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BR55 battle rifle: Difference between revisions

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{{Ratings}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Era|TCP|H2|FS|GOO|HGN|RVB|}}
{{Weapon infobox
<center>''Were you looking for the [[Prototype BR-55]] Battle Rifle, used in [[Halo: Contact Harvest]], or the [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle]], used in [[Halo 3]]?''</center>
|image=[[File:H5G Render BR55 Service Rifle.png|300px]]
{{Weapon
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=168}}
|image=[[Image:BattleRifleAngles.JPG|300px]]
|series=BR55
|name=
|type=Bullpup [[battle rifle]]
|manufacturer=UNSC
|model=BR55  
|type=Combat Rifle
|cost=
|cost=
|size= Two-Handed
|variant=
*Weight: 8.3 lbs
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]]
|length: 89.9 centimeters or 35.4 inches
<br>[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|damage per hit: 6.0(Bullet)/18.0(Burst)
|Against shielded enemies: Medium
|Flesh damage: Medium(Body)-High(Head)
|Overall damage: Medium
|magazine=36 rounds
|maxammo=160 rounds or 4 magazines
|fire=Three-Round Burst, semi-automatic
|ammotype=*9.5x40mm [[M634 Experimental High-Powered Semi-Armor-Piercing]] (Halo 2)
*9.5x40mm KURZ (Halo 3)
*.374 Caliber rounds
|operation=Short-Stroke Gas-Operated Rotating-Bolt
|rate of fire=2.4 bursts per second
|accuracy=High
|range=Medium to Long range
|era=Introduced in 2525
|counterpart=[[Covenant Carbine]]
|counterwep=*At Close Range: [[Shotgun]], [[Energy Sword]]
|At Long Range: [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle|Sniper Rifle]], [[Beam Rifle]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|weight={{Convert|3.8|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}
|length={{Convert|89.9|cm|in}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc11}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}}
|ammotype=9.5×40mm [[M634 Experimental High-Powered Semi-Armor-Piercing]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|capacity=
|feed=36-round magazine{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|operation=[[wikipedia:Gas-operated#Short-stroke piston|Short-stroke piston]], [[wikipedia:Rotating bolt|rotating bolt]], [[wikipedia:Blowback (firearms)|locked breech]]
|velocity=
|optics=
|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.}}
}}
}}
{{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}}}}
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 [[United Nations Space Command]] infantry service rifle and is the older of the BR55 series rifles (the [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle|HB SR]] variant being the newest, phasing out the original in Halo 3). The BR55 is first seen in ''[[Halo 2]]''. It started active duty in 2525. It is most notable for its powerful three-round burst fire and accurate 2x scope, making it more efficient at farther ranges than the Assault Rifle.
==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}}


==Background==
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.
The BR55 Battle Rifle is a good, all-around weapon, being the much more accurate combat rifle that replaced the [[MA5B Assault Rifle]] from ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. It is the older variant of the [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle]] and is available in ''[[Halo 2]]''. It is the counterpart to the [[Covenant]]'s [[Type-51 Carbine]] and fires in three round bursts, similar to the modern M16A2 and M16A4 service rifles. It was designed for use during all combat situations.


==Summary==
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}}
The BR55 Battle Rifle, is a gas-operated, magazine-fed, mid-to-long range weapon capable of semi-automatic and burst-firing modes. Prototypes of the Battle Rifle were used in [[2525]] at [[Harvest]], but it entered active service in 2524. The weapon is capable of fully-automatic fire, but only the three-round burst mode is encountered in game. In Halo 2 the Battle Rifle fires the M634 9.5x40mm X-HP-SAP round from a 36-round magazine, though in Halo 3 the weapon utilizes the 9.5x40mm KURZ<ref>''[[The Art of Halo 3]]'', Page 57</ref>. Additionally, the weapon features a [[scope attachment]] capable of 2x magnification. It does reasonable damage to enemies, being able to kill most within a few bursts (normally four when enemy is fully shielded). Its accuracy and range are also reasonably high, being able to hit a target from medium to semi-long ranges. It is highly recommended to always have one on hand on higher difficulty levels.


