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M6D magnum: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|H1|H2|FOR|TF|FS|HGN}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Nominated}}
{{Weapon infobox
{{Weapon
|image=[[File:H5G-M6DMagnumPistol.png|300px]]
| image=[[Image:M6DPistol.jpg|300px]]
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]
| name=M6D Pistol
|series=[[M6 series]]
| manufacturer=Misriah Armory
|type=
| model=Model 6D Magnum Sidearm ([[M6|M6 Series]])
|cost=
| type=Pistol
|variant=
| cost=
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]]
| size=Handheld, Two handed
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
*length: 26.7 centimeters
|weight=
| damage per hit=*High (against shielded enemies)
|length={{Convert|26.70|cm|in}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=164}}
*Very high (Flesh damage)
|ammotype=[[12.7x40mm|12.7×40mm]]{{Ref/Reuse|SilentStorm15}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
*Overall Damage: High
|capacity=12 rounds
| magazine=12 rounds
|feed=12-round [[Wikipedia:Magazine (firearms)#Detachable box magazines|detachable box magazine]]{{Ref/Reuse|H5GWarzone}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
| maxammo=132 rounds or 11 magazines
|operation=[[Wikipedia:Recoil operation|Recoil-operated]]{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}
| fire=Automatic (slow-firing) or Semi-automatic
|rate=[[Wikipedia:Semi-automatic firearm|Semi-automatic]], [[Wikipedia:Automatic firearm|fully-automatic]]{{Ref/Reuse|hammerstorm}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
| ammotype= 12.7x40mm [[M225 SAPHE]] (Semi Armor Piercing, High Explosive)/.450 Magnum Caliber Rounds
|velocity=
| operation=Short Recoil Principle
|optics=[[Smart-linking|Smart-linked]] [[KFA-2 x2]] scope{{Ref/Site|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3pistol|Site=Bungie.net|Page=The M6G Pistol|D=24|M=01|Y=2021|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M6G}}
| rate of fire=3.5 rounds per second
|range=
| accuracy=High
| range=Close to Medium, and somewhat Long
| era=
| counterpart= [[Plasma Pistol]]
| counterwep=*@ Close Range: [[M90 Shotgun]]
*@ Mid-Long Range: [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle]]
| affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
}}
}}
{{Quote|I don't keep it loaded, son. You'll have to find ammo as you go.|[[Jacob Keyes]] after giving his M6D to [[John-117]].{{Ref/Reuse|HCElvl1}}}}
The '''M6D Personal Defense Weapon System''',{{Ref/Book|AoH|Page=99}} commonly referred to as the '''M6D Pistol'''{{Ref/Book|Id=CEM|Halo: Combat Evolved manual|Page=17}}, is a [[United Nations Space Command]] firearm and one of the variants of [[Misriah Armory]]'s [[M6 series|M6]] handgun series.{{Ref/Book|Id=ENC321|Enc11|Page=321}}


The '''M6D Pistol''' is a [[United Nations Space Command]] sidearm and is one of the variants of [[Misriah Armory]]'s [[M6]] sidearm series.
==Overview==
[[File:Pistol.png|thumb|left|x150px|M6D Schematic view]]
===Design details===
The M6D is a recoil-operated, magazine-fed handgun,{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}} chambered in [[12.7x40mm]] ammunition, typically employed with [[12.7x40mm#M225 SAP-HE|semi-armor-piercing, high-explosive (SAPHE) rounds]] of that chambering, and feeding from 12-round detachable box magazines.{{Ref/Game|Id=HCE|HCE|[[Halo: Combat Evolved Pistol]] in-game weapon}}{{Ref/Reuse|ENC321}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} It has also been known to be chambered in the .450 Magnum load.{{Ref/Novel|Id=TFoR20|HTFoR|Chapter=20}} The weapon is somewhat unusual for a handgun in that it is capable of both semi-automatic and automatic firing.{{Ref/Site|Id=hammerstorm|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/games/halo-5-guardians/updates/hammer-storm|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Hammer Storm|D=13|M=3|Y=2016}}{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} The M6D is one of the M6 series' upscaled variants,{{Ref/Reuse|ENC321}} being larger than non-upscaled M6s by roughly 117%.{{Ref/Site|Id=BNetODST|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx|Site=Bungie.net|Page=Halo 3 ODST : Field Guide - Auto Mag|D=25|M=05|Y=2013|LocalArchive=Archive:Bungie.net/Halo 3: ODST: Field Guide#Ordnance}} The M6D is also an officer's model, and in this capacity was employed by Captain [[Jacob Keyes]] on the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}.{{Ref/Level|Id=HCElvl1|HCE|Pillar of Autumn (Level)|Pillar of Autumn}}{{Ref/Reuse|ENC321}} Like other officer's model M6s, the weapon is fitted with smart-linked [[KFA-2 x2|KFA-2 optic]] for utilization by those employing a [[heads-up display]].{{Ref/Reuse|ENC321}}{{Ref/Book|Id=EVG|EVG|Page=116}}


