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M6D magnum: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|HCW}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Ratings}}
{{Weapon infobox
{{Weapon
|image=[[File:H5G-M6DMagnumPistol.png|300px]]
|image=[[File:M6d-pistol.jpg|300px]]
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]
|name=M6D Personal Defense Weapon System
|series=[[M6 series]]
|manufacturer=Misriah Armory
|type=
|model=[[M6 Series|M6D]]
|type=Personal Defense Weapon System
|cost=
|cost=
|size=Handheld, Single Handed
|variant=
*O/A Length: 26.7 centimeters
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]]
|damage per hit=*High (against shielded enemies)
*Very high (Flesh damage)
*Overall Damage: High
|magazine=12 rounds
|maxammo=132 rounds or 11 magazines
|fire=Fully-automatic
|ammotype= 12.7x40mm [[M225 Semi-Armor-Piercing High-Explosive]]<ref>Halo: Combat Evolved Manual</ref>
|operation=Short Recoil Principle
|rate of fire=About 210 rounds/min (3.5 rounds/sec)
|accuracy=High
|range=Short To Medium Range
|era=[[Human-Covenant War]]
|counterpart= [[Plasma Pistol]]
|counterwep=
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|weight=
|length={{Convert|26.70|cm|in}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=164}}
|ammotype=[[12.7x40mm|12.7×40mm]]{{Ref/Reuse|SilentStorm15}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|capacity=12 rounds
|feed=12-round [[Wikipedia:Magazine (firearms)#Detachable box magazines|detachable box magazine]]{{Ref/Reuse|H5GWarzone}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|operation=[[Wikipedia:Recoil operation|Recoil-operated]]{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}
|rate=[[Wikipedia:Semi-automatic firearm|Semi-automatic]], [[Wikipedia:Automatic firearm|fully-automatic]]{{Ref/Reuse|hammerstorm}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|velocity=
|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}}
|range=
}}
}}
{{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 Personal Defense Weapon System'''<ref>[[The Art of Halo]] page 99</ref> , otherwise known as the '''M6D Magnum Sidearm''', is a [[United Nations Space Command]] sidearm and is one of the variants of [[Misriah Armory]]'s [[M6]] handgun 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}}


== Design Details ==
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}}
[[File:Pistol.png|thumb|left|160px|M6D Schematic.]]
The M6D Pistol is an 'up-sized' UNSC handgun issued to Navy officers. This model has been upscaled for use by [[SPARTAN-II]]s in [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor|MJOLNIR]] armor. Even though the Spartan issue pistols are larger than the standard-issue variants (~117%) they can still share magazines.<ref name="H3R">[http://www.bungie.net/projects/odst/guide.aspx '''Bungie,net''': ''Halo 3: ODST Project Page'']</ref> The M6D is an automatic, recoil-operated, magazine-fed, large-bore handgun that is controllable even during rapid fire, although at the cost of accuracy. It is most likely striker-fired, due to there being no visible external hammer. It fires M225 SAP-HE (Semi-Armor Piercing, High Explosive) rounds from a 12-round magazine. Operators can achieve an effective rate of fire of 3.5 rounds/sec or 210 rounds/min. The weapon is very accurate out to its maximum effective range. This accuracy allows incredibly precise target engagement at long range. This, combined with its decent damage against [[Energy Shields]], makes it a viable option when faced with shielded opponents, such as Elites. It is, however, even more effective against unshielded infantry targets, being able to kill most targets in one shot to the head or two to three shots to the body.


The M6D is an automatic weapon - this principle of weapon operations means that the weapon will cock itself after every shot due to recoil and will continue to do so with every trigger pull until the magazine is empty. The M6D also uses the short recoil principle; it uses the force of the recoil to eject the spent casing, chamber another cartridge, and re-cock the weapon so that it may be fired again. Before the first round can be fired however, a round must be chambered, this is done by inserting a loaded magazine into the grip of the weapon and then by pulling the slide back completely and letting it slingshot forward, which takes a round from the top of the magazine and carries it into the chamber. To reload, the empty magazine must be removed with the magazine release button located on the grip and a fresh magazine inserted. Once the fresh magazine is inserted, the slide is allowed to return to its normal position by the operator. There is no need to re-cock the weapon. Cocking is only necessary when chambering the first round when bringing the weapon out of "safe" mode - safety on, uncocked, unloaded.
===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}}


The M6D is a very basic pistol compared to most 26th century technology. It is a large handgun, having an overall length of 26.7cm and possesses a rifled barrel, improving accuracy by spinning the bullet. It is issued in a hard chrome finish color and operates like most contemporary pistols. It has rear sights but it does not have a forward sight blade, which is replaced by the smart-link scope. It features a KFA-2 2x optical, smart-linked scope. This scope links directly to a user's [[HUD]] or a Marine eye piece. It also has a large grip guard, which helps prevent the user from dropping it and a chrome barrel which helps prevent corrosion.
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}}