====Advantages====
[[File:Whitebkgrdrifle.jpg|thumb|The BR55 was one of the standard infantry rifles of the UNSC during the Covenant war.]]
Use the "four-shot tactic": three to the body and one to the head. Designated the BR55 Battle Rifle, it has reasonably high power, a decent rate of fire, and high accuracy with an electronic 2x 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 a dot will appear in your reticule. This requires that only one of the three rounds, from a burst, actually hit 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.


====Disadvantages====
===Usage===
At longer ranges, it's 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. To avoid this, either swap it in for the Covenant version (Covenant Carbine), or get up to medium range. The Carbine has the same degree of firepower, and it lacks the splitting effect. 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).
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}}


The Battle Rifle 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 [[SRS99C S2-AMB|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.
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}}


The BR55 can have a certain disadvantage against [[Flood]] combat forms, in particular the Human variant. Both forms have a certain vulnerable spot on their bodies. This is the area of the body that the Infection Form has taken home in. For the [[Sangheili]] variant, this is the upper-center of the chest. The Human variant takes hold in the left shoulder area, noted by a large bump. The Combat Form can be brought down with a single shot by hitting this area, but the Battle Rifle is virtually useless shooting anywhere else.
==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}}


==Physical Description And Appearance==
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}}
The BR55 is of [[bullpup]] design that fires a three round burst from a 36 round magazine (fully-automatic on Harvest) UNSC rifle that fires the 9.5x40mm X-HP-SAP round (see below). The magazine housing is built directly into the underside of the stock of the weapon and is located behind the grip.


This titanium alloy weapon is gas-operated with a rotating bolt. Therefore, the charging handle must be racked before the first round can be fired; this will put a round into the barrel. The charging handle used to chamber the round is located on the left side of the weapon and does not move during operation. Once the first round is fired, the gases from that round—and those to follow—impinge upon a gas piston, which pushes back the bolt carrier, rotating the bolt inside and continuing to chamber rounds until the magazine is empty. Once the magazine is empty, the charging handle (even though not illustrated in-game) can either be pulled back and locked or it can be fully cycled after a fresh magazine has been housed. If it is pulled back and locked, then it must be pushed forward once a fresh magazine is housed to chamber a new round. The magazine release button is located on both sides of the gun with an arrow pointing down towards the housed mag in the stock. The ejection port is located on the right side of the weapon. There is also a fire selector on both sides of the ammo display.  
==Gameplay==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes}}
===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.


The BR55, having a rifled barrel, is 89.9cm long and is fitted with a scope for increased accuracy. The scope is mounted on the optics rail. The safety is also located above the handle of the weapon.
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.


==Ammunition==
===Disadvantages===
It is interesting to note the ammunition type used for the Battle Rifle. It uses a new [[9.5mm x 40|9.5 x 40mm]] Experimental Round. The [[Wikipedia:7.62×51 NATO|7.62 x 51 mm NATO]] round is a rather high-powered round used on the MA5B and on modern-day marksman rifles and machine guns. The 7.62 mm already has a history of having [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/7.62x51_NATO#Development too much recoil] because of the round's high power, which made it hard to fire in full-auto in assault rifles. Despite the Battle Rifle's shorter case size, the increase in diameter actually increases the amount of powder present. The level of recoil would be enough to drastically decrease accuracy and inhibit the ability to fire controlled bursts for standard Marines, although for Spartans it should not be a problem.
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).  


However, the size of the round would have a problem fitting in the 36-round magazine of the current Battle Rifle. If a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heckler_%26_Koch_G3 Heckler Koch G3] (which is chambered in 7.62 x 51mm) has a standard magazine count of 20 and be the size that it is, it would be hard to see a cartridge much wider than the 7.62mm fit inside of a magazine of the Battle Rifle's size and with a capacity of 36 rounds. The Battle Rifle's magazine would have to be about twice as long as it actually is to hold that many rounds. 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 7.62 x 51mm with a rather "small" magazine size, which looks to be smaller, than the Battle Rifle's magazine.
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.