== Overview ==
M6Ds are produced with a distinctive hard chrome finish.{{Ref/Reuse|ENC321}} The M6D is relatively distinctive among the M6 family, most notable for the brown hue of the grip, which features small bumps across its surface. The length of the magazine, which integrates a prominent grip extension, makes the weapon appear comparatively very large. Various [[Pistol Kanji|kanji]] characters can be observed in different locations on its body.{{Ref/Reuse|HCE}}{{Ref/Reuse|H5GWarzone}}


The M6D pistol is a recoil-operated, magazine-fed handgun.<ref name="Library">[http://library.psyjnir.net/?id=408 Halo Library]</ref> It is a jack-of-all-trades, capable of being used in any situation. It fires highly explosive bullets with a fast rate of fire and good accuracy and is very effective at all ranges. The M6D, fitted with a [[KFA-2 x2]] scope <ref> http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3pistol </ref>, is very accurate over long distance. Combined with its very high power, this makes it a great sniping weapon.<ref name="Sector">[http://www.sector7-halo.com/halo/weapons/pistol.php Sector 7 — Pistol]</ref> This weapon is a member of the UNSC M6 pistol family, along with the [[M6C Magnum]] featured in ''[[Halo 2]]'' and the [[M6G Magnum]] introduced in ''[[Halo 3]]''.<ref>[http://carnage.bungie.org/haloforum/halo.forum.pl?read=797167 Halo.Bungie.Org Forum]</ref>
===Functionality===
[[File:M6D Open.png|thumb|left|250px|An empty M6D with its slide locked back.]]
As with most human weapons, the M6D is discharged when a trigger positioned at the top of the grip is depressed by the index finger. The energy of the expanding propellant gasses from the cartridge causes the slide to reciprocate into the open position, expelling the spent casing of the round just fired. The weapon's recoil mechanism then moves the slide back into place, stripping a fresh round from the magazine and chambering it to make the weapon ready to fire once again. This process occurs with almost imperceptible speed and can be repeated with successive trigger-pulls until the weapon is emptied,{{Ref/Reuse|H5GWarzone}} at which point the slide will lock back,{{Ref/Novel|Id=SilentStorm3|HSS|Chapter=3}} awaiting the insertion of another magazine. When a fresh magazine is inserted, the slide will then travel forward when the user presses the [[Wikipedia: Slide stop|Slide release]], stripping the first round from the magazine and chambering it. If the weapon is reloaded before it is completely empty, this process will not occur as the cycle of the slide is uninterrupted. When the weapon is employed in its fully-automatic fire-mode, the trigger does not need to be repeatedly pulled for continuous firing.<ref name="H5GWarzone">''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'', [[Warzone]] gameplay</ref> To prevent accidental firing, the weapon has a safety mechanism which is manually engaged when the firearm is not in active use.{{Ref/Reuse|Flood2}}


=== Ammunition ===
To utilize the weapon's KFA-2 optic, the user must be equipped with headwear or eyewear capable of displaying a [[heads-up display]] via a [[Smart-linking|smart-link]].{{Ref/Reuse|EVG}} When activated, the weapon projects the view from the scope at x2 magnification on the user's visor with a circular targeting reticle.{{Ref/Reuse|H5GWarzone}}{{Ref/Reuse|HCE}}


