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BR55 battle rifle: Difference between revisions

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{{Ratings}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Era|TCP|H2|FS|GOO|HGN|}}
{{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=144 rounds or 4 magazines
|fire=Three-Round Burst, semi-automatic
|ammotype=*9.5x40mm [[M634 Experimental High-Powered Semi-Armor-Piercing]]
*.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 (950 metres)<ref>Contact Harvest</ref>
|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, first seen in ''[[Halo 2]]'', although it has been in service since 2525. It is the older of the BR55 series rifles. 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}}


==Design Details==
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 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 canonically 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), and easily land headshots on unshielded targets, resulting in a one-hit kill. 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.  


The BR55 features a [[bullpup]] design that fires a three round burst from a 36 round magazine UNSC rifle that fires the 9.5x40mm X-HP-SAP round. The magazine housing is built directly into the underside of the stock of the weapon and is located behind the grip.  
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}}


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.  
[[File:Whitebkgrdrifle.jpg|thumb|The BR55 was one of the standard infantry rifles of the UNSC during the Covenant war.]]


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.
===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}}


===Ammunition===
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}}
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 [[wikipedia: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.


However, the size of the round would have a problem fitting in the 36-round magazine of the current Battle Rifle. If a [[wikipedia:Heckler_&_Koch_G3|Heckler Koch G3]] (which is chambered in 7.62 x 51mm) has a standard magazine capacity 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; a similar instance occurs with the MA5B. The MA5B has a magazine capacity of 60 rounds, chambered in 7.62 x 51mm, with a magazine size that appears even smaller than the Battle Rifle's magazine.
==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}}
==Gameplay==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes}}
===Advantages===
===Advantages===
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, indicating that you are aiming at their head. 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.
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.
 
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.


===Disadvantages===
===Disadvantages===
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 could 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).
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 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|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.
 
===Influence===
The BR55 is largely based on both the [[wikipedia:QBZ-95|QBZ-95 Chinese-designed assault rifle]] and [[Wikipedia:FAMAS|FAMAS French 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 and looks similar in appearances like the XM8 due to the curved front and mounted scope instead of iron sights. The FAMAS assault rifle is a bullpup configuration like the QBZ-95 and has been in service since 1978 and fires a 5.56x45mm NATO round.


==Tactics==
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.
===[[Campaign]]===
[[Image:Whitebkgrdrifle.jpg|thumb|The BR55 is an all-around infantry weapon for [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marines]] in [[Halo 2]].]]
*The BR55 is the all around go to weapon when facing [[Covenant]] forces, as it can effectively take down [[Grunt]]s and [[Jackal]]s with one well placed three shot burst to the head (torso shots require about two to four bursts to kill).
*Given that the bullets bounce straight off a Jackal's Energy Shield, fire a well-placed shot through the small notch on the shield's right, and, as the Jackal recoils from the wound, finish it off with a head shot.
*The Elite's energy shield is a great defense to the Battle Rifle. 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. On higher difficulties, the [[Noob_combo#Plasma_Pistol|Plasma Pistol/Battle Rifle Combo]] is extremely efficient, as it only requires one overcharge and a headshot against any Elite.
*You can kill a Brute with three head shots, as the first two bursts will knock off the helmet, and the following headshot will kill the Brute. However, shooting a Brute in any other area is not particularly effective due to their extreme resilience (on Heroic it takes about 17 3-round bursts, or one and a half magazines of battle rifle rounds, to bring down a Brute).
*When engaging a Hunter, dodge behind them, firing as many bursts as possible into their exposed orange sections before they turn around. &nbsp;


===[[Multiplayer]]===
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.
*The BR55 replaces the [[M6D]] from Halo:CE.  Most of the tactics remain the same; however, you do not need to lead your shots as much as the M6D due to the fact that the BR55 relies on a Hitscan mechanic.
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
*The BR55 paired with the [[Plasma Pistol]] makes a good [[Noob Combo|combo]]. Paired with a [[SRS99C-S2 AMB Sniper Rifle]] the Battle Rifle will flip the gap of medium to long range.
===Silver Timeline===
*Use the "four-shot tactic": three to the body and one to the head. This will result in a kill, as long as the opponent doesn't have an active Overshield.
{{Notice/Silver|category=no}}
<!--Please refrain from adding BXR or any button glitch to this part of the article, they are just that, a glitch, and while you may view it otherwise the creators have said otherwise since there is no button combo in Halo 3. If you wish to add BXR please visit: http://h2.halowiki.net/p/Main_Page-->
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}}


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*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.
*On the side of the BR55 opposite the charging handle there are two Chinese symbols, "猴王", which translate to ''"Monkey King"''.
*The BR55's first canonical appearance was in [[Joseph Staten]]'s novel [[Halo: Contact Harvest]] in the novel it is explained that the first prototype came out in 2525. It has a 60 round magazine,<ref>[[Halo: Contact Harvest]], page 132-133</ref> after the conflict at Harvest the UNSC standardized the BR55 for field deployment.
*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 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.
*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.
*The notorious [[Noob Combo]] is used in the ''Halo 2'' cinematic [[Another Day at the Beach]].
*Like the [[SRS99C-S2 AM sniper rifle#SRS99C-S2 AMB|sniper rifle]], the BR55 is modeled without a trigger in ''Halo 2''.
*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 [[Halo 2|final version]] 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 in zoomed mode.
*The BR55 was featured in Bungie's 30th anniversary event as the solar pulse rifle BxR-55 Battler in ''Destiny 2''.
*The maximum ammo that can be carried for a Battle Rifle is 144, including the ammo inside the magazine with 108 in the spare magazines.
*Much like the [[MA5B]] and the [[MA5C]], the BR55 and its newer variant, the [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle]], 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.
*Although the BR55 fires three-round bursts, it is possible to find one in which the number of rounds left in the magazine is not divisible by 3. This means that the final burst of the magazine will be just one or two shots.


==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>


==Sources==
==List of appearances==
<references/>
{{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}}


==Links==
==Notes==
===Internal===
{{Ref/Notes}}
*[[Prototype BR-55]] (The very first weapon of the Battle Rifle line)
*[[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle]] (Replaces the BR55 in ''Halo 3'')


==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{UNSC Infantry Weapons}}
{{UNSC rifles}}
[[Category:Rifles]]
[[Category:Rifles]]
[[Category:Held Weapons]]
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:Human]]
[[Category:Halo 2]]
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Assault rifles]]

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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