==Combat Tactics==
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.
====Tactics For Covenant====
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
[[Image:Whitebkgrdrifle.jpg|thumb|The BR55 is an all-around infantry weapon for [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]] in Halo 2.]]
===Silver Timeline===
====[[Grunts]]====
{{Notice/Silver|category=no}}
Grunts are slow, clumsy, and lack any form of shielding. With a single head shot, it is possible to kill up to three Grunts in a group with one burst (though very unlikely) by sweeping the rifle slightly when firing. Shooting the methane tank is also mildly effective, often killing a grunt in one shot on Normal. If a head shot is difficult for the player to accomplish, one or two three-round bursts, followed by a melee, can also be effective. However on easy difficulty—provided that all bullets hit the Grunts—can usually be killed with one burst. They are only combat effective if they are veterans (clad in silver armor or are being led by a Brute or Elite). However, for larger groups, it is advisable to switch to the SMG or Plasma Rifle for the automatic fire effect.  They are weak enough to succumb to one-shotting, which can work if you're down on ammo.
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}}
 
====[[Jackals]]====
Not as effective against Jackals as with Grunts, given that the bullets bounce straight off a Jackal's Energy Shield. When confronted by a Jackal with its shield in defensive position, fire a well-placed shot through the small notch, and, as the Jackal recoils from the wound, finish it off with a head shot. Also, in close-quarters combat, it is recommended to first melee the Jackal and then finish it off with a head shot when it recoils from the blow. If playing multiplayer co-op, have one person distract it while the other moves around back and shoots it from there. Never aim for the body, as it will take 3-5 body-shots, in which duration leaves you vulnerable to other fire. One head shot will suffice.  Note: Jackal shields only cover the front of the Jackal.
 
====[[Jackal Snipers]]====
At medium range, the rifle is an effective anti-sniper weapon, giving suppressive or covering fire. Since sniper Jackals do not use shields, they can be easily dispatched with a well-placed head shot or a couple shots to the body. As always, it is important to always use proper cover when engaging a Jackal sniper. Be careful you don't get sniped if you are forced to 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, as a single shot anywhere will result in death.
 
====[[Elites]]====
The Elite's energy shield is a great defense to the Battle Rifle. On Normal difficulty, a basic Minor Elite takes four full bursts to the head to kill, while Major Elites take six and Zealots take twelve. However, unshielded Elites of any rank will die from a single head shot. Try to keep the rifle leveled at its head and keep firing until it falls dead. It is advisable to soften an Elite up with grenades, [[melee]] attacks, or a [[Plasma Pistol]]'s charged shot before engaging them with a Battle Rifle, especially on higher difficulties.
Another tactic is to use the button combination "BXR" on the lower difficulties.
 
====[[Brutes]]====
You can kill a Brute with three head shots, as the first two bursts will knock off the helmet, then the following headshot will kill the Brute. However, shooting a Brute in the torso is not particularly effective due to their extreme resilience. The [[Covenant Carbine]] is more effective for the job, although not as effective as other weapons.
 
====[[Hunters]]====
Dodge behind them, firing as many bursts as possible into their backs before they turn around. Be careful when fighting an enraged Hunter, as they can backhand you and kill you with a single strike. It can take quite a few bursts to kill a Hunter, however, especially on higher difficulty levels. It is not recommended for killing Hunters. A weapon such as the SMG, or, even better yet, a Sniper Rifle is better suited for this job.
 
====[[Drones]]====
The Battle Rifle is actually quite effective against Drones.  It only takes two to three bursts to kill them, even on Legendary in [[Halo 3]].  The Drones are not as agile as they are presumed to be and can be hit quite easily with a steady aim.  Also, when they land, they will not instantly take off if hit, so you have time to hit it again and kill it. While not the best weapon to take down Drones, it can effectively deal with smaller swarms. An SMG or Assault Rifle is much more suited to killing drones due to their extremely high rate of fire.
 