The M6D uses 12.7x40mm [[M225 SAPHE]] (Semi Armor Piercing High Explosive) .50 Caliber Ammunition Magnum loads.<ref name="Equipment">General Equipment Guide from Bungie</ref> The rounds are capable of being propelled from the gun at decent projectile velocity and penetrating metalloid armor. The bullets, which contain an explosive compound, detonate inside an enemy's body and leave horrible internal wounds. The rounds, cutting through armor and damaging the unprotected cranium, are effective against all enemies. One headshot will kill any unshielded enemy, and a single shot to the exposed flesh kills a Hunter. Several rounds will kill any [[Flood]] [[Combat Form]], while it takes two rounds to destroy a [[Carrier Form]], and, like any other weapon, will kill an [[Infection Form]] in one shot. The rounds are also effective against armored vehicles, causing damage to the driver and metallic plating.
===Performance===
[[File:HCEA-Concept-PoA-Chief-Profile.jpg|thumb|x250px|[[John-117]] making use of [[Jacob Keyes]]' M6D on the ''[[Pillar of Autumn]]''.]]
The performance of the M6D has been repeatedly indicated to rely heavily on proficiency of its user. [[John-117]] believed that, in the hands of someone who knew how to operate it, the M6D possessed a great deal of stopping power and was one of the [[UNSC]]'s most effective infantry weapons, being almost as effective as an [[MA5 series|assault rifle]] when firing SAPHE ammunition.{{Ref/Novel|Id=SilentStorm15|HSS|Chapter=15}} Likewise, a proficient shooter can also use the M6D to engage targets from a surprising distance when making use of the mounted KFA-2 optic. Its aptitude in this application is so great that, circumstantially, it is preferable to pick off lightly-protected semi-distant enemy targets with this weapon than an assault rifle.{{Ref/Novel|Id=Flood1|HTF|Chapter=3}}


==Advantages==
As with many non-specialized human firearms, this weapon can be somewhat inefficient against targets equipped with [[Energy shielding|personal energy shielding]], requiring in one instance the expenditure of a full magazine to incapacitate an [[elite minor]].{{Ref/Novel|Id=Flood2|HTF|Chapter=2}} However, headshots with the weapon can be very effective,{{Ref/Reuse|Flood1}} making careful shot placement of high importance when engaging [[Covenant]] forces.{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}} They are, of course, not very effective at engaging Covenant vehicles, with rounds fired from the weapon simply ricocheting off the exterior of targets such as the {{Pattern|Ekesan|Umbra}} troop transport.{{Ref/Novel|Id=Oblivion13|Oblv|Chapter=13}}
The M6D Pistol's 2x zoom ability makes it a passable sniping weapon. It is second only to the sniper rifle in accuracy and range. It can kill an unshielded opponent with a headshot. Although the pistol is automatic, holding down the fire button diminishes the accuracy of the pistol's shots. This weapon does well against lightly-armored vehicles at medium range. It has maximum effect and is extremely deadly when the target has no shields, though it is still very effective even if your enemy is shielded. The M6D is very effective against all types of Covenant and Flood (see "Strategies" section below).


The M6D pistol is very accurate and versatile and is effective at all ranges up to its 123 meter limit. The M6D only takes three headshots to kill in multiplayer, which, combined with its rate of fire, makes it one of the strongest weapons in the game. Many players consider the pistol and the [[SRS99C-S2 AM Sniper Rifle|Sniper Rifle]] the best overall weapons in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.so pick the M6D if you want to have a blast guning down other players the M6D however is one of the best weapons for dealing with [[hunters]] one shot in the weak spot from behind will kill it
==Operational history==
The M6D saw a significant amount of service throughout the [[Human-Covenant War]], and was largely unrivalled in its use - with a notorious reputation among UNSC service personnel.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} It was used by [[SPARTAN-II]] operatives throughout [[Operation: SILENT STORM]] and the subsequent [[Skirmish over Netherop|mission to Netherop]] in [[2526]].{{Ref/Reuse|SilentStorm15}}{{Ref/Reuse|Oblivion13}} Spartans continued to use the weapon, this time chambered in .450 Magnum ammo, during the [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV]].{{Ref/Reuse|TFoR20}} Most notable, however, is its usage during the [[Battle of Installation 04]]. Throughout the engagement, it was employed heavily by [[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC marines]] and [[UNSC Navy|Navy personnel]].{{Ref/Reuse|HCE}} Captain [[Jacob Keyes]] notably offered his M6D to [[John-117]] to use to evacuate [[Cortana]] from the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}, which he then went on to utilize on the surface of the ring.{{Ref/Reuse|Flood2}}


==Disadvantages==
==Production notes==
Some claim the pistol to be "overpowered", citing its three-hit-kill possibility with consistent headshots. However, while the M6D is extremely powerful and versatile, it is not the strongest weapon in the game. For close to mid range, the pistol is superceded by the [[Rocket Launcher]], although the wielder of the rocket launcher is likely to kill himself along with his target at close range. The shotgun also overpowers the pistol at very close range (<5 meters) due to its ability to kill in one shot within that range. Finally, the pistol does have a limited, albeit long, range, which is about 123 meters (auto-aim cuts off on the pistol past about 90-95 meters). The pistol is useless past this range, allowing the sniper rifle to dominate. However, this is usually only a factor on large stages like Blood Gulch or Sidewinder.
The pistol went through [[Cut Halo: Combat Evolved weapons#Pistol|many changes]] to its visual design throughout the [[Development of Halo: Combat Evolved|development of ''Halo: Combat Evolved'']]. In one of these early renditions, the weapon was named the ''50 Magnum Mega Class M4A'' - a reference to the [[marathongame:.44 Magnum Mega Class|.44 Magnum Mega Class]] present in ''[[Marathon]]''.{{Ref/Marketing|Bungie|Bungie ViDoc: O Brave New World}} In ''Halo 2'' the pistol was functionally replaced with the [[BR55 battle rifle]], with ''[[The Art of Halo: Creating a Virtual World|The Art of Halo]]'' noting that ''Halo 2'' now featured "''a [[Battle Rifle|rifle]] that handles like a rifle, a [[Pistol|pistol]] that handles like a pistol, and an [[SMG]] that handles like an SMG.''.{{Ref/Book|AoH|Page=103}}


