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M90 shotgun: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|HCW}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Weapon Infobox
{{Disambig header|the shotgun featured in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' and ''[[Halo 2]]''|the shotgun featured in ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST|ODST]]''|M90A shotgun}}
|image=[[File:H3-M90-Shotgun-Side-transparent.png|350px]]  
{{Weapon infobox
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technologies]]
|image=[[File:H2A M90Shotgun.png|300px]]
|series=M90 CAWS [[DTM Series]]
|name=M90 Close Assault Weapon System
|type=
|manufacturer=[[Weapon System Technology]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=173}}
|cost=cR 2200
|series=[[DTM series]]{{Ref/Reuse|BnetShotgun}}
|variant=[[#Halo 3 and Halo 3: ODST|M90A]]
|type=Pump-action shotgun{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
|service=
|cost=
|variant=[[M90A shotgun]]
|service=*[[Insurrection]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|weight=*M90A:
|length={{Convert|46.5|in|cm|disp=flip|sp=us}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**Empty:5.4 kg (11.9 lbs)<ref name="bnet"/>
|width=
**Loaded: 5.8 kg (12.8 lbs)<ref name="bnet"/>
|height=
|length=*M90: 118.3 cm
|weight=
*M90A:
|ammotype=[[8-Gauge Magnum|M296 8-Gauge Magnum]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
**(o/a):123.9 cm (48.8 in.)<ref name="bnet"/>
|capacity=
**(Barrel):61 cm (24 in.)<ref name="bnet"/>
|feed=12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|ammotype=[[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell]]
|operation=[[wikipedia:pump-action|Pump-action]]{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}}
|feed=*M90: 12 shells
|rate=
*M90A: 6 shells
|velocity=
|operation=Manual pump action
|optics=
|rate=1.5 shell/second
|range=
|velocity=300-400 m/s (980-1300 f/s)<ref name="bnet"/>
|range=Short to medium range, 40 to 100 meters.
}}
}}
The '''M90 Close Assault Weapon System''' (CAWS),{{Ref/Book|Id=ENC324|Enc11|Page=324}} also known as the '''M90 Close Assault Shotgun''',{{Ref/Novel|Id=FS6|HFS|Chapter=6}} '''M90 assault shotgun''', or simply the '''M90''',{{Ref/Novel|Id=SS25|HSS|Chapter=25}} is a pump-action shotgun in service with [[UNSC]].{{Ref/Reuse|ENC324}} It is a military variant of the prolific [[DTM series]] of shotguns from [[Weapon System Technology]].{{Ref/Site|Id=BnetShotgun|URL=http://halo.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun|Site=Bungie.net|Page=The M90A Shotgun|D=08|M=6|Y=2020|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/M90A}}


{{Quote|I believe that the sound of racking the pump of a shotgun is universally recognized as "kiss your ass goodbye".|Anonymous [[E2-BAG/1/7]] serviceman}}
The M90 is most prominently used by the [[UNSC Marine Corps]], with the [[UNSC Army]] instead preferring the [[M45E shotgun]]. However, the [[M45D shotgun]] has largely replaced both in general UNSC service as of the [[Post-Covenant War conflicts|post-Covenant War era]].{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


The '''M90 Close Assault Weapon System'''<ref name="bnet">[http://www.bungie.net/projects/halo3/content.aspx?link=h3shotgun '''Bungi.net''': ''Halo Universe - The M90A Shotgun'']</ref><ref>'''[[The Art of Halo]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 310''</ref> ('''M90 CAWS'''), is the [[United Nations Space Command]]'s primary shotgun, and is one of the most effective infantry weapons used by front line forces.
It has numerous nicknames, including '''The Hammer''', '''Deck Clearer''', '''Mop''', '''Broom''', '''Universal Translator''', '''Boomstick''', '''Hick Stick''', '''Thunderer''', '''Betsy''', '''Equalizer''', '''Waster''', and the '''Okay-47'''.{{Ref/Reuse|ENC324}}


==Design Details==
==Overview==
[[Image:M90Shotgun.png|thumb|left|170px|M90 schematic.]]
===Design details===
The M90 shotgun is a pump-action weapon fed by two tubular, non-detachable magazines. The Weapon System Technologies DTM series shotgun is the most common shotgun employed by [[UNSC Special Forces]], law enforcement agencies, and sportsmen. The M90 has been in service for over 27 years and its design has changed very little. The M90’s immense power, ease of use, and reduced capacity for puncturing the hulls of spacecraft over many other UNSC weapon systems with standard 0000 ammunition are greatly appreciated. The M90 is often employed in urban conditions where the tight spaces are conducive to the shotgun's wide spray for defensive purposes and CQB combat. The military issued DTM series comes standard with an adjustable stock and pistol grip, although there are different models like the WST DTM/LE model which has a solid stock and no pistol grip. The DTM series of shotguns are available in 20-Gauge and 10-Gauge for the civilian market; the 8-gauge is only sold to law enforcement and military agencies.
The M90 is a pump-action shotgun, chambered in the extremely powerful 8-gauge magnum shell, and feeding from a 12-round, dual-tubular, non-detachable magazine.{{Ref/Book|Id=CEM|Halo: Combat Evolved manual|Page=18}} The extended magazine is included to aid the weapon's effectiveness in [[Naval boarding|boarding]] actions.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} It is generally utilized alongside MAG 15P-00B rounds,{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2AG}} and is designed as a more practical and cost-effective recreation of [[Misriah Armory]]’s [[M45E Tactical Shotgun]],{{Ref/Game|Id=HCEAL|HCEA|Library (feature)#Shotgun|Library|Detail=Shotgun}} though in UNSC service it is considered to be functionally identical.{{Ref/Generic|Id=HWDD6|[[Data drops]]|Data Drop #6}}