===Ammunition===
===Performance===
The M6D uses 12.7x40mm M225 SAPHE (Semi Armor Piercing High Explosive) magnum loads. These rounds have a jacket of copper or cupro-nickel around the projectile while the projectile itself is hollow and filled with an explosive compound and a delayed-detonation impact fuse. When the round impacts a target, the jacket will initially help the projectile maintain its shape, allowing it to travel into the target before detonating almost immediately after impact, causing massive tissue damage and system shock. Semi-armor piercing rounds are more effective against infantry targets as compared to armor piercing rounds due to the massive KE dump and catastrophic system damage caused by internally-fracturing rounds, and have the added bonus of posing less risk to friendlies and noncombatants in the vicinity of the target. The explosive properties of the rounds also render them decently effective against personal shielding systems and are capable of damaging lightly-armored vehicles.
[[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 PDWS is one of the UNSC's most trusted combat pistols. It is very accurate, allowing for successful engagement at any range below 122.7 meters. It also does a considerable amount of damage against both shielded infantry and flesh, as it fires 12.7x40mm M225 SAP-HE rounds. The large bullet and cartridge size yields a large amount of kinetic energy, enough to quickly deplete any form of energy shields. Its semi-armor-piercing ability, combined with the high kinetic energy allows the bullet to penetrate most physical armor, after which its high explosive core detonates.


===Disadvantages===
==Operational history==
Although the M6D has more advantages than it does disadvantages, the weapon does have a few weaknesses. A person using the M6D must be extremely efficient at aiming the M6D, taking into account of how physics work; projectiles have their own physics and are such affected by user movements. The user must take the enemies movements into account, as well as the small spread that is present when the pistol is fired. In order to pull off a three shot kill against shielded infantry, the user must have good reflexes and know where and how to aim, taking into account all of the previous facts. This alone makes the M6D difficult to use, since new users must learn all this in order to use the M6D effectively. Although the pistol can hit a target at long ranges, it cannot hit, let alone kill a player at a distance greater then 122.7 meters.
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}}


===Influences===
==Production notes==
The M6D pistol combines the features of several modern-day pistols: The Desert Eagle is a large, semi-automatic pistol using similarly-sized ammunition. It, however, uses a gas-actuated feed system instead of the short recoil system. The Mark XIX feature two grooves on the barrel that allow the mounting of gunsights, such as holo sights and scopes. The Browning Hi-Power is a slightly smaller pistol that also uses the short recoil principle and is automatic. It fires much smaller ammunition, however. The pistol fires 12.7x40mm rounds, making them very similar to the real-life 12.7x41mm (.500 S&W Magnum) round used by the Smith&Wesson M500 magnum revolver. The pistol in Marathon, Bungie's previous FPS, had a visible scope. It is possible this is where Bungie's idea of giving a pistol a scope originated.
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}}


==Tactics==
===''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary'' depiction===
===Campaign===
[[File:Modified M6G2.png|thumb|An M6D as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.]]
*If you are new or rusty to using the M6D in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', the best tactic to use against Elites is to first hit them with short bursts (or full auto at close range) from the [[MA5B ICWS Assault Rifle]] then switch to the pistol for the final blow. This not only saves ammo but reduces the risk of having to switch out the weapon for another.
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).
*Using the [[Plasma Pistol]] and M6D against Jackals and Elites is another great way to save ammo. This combo can be used at all ranges, as long as the Plasma Pistol (especially in its overcharged state) can reach the enemy. This combination serves the player well in all difficulties, especially on Legendary, and can be used against all enemies, from Grunts to Hunters.
*When facing Jackals, fire off a few shots on the Jackal's shield, the Jackal will duck and roll allowing you to get off either a critical headshot or to disorient the Jackal for the kill.
*When firing at shielded Elites, it's easy to tell whether you got a headshot or not, as they will jerk their head far backwards when it's a headshot.
*If you can shoot Hunters in their exposed back with an M6D, they will instantly die with one shot, even on [[Legendary]]. The same will happen if you manage to get them in their exposed fronts. This is easily achieved by getting the Hunter to charge you, while back-pedaling furiously, letting it swing at you (exposing its front) and popping one round into it at point-blank range.
*A well placed shot to the opening on the chest of a [[Flood]] [[Flood Combat Form|Combat Form]] can instant kill it.


===Multiplayer===
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}}
In [[Multiplayer]], players use the M6D as their all around weapon due to its high accuracy, and high power. In the PC version of the game, it is the best all-around weapon, except in situations requiring vehicle killing or CQB power. It is capable of killing a fully shielded player in three shots to the head. The pistol also cuts down the usual strife that surrounds sniper rifles; a player won't necessarily kill their teammates for the S2-AM when they have a mid range weapon with a scope.