==Influences==
===''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary'' depiction===
[[File:Modified M6G2.png|thumb|An M6D as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.]]
In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'', the M6D is represented by a repurposed ''[[Halo 3]]'' [[M6G2 magnum]] model, with markings on the weapon changed to reflect that it is an M6D. It features a black, smooth grip, a shorter magazine, and is polished to a higher sheen than the more prominent depiction from ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' and ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''. In all respects save for the "M6D" marking on the slide, it resembles the M6G2.{{Ref/Game|Id=CEA|HCEA|in-game model}} In early production of the game, the model for the [[M6G magnum]] from ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' was used as a placeholder for the weapon, and can be seen in several early screenshots (including the game's cover art).


One possible influence is the [[wikipedia:Desert Eagle|Desert Eagle]]. Though their outward appearances are different, both weapons are almost the exact same size and are the same caliber. Another possible influence on the design of this weapon was the [[Wikipedia: FP-45 Liberator|FP-45 Liberator]], a weapon designed in the United States during World War II.  The long handle, but short barrel as well as the covered hand-grip are obvious features.
The M6D was functionally recreated in the [[Anniversary Map Pack|multiplayer component]] of ''Anniversary'', for use in specific playlists in ''[[Halo: Reach]]''. The weapon retains the model, sounds, and animations of ''Reach''{{'}}s standard M6G pistol, but has damage values tweaked to allow for a 3-shot kill similar to its performance in the original ''Combat Evolved''.{{Ref/Marketing|HCEA|BTS: Anniversary Multiplayer}}


Also, the pistol weapon in Marathon, Bungie's previous FPS, had a visible scope. It is possible this is were Bungie's idea of giving a pistol a scope originated.
===Easter eggs===
*The M6D has [[Pistol Kanji|Japanese kanji]] (the character "[[Seven]]") written on it. In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'', this has been changed to Korean hangul which still stands for "Seven".
*A lone M6D appears as an easter egg in ''[[Halo 2]]'' on the map [[Tombstone]]; it (and an accompanying pistol crate) can be seen behind the fenced-off section that raises over the central trench on the map. The weapon is model-only, and has no gameplay functionality.
*The M6D was featured in Bungie's 30th anniversary as the exotic sidearm Forerunner in ''Destiny 2'' obtained by reaching Brave I in Dares of Eternity. The Catalyst upgrade for the gun allows Guardians to throw a frag grenade after achieving a kill with the Forerunner, and when obtaining it, multiversal agent Xûr implies that he retrieved the sidearm and its upgrade from the ''Pillar of Autumn''.


==Strategies==
==Gallery==
 
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M6D magnum|gameplay=yes}}
===Campaign===
<gallery>
[[Image:PoA Crewmen.jpg|thumb|A [[Crewman]] using a M6D Pistol.|left|175px]]
File:M6d-pistol.jpg|A view of the M6D in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
 
File:M6D SAP.jpg|Front and Back views of the M6D.
The pistol's accuracy, range, ability to zoom, and high damage per hit make it an ideal weapon against all [[Covenant]] and Flood. Its accuracy easily achieves a shot centered on the alien's head, guaranteeing "immediate and total incapacitation."<ref>[http://halo.neoseeker.com/halo/Xbox/pages/weaponsaa/ Weapons - Halo - Neoseeker]</ref><ref>''Halo: Combat Evolved'' Manual</ref> Due to the pistol's large reserve ammo capacity and ability to kill unshielded enemies with a single headshot, it's possible to kill 132 Grunts, Jackals, or [[Stealth Elite|Stealth Elites]]. It can also kill over a dozen shielded Elites on a full load.
File:Halo 1 pistol.png|A view of the M6D Pistol being held.
 