===Ammunition===
The magazine of the weapon is prominently positioned above the barrel, with the weapon’s glowing iron sights mounted atop it and the receiver located just behind, facing upwards, roughly in-line with the trigger. The magazine possesses a dull grey or glossy black finish with ribbed indents along its length. A flashlight is integrated into the weapon’s forend, which also features a prominent reddish button.{{Ref/Game|Id=HCEG|HCE|Shotgun in-game model}}{{Ref/Game|Id=H2G|H2|Shotgun in-game model}}{{Ref/Game|Id=H2AG|H2A|Shotgun in-game model}}
{{Main|Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell}}
The M90 Shotgun uses the [[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell|Soellkraft 8 Gauge Magnum Shotgun Shell]]. This is an incredibly large round, not used by any modern military. Recoil has been said to be relatively low.<ref name="bnet"/> It is assumed that shotgun technology must have been advanced enough to suppress the recoil.


===Advantages===
===Functionality===
The M90 Shotgun fires 15 spreading pellets per shot. The combined force of each relatively weak pellet does a significant amount of damage against almost any type of infantry, and the wide spread of the pellets in certain situations can inflict shrapnel damage to multiple infantry. The M90 Shotgun's powerful 8 gauge round can punch through armor and [[Energy Shield]]s easily, making the M90 a great weapon for taking on heavily armored infantry, and lightly armored vehicles. The M90's top loading system allows a user to reload the shotgun with speed and ease for quick firing.
[[File:H2A Multiplayer M90 Firing.jpg|250px|thumb|A [[Spartan]] firing an M90.]]
The M90 shotgun is hefted like a rifle, with the user's dominant hand holding the primary pistol grip, and their off-hand supporting the weapon by holding onto the forend (the portion of the weapon which is acted upon by the user to facilitate the pump action, which also acts as a forward grip for the off-hand). As is typical of human firearms, in order to discharge the weapon, the trigger positioned at the top of the pistol grip must be depressed. If the weapon is loaded with standard ammunition, the weapon's firing will take the form of a spray of pellets, referred to as "buckshot", which are quite powerful at close range but lose damage efficiency as the spray disperses and loses energy. The firing of the weapon produces a fiery muzzle flash as burning propellant gasses leave the barrel.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2AG}}


===Disadvantages===
Once the chambered round is fired, to repeat, the forend of the weapon is slid back across the weapon's underside in the direction of the stock, retracting the bolt and removing the spent shell from the firing chamber. When the forend is fully retracted, the spent shell will have been ejected, and the way will have been cleared for the elevator component to position a new round for the bolt to carry into the chamber when the slide is once again pushed forward in the direction of the muzzle. Once the weapon’s magazine is expended, new rounds must be inserted one at a time into the receiver to continue firing. It is possible at any time to top up the magazine with additional ammunition until it is full.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}}{{Ref/Reuse|H2AG}}
While highly effective at close range, the M90 is rendered useless at long range, and should therefore be used in conjunction with a medium or long range weapon. The shotgun's pattern is extremely loose, and fans out quickly; thus, at farther ranges, only one or two pellets out of the 15 might hit. The M90, being a pump-action shotgun, must be cycled after every shot before it can be fired again; the M90 must also be reloaded shell by shell and does not use any type of external magazine. This can make reloading time-consuming when in combat situations, but it is useful to be able to interrupt the reloading and shoot after you load a round. In close-quarter situations, the wide spread of the shell can potentially harm friendly infantry if the shotgun is fired at both the enemy and friendly troops. In real life, the recipient, being on the top, will never happen, as the inside is partially exposed, meaning it is vulnerable to rain. This will allow the magazine tube to become damp, and thus can cause malfunctions and also misfires.


===Influence===
===Performance===
The ''mechanical'' design of the M90 shotgun is loosely based on the South African Neostead shotgun which features dual six-round top-loaded magazines. The weapon features two integral tube magazines with a total capacity of thirteen rounds (6+6+1) and ambidextrous bottom ejecting shells. It is chambered for standard 12-Gauge 2.75-inch cartridges. The ''aesthetic'' design is a composite of multiple pump-action designs, most notably, the Mossberg 500.
The M90 is a devastating weapon in close, confined environments, with a loud report and strong recoil.{{Ref/Book|Id=H2M|Halo 2 manual|Page=11}} The spray of pellets from the weapon mean that at slightly longer ranges, it can be used to hit clusters of targets simultaneously,{{Ref/Reuse|CEM}} but also makes the weapon inefficient at extended ranges due to the low ratio of shot which hits the target to the amount of shot fired.{{Ref/Reuse|H2M}} The M90's powerful cartridge makes it capable of efficiently engaging and defeating enemies with [[energy shielding]] within effective range.{{Ref/Reuse|SS25}} The Covenant learned to be wary of this weapon in urban environments, noting its close-range lethality.{{Ref/Book|Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual|Page=}}


