSC beginning in the mid-2400s prior to the Insurrection,[15] the BR55 did not enter service until the onset of the Human-Covenant War in 2525.[1] The weapon was prototyped as the XBR55 battle rifle around the time of the First Battle of Harvest, and was in the hands of Spartan-II supersoldiers by December of that year.[16] During these early encounters with the Covenant, BR55s also fell into the hands of Insurrectionists of the United Rebel Front.[16] As the war progressed, the battle rifle proved itself an extremely popular weapon particularly in the service of the UNSC Navy and Marine Corps, in which it all-but replaced the older M392 marksman rifles. By 2548, the introduction of the BR55's upgraded model the BR55HB fully-replaced the M392 DMR in all services except for the UNSC Army.[12][13][14]

The BR55's popularity ultimately contributed to the design of its successor models, the BR75 and BR85 battle rifles.[1][17]

Gameplay[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to BR55 battle rifle on its gameplay page.

Advantages[edit]

The BR55 has reasonably high power, a decent rate of fire, and high accuracy with an electronic 2× telescopic sights attachment; it can be used to deliver three-round bursts at medium ranges. In multiplayer, three body shots and one head shot will kill a fully shielded opponent, assuming the player does not have an overshield. This weapon will kill an unshielded enemy in a single head shot. Target the head and if you're within range a red dot will appear in your reticule. This requires that only one of the three rounds from a burst actually hit and kill an enemy. Therefore, it is possible to kill up to three unshielded opponents in a single burst if they are grouped close enough to each other, though this is an uncommon occurrence. However, right after you shoot, it is possible to only shoot one round rather than three bullets, with a melee attack to disrupt the burst. Against vehicles like the Wuzum-pattern Spectre or Karo'etba-pattern Ghost, an experienced player can easily take out the driver, rendering the vehicle immobile, however, this is harder with the Warthog.

In Halo 5: Guardians, the BR55 provides a slightly faster weapon switch and reload time compared to the BR85N. Most notably, however, the BR55 has higher bullet magnetism, which allows targets to be hit with less-than-perfect aim.

Disadvantages[edit]

At longer ranges, it is necessary to minimize strafing movements when firing to avoid "splintering" the shot grouping too much. Since each "shot" is actually a three-round burst, certain movements can break up your shot's grouping, and could greatly reduce accuracy. To avoid this, either swap it in for the Covenant Carbine, or get up to medium range. The Carbine has the same degree of firepower, and it lacks the splitting effect although it is slightly less accurate. This also affects accuracy when firing from a moving vehicle such as a Warthog (especially when firing at a 90-degree angle from the vehicle's heading).

The BR55 is not as effective at long ranges. Each bullet also acts as a tracer which gives away the shooter's position. Also, the range is limited compared to the Sniper Rifle. It is also not effective against Sentinels, and does negligible damage against vehicles. Neither is it an effective weapon at close range, as the low fire rate and average stopping power of the weapon makes any fully-automatic weapon far superior in close-quarters combat.

Compared to most other UNSC firearms, those using the BR55 have access to limited amount of ammo as they can only three spare magazines, not including the loaded magazine in the rifle.

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.

BR55 battle rifles are used by Silver Team and other UNSC personnel in battles against the Covenant.[18]

Trivia[edit]

  • On the side of the BR55 opposite the charging handle there are two Chinese symbols, "猴王", which translate to "Monkey King".
  • On the level Quarantine Zone in Halo 2, the player can acquire a BR55 from a dead Marine that, when reloaded, can have a total of 236 spare rounds instead of the normal 108 spare rounds.
  • In the Halo 2 E3 Demo, the BR55 was the only weapon shown used in making a melee combo, a feature that was originally meant to be in the final version of the game but was scrapped. It was also shown firing semi-automatically in both the demo and in the E3 2004 multiplayer alpha demo, in which the semi-auto mode was engaged when zoomed.
  • Like the sniper rifle, the BR55 is modeled without a trigger in Halo 2.
  • The BR55 was featured in Bungie's 30th anniversary event as the solar pulse rifle BxR-55 Battler in Destiny 2.

Gallery[edit]

Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ The Halo Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to the Halo Universe claims that the BR55 battle rifle has a maximum effective range of 200 meters. However, this figure is unlikely given that most 21st century rifles have an effective range far greater than 200 meters. As such, this article assumes that the BR55 has the same range as its prototype, the XBR55.

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 168
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 318-319
  3. ^ a b c d e f Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 21
  4. ^ a b Halo: Contact Harvest, chapter 13
  5. ^ a b c d e f Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 305
  6. ^ Halo: Oblivion, chapter 9
  7. ^ Halo 2, Battle Rifle in-game weapon
  8. ^ a b Halo 2 manual, page 10
  9. ^ a b Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition manual, page 13
  10. ^ Halo Wars 2, campaign level Gatecrashers: Mission select artwork (File link)
  11. ^ Halo 5: Guardians, REQ card: Halo 2 Battle Rifle description "BR with Classic Sight. Reliable firepower never goes out of style. Battle Rifle with full-screen zoom."
  12. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 316
  13. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, DMR (Retrieved on Aug 21, 2011) [local archive] [external archive]
  14. ^ a b Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 171
  15. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 61
  16. ^ a b Halo: Collateral Damage, issue 1
  17. ^ Halo Waypoint, Battle Rifle (Retrieved on Jun 14, 2021) [archive]
  18. ^ YouTube - Paramount+, Halo The Series (2022) Official Trailer (Retrieved on Jan 30, 2022)

v • d • e
 
List of rifles and carbines used by humanity
MA series MA1 • MA2B • MA3A • MA40 (Longshot)
MA5 series variants MA37 • MA5B • MA5C • MA5D
Other assault rifles HMG-38 Monitor Rifle • VK78 Commando (Impact)
CM 300 • M6J/C • MA5K
BR55 series XBR55 • BR55 • BR55HB
BR75 series BR75 • BR75 Breacher
BR85 series BR85 • BR85HB • BR85N
Other BR series rifles BRXX Lightfire
Other battle rifles "Maestro"
M295 • M392 • M395 (M395B)
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