File:HCE-M6DMagnumPistol.png|An in-game profile view of the M6D from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
The M6D is also rather effective against Elites. On Normal difficulty, six headshots will kill a fully-shielded Minor Elite, while eight will kill a Major Elite and ten will kill a SpecOps Elite. It is not as effective against Zealots, as thier shields are twice as strong as those of a Major Elite. The user can kill an [[Elite]] even easier by bringing down its shields with the [[Plasma Pistol]] and then shooting it in the head with the Pistol. This technique is reminiscent of the [[Noob Combo]] in ''Halo 2'' (Plasma Pistol/Magnum, or Plasma Pistol/Battle Rifle). The M6D Pistol is extremely effective against [[Hunter]]s, killing them with one shot to their exposed orange flesh. This works possibly because the explosive rounds ignite their inner worm-like organisms, causing severe trauma to the whole creature.
File:HaloCE-M6DAmmopack.png|The ammunition pack for the M6D.
 
File:Pistol1.jpg|John firing an M6D.
Employed against the [[Flood]], the pistol is useful for eliminating any Form. It can kill a Combat Form in several shots, Carrier Forms in two shots, and Infection Forms in one shot. Despite this, some players may consider using the M6D Pistol against the Flood to be relatively ineffective. Although it kills individual Flood quickly, its small magazine and modest rate of fire makes it less effective at killing large group of Flood.
File:M6D fire.jpg|The M6D with its slide opened.
 
File:HCE M6D FirstPerson.jpg|First-person view of the M6D in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
===Multiplayer===
File:PistolScope-cropped.png|The 2× telescopic sight of an M6D Magnum Pistol from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
 
File:H2_Tombstone_M6D.png|The M6D in the ''Halo 2'' map [[Tombstone]].
In long range, zoom in and shoot at an easy, still target. If the opponent notices you, shoot rapidly, but do not hold the trigger down (this reduces accuracy). For close range, unload a lot of rounds into your enemy, aiming for the head. If someone is moving sideways though, you will have to lead your target. In other words, the bullet will not hit unless you shoot where the target is going to be, not where they are at the exact moment you pull the trigger. The best way to take someone down when they are moving sideways is to go for two body shots and then a headshot. The first two shots to the body will deplete the shields — damage to shields is the same regardless of where the shots hit — while the following headshot will be lethal.<ref>[http://strategywiki.org/wiki/Halo:_Combat_Evolved/Weapons ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' Weapons - StrategyWiki]</ref> Move closer and closer towards the enemy unless they have a [[M90 Assault Shotgun|Shotgun]] or a [[M7057 Defoliant Projector Flamethrower|Flamethrower]]. The M6D Pistol is also good against a [[Banshee]]. If you keep your ground, an opponent in a Banshee can be killed easily. Just take their shields down with the pistol, and finish them off with an AR or Shotgun, preferably the Shotgun, though, because Shotguns can blow them out of the Banshee in one close hit once their shields are down. Even though the pistol is a great weapon, if not the best weapon overall, it can be even more effective when used in conjunction with other weapons.
File:H2_Tombstone_M6DCrate.png|The M6D storage crate in the ''Halo 2'' map Tombstone.
 
File:Pistol_Label.jpg|Unobstructed view of Tombstone's crate.
<center>
File:HCEA-M6DMagnumPistol-Scope.jpg|The M6D's 2× scope when zoomed in ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.
{|style="margin: .5em 0 .5em 0;font-size:85%;" id=toc
File:H5G-WIPM6D.png|The M6D model (on the left) being developed for ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
!align=center bgcolor=#6699CC colspan=2|'''''Combos with the M6D Pistol'''''
File:M6d_wip.jpg|A work in progress model of the M6D PDWS for ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
|-
File:H5G-M6DHUD.png|First-person view of the M6D in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
||Shotgun|| Use the pistol for long range and the shotgun for close.
File:H5G-MarkIV&M6D.png|A [[Spartan-IV]] using an M6D on a [[Forge]] remake of [[Battle Creek]].
|-
File:H5G-HaloCEPistol.png|REQ Card of the M6D in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
||Plasma Pistol|| Charge up the Plasma Pistol, hit the enemy, and take care of the opponent with the M6D Pistol.
File:H5G-M6H2vsM6D.png|An M6H2 in comparison to an M6D in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
|-
File:H5G-M6DMagnumPistol-Side.png|Side view the M6D in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
||Sniper Rifle|| Use the Sniper Rifle for long range and pistol for mid and close range.
File:H5G Multiplayer M6DDraw.png|A Spartan racking the slide of an M6D in ''Halo 5: Guardians'' multiplayer.
|}
File:H5G-M6Dzoom.png|The targeting view of a [[KFA-2 x2|KFA-2 optic]] on an M6D in ''Halo 5: Guardians'' multiplayer.
</center>
File:H5G-Stance-OldSchool.png|The Old School [[stance]] includes the M6D.
 