====[[Flood]]====
When fighting singular to hordes of [[Combat Forms]], aim for the [[Infection Form]] in their chest or "heart" to kill it in a single shot (This works in any Halo game; in Halo 2 it seems to take a few shots to hit it.). This will leave the body intact and ready to be taken over again, so it is advisable to shoot off or melee the arms when you have the opportunity. It is also possible, to kill a Combat Form by firing at the junction of the host's neck and the tentacles sprouting from its chest. If a Combat Form you are shooting at has shields, it will take much more to kill it. The Battle Rifle, is also effective for killing Infection Forms and [[Carrier Forms]]. Against shielded Combat forms, though, always melee, jump back (to avoid the deadly blow from the combat form), and then fire into the chest.
 
All in all, in Halo 2, this weapon is poor against The Flood unless you hit the Infection Form (Which is rather finicky; sometimes it will hit, sometimes it won't, and it takes more than half a magazine in body shots on Easy difficulty to kill one human combat form), so the dual SMG combo or an Energy Sword is the most suitable for them.
 
==Character Compatibility==
*[[Elites]]
*[[Spartans]]
*[[Cortana]] (only through [[modding]])
*[[Marines]]
*[[Brutes]] (a glitch seen on the level [[Gravemind (Level)|Gravemind]])
*[[Jackals]] (can be given to them on the level [[Sacred Icon]])
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Human)]]
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Elite)]]
*[[Flood]] [[Combat Form|Combat Form (Brute)]]
 
==Influence==
The BR55 is largely based on the QBZ-95 Chinese-designed assault rifle.  Introduced in 1995, the QBZ-95 represented a radical departure from previous Chinese infantry arms.  The new rifle used a bullpup configuration and was chambered for the lighter 5.85x42mm round.  Both the BR55 and the QBZ-95 also notably lack a fully automatic firing setting, but can similarly mount optional rifle accessories on the carrying handle. It also has some resemblance to the G36 and G36C. It also looks a lot like the XM8 due to the curved front and mounted scope instead of iron sights


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
[[Image:XM8 Assault Rifle.jpg|thumb|One of the many influences of the BR55 could have been the XM8.]]
*On the side of the BR55 opposite the charging handle there are two Chinese symbols, "猴王", which translate to ''"Monkey King"''.
*The Battle Rifle replaces the M6D, the pistol in Halo: Combat Evolved. Both have 2x magnification, but the M6D is more powerful, being able to take down a [[Grunt]], [[Hunter]] (only in exposed orange areas), or unwary [[Jackal]] with one round.
*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.
*On the side of the Battle Rifle, (opposite side to the charging handle) there are two Chinese symbols, "猴王", which translates to Monkey King. This is a nod to the [[M6D]], which has the Kanji symbol for [[7]] on the side.
*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.
*Its appearance seams to be a cross between the XM8 Carbine and the FAMAS assault rifle with details from other weapons as well.
*Like the [[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle#SRS99C-S2 AMB|sniper rifle]], the BR55 is modeled without a trigger in ''Halo 2''.
*The evolved Battle Rifle variant in ''Halo 3'' is called the BR55HB SR Battle Rifle.
*The BR55 was featured in Bungie's 30th anniversary event as the solar pulse rifle BxR-55 Battler in ''Destiny 2''.
*The Battle Rifle was originally supposed to shoot single rounds in its zoomed mode in Halo 2 based on the [[Zanzibar]] play video before its release; it was later changed to fire the normal three-round bursts.
*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."
*On the Level [[Quarantine Zone (Level)|Quarantine Zone]] in ''Halo 2'', the player can find a Battle Rifle from a dead UNSC Marine that, when reloaded, can have a total of 236 rounds of ammo total instead of the normal 108 spare rounds.
*On the level [[Outskirts]] in [[Halo 2]] near the turret, there is a Battle Rifle that have a total of 112 rounds of ammo.
*This weapon and the Plasma Pistol make the notorious [[Noob Combo]]. This was parodied in [[Another Day at the Beach]]. The "noob" combo is usually despised in Halo multiplayer matches and will get the "noob" a lot of insults. Oddly, using an M6D and Plasma Pistol is not frowned on, although they amount to the same thing.
*When the first prototype came out in 2525, it had 60 rounds per magazine.<ref>''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''</ref>
*In the Halo 2 E3 Demo, the Battle Rifle was the only weapon shown used in making a Melee Combo, originally meant to be in the Final Version but was scrapped. It was also shown firing semi-automatically (single shots).
*The Battle Rifle does not appear in ''Halo:Combat Evolved''. Via modding, it ''is'' in Halo:CE, and has two versions: a Halo 2 and Halo 3 version, which have different melee, reload, and HUD animations.
*It seems to be preferred weapon on Red vs Blue after they began to use ''Halo 2''.
*The maximum ammo that can be carried for a Battle Rifle is 144, including the ammo inside the magazine with 108 in magazines.
*The BR55 has been brought out in the form of a scaled replica for fans. They usually sell for about $20 US.
*If the rifle is aimed directly at a head, the cross hair will have a red cross in the center.  
*Much like the [[MA5B]] and the [[MA5C]], The BR55 and its newer variant, the [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle|HB SR]], has a screen with the number of rounds left in the magazine shown in bright blue text. A compass is absent from the screen, however.
*The barrel of the Battle Rifle in [[Halo 3]] has a longer barrel than the one in [[Halo 2]].
*If you zoom in on the battle rifle bullet-count in the hands of a marine, it says "36", a full magazine, even though they fire off shots it will still say "36".
*The Battle Rifle as seen if First Strike seems to be far more powerful than those seen in any of the games, being able to drop a shielded Elite with only a couple of bursts.
*The BR55's external appearance was based off of the Magnum from the [[Marathon]] series. Which can be supported by the fact that it sports the same smooth black exterior and blue lens scope as the Marathon Magnum.
 