*When getting into a Pistol battle remember the tried and true strafing tactic; it is harder for an enemy player to hit you.
===Easter eggs===
*Remember that the M6D shots do ''not'' travel instantly; keep this in mind at when fighting at longer ranges.
*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".
*Using the M6D to pull off the [[Double Melee]] glitch is very effective when an enemy player is too close to you. Remember though that unlike the [[BXR]] glitch in ''[[Halo 2]]'' there is a disadvantage, in the form of a possible misplaced grenade.
*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''.
==Trivia==
*This is the first weapon players receive in the trilogy, on the level the ''[[Pillar of Autumn (Level)|Pillar of Autumn]]'' from [[Captain (Navy)|Captain]] [[Jacob Keyes]].
*Ironically, though the M6D is the most powerful of the M6 handgun series, in game it is referred to as simply "a pistol," while the M6C, which is considerably less powerful, is called "a magnum." The term magnum is generally applied to powerful handguns, such as the Desert Eagle, implying that the C is more powerful than the D. Anyone who has used the weapon will know that this is untrue. It has been said by many critics that the M6D Pistol was massively overpowered, since it could destroy a vehicle with one or two magazines. It was mentioned during an episode of the [[Bungie]] Podcast that there was an internal debate about how powerful the M6D should have been. It was stated that the weapon was supposed to be weaker, but an employee made a last-minute code change that gave the pistol its power.{{Verify_source}}
**One of the comments on the weapon changes in ''Halo 2'' revolved around the fact that in ''Halo 1'', "the assault rifle handled like an SMG and the pistol handled like a rifle." In ''Halo 2'', the altered weapon loadout featured "a [[Battle Rifle|rifle]] that handles like a rifle, a [[M6C Personal Defense Weapon System|pistol]] that handles like a pistol, and an [[SMG]] that handles like an SMG."{{Verify source}}
*The M6D has Japanese Kanji (the character "[[Seven]]") written on it.
*One shot to the exposed orange flesh of a [[Hunter]] will result in a kill, no matter what difficulty setting.
*In the ''Halo 2'' multiplayer map ''[[Tombstone]]'', there is a M6D Pistol crate that's behind the right side of the fence that is stretched over the water trench in the middle of the map. You must zoom in to see it properly.
*[http://www.ScrewAttack.com ScrewAttack] noted the M6D as "the most powerful pistol in FPS history" in their Top 10 First Person Shooters of all time.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery widths="150" orientation="landscape">
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of M6D magnum|gameplay=yes}}
File:M6D SAP.jpg|Front and Back view of the M6D.
<gallery>
File:1220830179 Pistol.png|A close up view of the M6D.
File:M6d-pistol.jpg|A view of the M6D in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:Pistol ammopack.jpg|The ammunition pack for the M6D.
File:M6D SAP.jpg|Front and Back views of the M6D.
File:Pistol1.jpg|[[John-117]] firing an M6D in a beta build of ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:Halo 1 pistol.png|A view of the M6D Pistol being held.
File:MC M6D.jpg|John-117 wielding an M6D.
File:HCE-M6DMagnumPistol.png|An in-game profile view of the M6D from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:M6D fire.jpg|Spartan firing the M6D. Notice the opened slide.
File:HaloCE-M6DAmmopack.png|The ammunition pack for the M6D.
File:Pistol1.jpg|John firing an M6D.
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''.
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]].
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.
File:HCEA-M6DMagnumPistol-Scope.jpg|The M6D's 2× scope when zoomed in ''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''.
File:H5G-WIPM6D.png|The M6D model (on the left) being developed for ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
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''.
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''.
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''.
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.
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]]
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Appearances==
==List of appearances==
{{Appearances
{{Col-begin}}
|Halo: Combat Evolved
{{Col-2}}
|Halo 2
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
|Halo: The Fall of Reach
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
|Halo: The Flood
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
|Halo: First Strike
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
|Halo: Contact Harvest
*''[[Halo 2]]''
|Halo: The Cole Protocol
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
|Halo Graphic Novel
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
|Halo: Helljumpers
*''[[Halo 3]]'' {{Mo}}
|Halo: Evolutions
*''[[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==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}
 
==Related Pages==
*[[M6C Magnum]]
*[[M6G]]
*[[Pistol Kanji]]
*[[Misriah Armory]]


{{UNSC Infantry Weapons}}
{{Navbox/Universe/HumanSidearms/M6Pistols}}
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Pistols]]
[[Category:Held Weapons]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:UNSC 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

v • d • e
 
M6 series
Mainline configurations
M6A • M6B • M6C • M6D • M6E • M6F • M6G • M6H • M6I • M6J/C carbine • M6K • M6P • M6/Z
M6C configurations
M6H configurations
M6G configurations
Modified models
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