File:PF M6DMagnum Screenshot.png|A close-up of the M6D created as a part of [[Project Foundry]]
==Appearances==
</gallery>
The M6D Pistol has only appeared in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. It's predecessor, the M6C Pistol, essentially a stripped down variant, was used in ''Halo 2'', though the M6D was seen as an Easter Egg in [[Tombstone]]. A variant of this weapon, the M6G Magnum, appears in ''Halo 3''. It has the same design but lacks scope. The core gameplay changed remarkably in the sequels due to the omission of the M6D pistol. In the original game, the pistol was effective in all situations (close confrontation, long range sniping, mid-range combat) in the hands of a veteran. However, this was claimed by many to have constrained variety. The [[BR55 Battle Rifle|Battle Rifle]] and [[Covenant Carbine|Carbine]] taking on the role of mid-range weapons, as well as various other additions and changes, made for more variety in Halo 2 and Halo 3.
 
<center>
{|style="margin: .5em 0 .5em 0;font-size:85%; width: 400px;" id="toc"
|-
|style="width: 33%;"|[[Image:M6D pistol large.jpg|65px|center]]
|[[Image:M6C Magnum Sidearm.jpg|100px|center]]
|style="width: 33%;"|[[Image:M6G Pistol.jpg|100px|center]]
|-
|colspan=3 style="text-align: center;"|A M6D Pistol with its ''Halo 2'' and ''Halo 3'' counterparts, the [[M6C Magnum]] and the [[M6G Magnum]].
|}
</center>
 
 
==See also==
 
*[[M6C Magnum]]
*[[M6G]]
*[[Pistol Kanji]]


==List of appearances==
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[The Mona Lisa]]''
**''[[Palace Hotel]]''
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]''
*''[[Halo Infinite: Memory Agent]]''
*''[[Halo Infinite]]'' {{C|Weapon charm only}}
{{Col-end}}
==Sources==
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}


<references/>
{{Navbox/Universe/HumanSidearms/M6Pistols}}
 
[[Category:Pistols]]
 
{{WepList}}
 
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Held Weapons]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:Human Weapons]]

Latest revision as of 06:51, November 13, 2024

M6D magnum
H5G-M6DMagnumPistol.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory

Model series:

M6 series

Specifications

Length:

26.70 centimetres (10.51 in)[1]

Ammunition type:

12.7×40mm[2][1]

Capacity:

12 rounds

Feed system:

12-round detachable box magazine[3][1]

Operation:

Recoil-operated[4]

Rate of fire:

Semi-automatic, fully-automatic[5][1]

Optics:

Smart-linked KFA-2 x2 scope[6]

Service history

In service:

Human-Covenant War

 

"I don't keep it loaded, son. You'll have to find ammo as you go."
— Jacob Keyes after giving his M6D to John-117.[7]

The M6D Personal Defense Weapon System,[8] commonly referred to as the M6D Pistol[4], is a United Nations Space Command firearm and one of the variants of Misriah Armory's M6 handgun series.[9]

Overview[edit]

M6D Schematic view

Design details[edit]

The M6D is a recoil-operated, magazine-fed handgun,[4] chambered in 12.7x40mm ammunition, typically employed with semi-armor-piercing, high-explosive (SAPHE) rounds of that chambering, and feeding from 12-round detachable box magazines.[10][9][1] It has also been known to be chambered in the .450 Magnum load.[11] The weapon is somewhat unusual for a handgun in that it is capable of both semi-automatic and automatic firing.[5][4][1] The M6D is one of the M6 series' upscaled variants,[9] being larger than non-upscaled M6s by roughly 117%.[12] The M6D is also an officer's model, and in this capacity was employed by Captain Jacob Keyes on the UNSC Pillar of Autumn.[7][9] Like other officer's model M6s, the weapon is fitted with smart-linked KFA-2 optic for utilization by those employing a heads-up display.[9][13]

M6Ds are produced with a distinctive hard chrome finish.[9] The M6D is relatively distinctive among the M6 family, most notable for the brown hue of the grip, which features small bumps across its surface. The length of the magazine, which integrates a prominent grip extension, makes the weapon appear comparatively very large. Various kanji characters can be observed in different locations on its body.[10][3]

Functionality[edit]

An empty M6D with its slide locked back.