==Related Pages==
*[[Prototype BR-55]] (The very first weapon of the Battle Rifle line)
*[[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle]] (Replaces the BR55 for ''Halo 3'')
*[[SMG]] (The weapon partnered with the BR55 to replace the Assault Rifle)
*[[MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System|MA5B Assault Rifle]] (The weapon in ''Halo: CE'', which was replaced by the BR55 and SMG)
*[[Covenant Carbine]] (The Covenant counterpart of the BR55)


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes}}
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:Flood_human_form.jpg|A [[Flood Combat Form]] wielding a Battle Rifle.
File:Spartan with Battle Rifle2.jpg|John-117 wielding a BR55 aboard ''[[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]]'' in ''[[Halo 2 announcement trailer]]''.
Image:Battle rifle -1.jpg|A Battle Rifle in an early Halo 2 build.
File:Battle_rifle -1.jpg|The BR55 in an early ''[[Halo 2]]'' build.
Image:Halo2.jpg|[[Master Chief]] firing a BR55 Battle Rifle in a Halo 2 wallpaper.
File:H2-BR55BattleRifleSide.png|A render of the BR55 from ''Halo 2''.
Image:Spartan with Battle Rifle2.jpg|Master Chief aboard the [[Cairo Station]] armed with a Battle Rifle.
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''.
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''.
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]]''.
File:HW_FloodMarine_Concept.jpg|Concept art of a Flood combat form with a BR55 for ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
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''.
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]]''.
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''.
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''.
File:H2ACP-BR55zoom.png|The 2× zoom on the BR55.
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.
File:H2AMP-BR55zoom.png|The 2× zoom on the BR55 on [[Bloodline]].
File:H5G-BR55HUD.png|First-person view of the BR55 in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:H5G-BR55zoom.png|[[Smart scope]] with the BR55 on [[Riptide]].
File:H2br.png|REQ Card of the BR55.
File:H5G-BR85NvsBR55.png|A BR85N in comparison to a BR55 in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
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''.
File:HM-DeltaHalo.jpg|John-117 using a BR55 on Installation 05 in ''[[Halo Mythos]]''
File:HW2-Shadows.png|A Spartan-II in [[Red Team]] using a BR55 in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
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]]''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==References==
==List of appearances==
<references/>
{{Col-begin}}
==Related Pages==
{{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}}
 
==Notes==
{{Ref/Notes}}
 
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}


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