As with most human weapons, the M6D is discharged when a trigger positioned at the top of the grip is depressed by the index finger. The energy of the expanding propellant gasses from the cartridge causes the slide to reciprocate into the open position, expelling the spent casing of the round just fired. The weapon's recoil mechanism then moves the slide back into place, stripping a fresh round from the magazine and chambering it to make the weapon ready to fire once again. This process occurs with almost imperceptible speed and can be repeated with successive trigger-pulls until the weapon is emptied,[3] at which point the slide will lock back,[14] awaiting the insertion of another magazine. When a fresh magazine is inserted, the slide will then travel forward when the user presses the Slide release, stripping the first round from the magazine and chambering it. If the weapon is reloaded before it is completely empty, this process will not occur as the cycle of the slide is uninterrupted. When the weapon is employed in its fully-automatic fire-mode, the trigger does not need to be repeatedly pulled for continuous firing.[3] To prevent accidental firing, the weapon has a safety mechanism which is manually engaged when the firearm is not in active use.[15]

To utilize the weapon's KFA-2 optic, the user must be equipped with headwear or eyewear capable of displaying a heads-up display via a smart-link.[13] When activated, the weapon projects the view from the scope at x2 magnification on the user's visor with a circular targeting reticle.[3][10]

Performance[edit]

John-117 making use of Jacob Keyes' M6D on the Pillar of Autumn.

The performance of the M6D has been repeatedly indicated to rely heavily on proficiency of its user. John-117 believed that, in the hands of someone who knew how to operate it, the M6D possessed a great deal of stopping power and was one of the UNSC's most effective infantry weapons, being almost as effective as an assault rifle when firing SAPHE ammunition.[2] Likewise, a proficient shooter can also use the M6D to engage targets from a surprising distance when making use of the mounted KFA-2 optic. Its aptitude in this application is so great that, circumstantially, it is preferable to pick off lightly-protected semi-distant enemy targets with this weapon than an assault rifle.[16]

As with many non-specialized human firearms, this weapon can be somewhat inefficient against targets equipped with personal energy shielding, requiring in one instance the expenditure of a full magazine to incapacitate an elite minor.[15] However, headshots with the weapon can be very effective,[16] making careful shot placement of high importance when engaging Covenant forces.[4] They are, of course, not very effective at engaging Covenant vehicles, with rounds fired from the weapon simply ricocheting off the exterior of targets such as the Ekesan-pattern Umbra troop transport.[17]

Operational history[edit]

The M6D saw a significant amount of service throughout the Human-Covenant War, and was largely unrivalled in its use - with a notorious reputation among UNSC service personnel.[1] It was used by SPARTAN-II operatives throughout Operation: SILENT STORM and the subsequent mission to Netherop in 2526.[2][17] Spartans continued to use the weapon, this time chambered in .450 Magnum ammo, during the Battle of Sigma Octanus IV.[11] Most notable, however, is its usage during the Battle of Installation 04. Throughout the engagement, it was employed heavily by UNSC marines and Navy personnel.[10] Captain Jacob Keyes notably offered his M6D to John-117 to use to evacuate Cortana from the UNSC Pillar of Autumn, which he then went on to utilize on the surface of the ring.[15]

Production notes[edit]

The pistol went through many changes to its visual design throughout the development of Halo: Combat Evolved. In one of these early renditions, the weapon was named the 50 Magnum Mega Class M4A - a reference to the .44 Magnum Mega Class present in Marathon.[18] In Halo 2 the pistol was functionally replaced with the BR55 battle rifle, with The Art of Halo noting that Halo 2 now featured "a rifle that handles like a rifle, a pistol that handles like a pistol, and an SMG that handles like an SMG..[19]

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary depiction[edit]

An M6D as it appears in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

In Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, the M6D is represented by a repurposed Halo 3 M6G2 magnum model, with markings on the weapon changed to reflect that it is an M6D. It features a black, smooth grip, a shorter magazine, and is polished to a higher sheen than the more prominent depiction from Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 5: Guardians. In all respects save for the "M6D" marking on the slide, it resembles the M6G2.[20] In early production of the game, the model for the M6G magnum from Halo: Reach was used as a placeholder for the weapon, and can be seen in several early screenshots (including the game's cover art).

The M6D was functionally recreated in the multiplayer component of Anniversary, for use in specific playlists in Halo: Reach. The weapon retains the model, sounds, and animations of Reach's standard M6G pistol, but has damage values tweaked to allow for a 3-shot kill similar to its performance in the original Combat Evolved.[21]

Easter eggs[edit]

  • The M6D has Japanese kanji (the character "Seven") written on it. In Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, this has been changed to Korean hangul which still stands for "Seven".
  • A lone M6D appears as an easter egg in Halo 2 on the map Tombstone; it (and an accompanying pistol crate) can be seen behind the fenced-off section that raises over the central trench on the map. The weapon is model-only, and has no gameplay functionality.
  • The M6D was featured in Bungie's 30th anniversary as the exotic sidearm Forerunner in Destiny 2 obtained by reaching Brave I in Dares of Eternity. The Catalyst upgrade for the gun allows Guardians to throw a frag grenade after achieving a kill with the Forerunner, and when obtaining it, multiversal agent Xûr implies that he retrieved the sidearm and its upgrade from the Pillar of Autumn.

Gallery[edit]

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  • A view of the M6D in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    A view of the M6D in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • Front and Back views of the M6D.

    Front and Back views of the M6D.

  • A view of the M6D Pistol being held.

    A view of the M6D Pistol being held.

  • An in-game profile view of the M6D from Halo: Combat Evolved.

    An in-game profile view of the M6D from Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • The ammunition pack for the M6D.

    The ammunition pack for the M6D.

  • John firing an M6D.

    John firing an M6D.

  • The M6D with its slide opened.

    The M6D with its slide opened.

  • First-person view of the M6D in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    First-person view of the M6D in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • The 2× telescopic sight of an M6D Magnum Pistol from Halo: Combat Evolved.

    The 2× telescopic sight of an M6D Magnum Pistol from Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • The M6D in the Halo 2 map Tombstone.

    The M6D in the Halo 2 map Tombstone.

  • The M6D storage crate in the Halo 2 map Tombstone.

    The M6D storage crate in the Halo 2 map Tombstone.

  • Unobstructed view of Tombstone's crate.

    Unobstructed view of Tombstone's crate.

  • The M6D's 2× scope when zoomed in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

    The M6D's 2× scope when zoomed in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary.

  • The M6D model (on the left) being developed for Halo 5: Guardians.

    The M6D model (on the left) being developed for Halo 5: Guardians.

  • A work in progress model of the M6D PDWS for Halo 5: Guardians.

    A work in progress model of the M6D PDWS for Halo 5: Guardians.

  • First-person view of the M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

    First-person view of the M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • A Spartan-IV using an M6D on a Forge remake of Battle Creek.

    A Spartan-IV using an M6D on a Forge remake of Battle Creek.

  • REQ Card of the M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

    REQ Card of the M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • An M6H2 in comparison to an M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

    An M6H2 in comparison to an M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Side view the M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Side view the M6D in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • A Spartan racking the slide of an M6D in Halo 5: Guardians multiplayer.

    A Spartan racking the slide of an M6D in Halo 5: Guardians multiplayer.

  • The targeting view of a KFA-2 optic on an M6D in Halo 5: Guardians multiplayer.

    The targeting view of a KFA-2 optic on an M6D in Halo 5: Guardians multiplayer.

  • The Old School stance includes the M6D.

    The Old School stance includes the M6D.

  • A close-up of the M6D created as a part of Project Foundry

    A close-up of the M6D created as a part of Project Foundry

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 164
  2. ^ a b c Halo: Silent Storm, chapter 15
  3. ^ a b c d e Halo 5: Guardians, Warzone gameplay
  4. ^ a b c d e Halo: Combat Evolved manual, page 17
  5. ^ a b Halo Waypoint, Hammer Storm (Retrieved on Mar 13, 2016) [archive]
  6. ^ Bungie.net, The M6G Pistol (Retrieved on Jan 24, 2021) [local archive] [external archive]
  7. ^ a b Halo: Combat Evolved, campaign level Pillar of Autumn
  8. ^ The Art of Halo, page 99
  9. ^ a b c d e f Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 321
  10. ^ a b c d Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo: Combat Evolved Pistol in-game weapon
  11. ^ a b Halo: The Fall of Reach, chapter 20
  12. ^ Bungie.net, Halo 3 ODST : Field Guide - Auto Mag (Retrieved on May 25, 2013) [local archive] [external archive]
  13. ^ a b Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 116
  14. ^ Halo: Silent Storm, chapter 3
  15. ^ a b c Halo: The Flood, chapter 2
  16. ^ a b Halo: The Flood, chapter 3
  17. ^ a b Halo: Oblivion, chapter 13
  18. ^ Bungie marketing, Bungie ViDoc: O Brave New World
  19. ^ The Art of Halo, page 103
  20. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, in-game model
  21. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary marketing, BTS: Anniversary Multiplayer

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M6 series
Mainline configurations
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M6H configurations
M6G configurations
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