==Tactics==
==Operational history==
===Campaign===
The M90 was a common close-range battle implement in the service of the UNSC throughout the [[Human-Covenant War]]. It saw service in the hands of [[John-117]] during [[Operation: SILENT STORM]],{{Ref/Reuse|SS25}} but its most prominent usage came in 2552. It played a notable part in the [[Battle of Installation 04]], being used by [[UNSC Marine Corps|UNSC Marines]] against the [[Covenant]] and [[Flood]].{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}} An M90 was also present during the ensuing [[Skirmish over Threshold]].{{Ref/Reuse|FS6}} It went on to be widely utilized during the [[Battle of Earth]].{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}} Notably, the [[Unidentified Master Gunnery Sergeant|Master Gunnery Sergeant]] who oversaw John-117's issuing with his new [[MJOLNIR Mark VI armor]] was killed on [[Cairo Station (station)|Cairo Station]] while using an M90 to defend his armory from a pair of [[Sangheili]].{{Ref/Level|H2|Cairo Station}} M90s were brought on the ''[[UNSC In Amber Clad]]'', and thus were employed throughout the [[Battle of Installation 05]].{{Ref/Reuse|H2G}} During the battle, many Marines wielded M90s during their [[Battle of the Quarantine Zone|incursion]] into the [[quarantine zone]]. Following the accidental release of the [[Flood]] by [[Thel 'Vadam|Thel 'Vadamee]], many of these Marines fell victim to the parasite, with their M90s remaining in the possession of the resultant [[Flood combat form|combat forms]].{{Ref/Level|H2|Sacred Icon}}{{Ref/Level|H2|Quarantine Zone}} Towards the end of the Battle of Installation 05, during the opening stages of the [[Great Schism]], many M90s were captured by [[Jiralhanae]] forces, who employed them against both [[Covenant separatists|separatist]] Sangheili on the ring's surface,{{Ref/Level|H2|Uprising}}{{Ref/Level|H2|The Great Journey}} and Flood during their [[Fall of High Charity|invasion]] of [[High Charity]].{{Ref/Level|H2|High Charity (level)|High Charity}}
*One of the most dominating weapons in the Halo Trilogy, the Shotgun shows its most effective side in [[The Library (Level)|The Library]] in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and in ''[[Sacred Icon (Level)|Sacred Icon]]'' in ''Halo 2''.
*This weapon is easily the best choice in the game for taking out powerful enemies such as groups of [[Flood Combat Forms]], [[Elites]], and [[Brutes]]. Even on ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' [[Heroic]] difficulty, it is possible to take out shielded Elites with as few as two rounds, and only on [[Legendary]] do the Flood become capable of surviving a direct hit from the shotgun.
*In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', you can perform what players call the "speed pump". In this method, the player must reload the shotgun almost instantly after firing each shot. After each time he/she repeats this procedure, the shotgun will be reloaded faster than the normal rate. As a result, the shotgun will inflict a seemingly unstoppable barrage of projectiles until there are no longer any shells left to spare. This method is extremely useful in the level, [[The Library (Level)|The Library]], as well as the remainder of the levels after it.
*In ''Halo 2'', Brutes, [[Councilor]]s and [[Ultra Elites]] are the only ones that can survive a point blank shotgun blast on Normal difficulty. Hunters can be killed by shooting directly into the exposed orange [[Lekgolo]]. However, on Legendary difficulty, any rank higher than a [[Minor Elite]]'s shielding and health can withstand a point blank shotgun blast. Beware, for the [[Flood]] can wield shotguns to devastating effect, since they have an extremely long jumping range.
*In ''Halo 2'' Brutes also wield shotguns as trophies taken from dead humans. Use long ranged weapons to take them down on high difficulties, as a point blank range shot is fatal.


===Multiplayer===
==In-game information==
*The shotgun's effectiveness in multiplayer games varies depending on the terrain; indoors and in tight spaces, the shotgun is unbeatable, and some consider it superior to the Energy Sword, possibly because there is a slight delay between pressing the trigger and the slash of the sword, while the Shotgun is semi-instantaneous(There's a small gap between muzzle flash, and damaging the target). Most players can utilize this fact to earn a Bulltrue medal relatively easily, though caution should be exercised, as the timing is very difficult to master.
===Visual depictions===
*You have about one shot to kill your opponent after you ambush them. If you shoot and don't succeed in killing them, your opponent has a chance of recovering and killing you, most likely taking your prized weapon away from you.
[[File:HCE-M90Shotgun.png|350px|thumb|The depiction of the M90 from ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.]]
*Many players carry the shotgun and a weapon that is very effective at medium and above ranges such as the [[Sniper Rifle]], [[Beam Rifle]] , [[Covenant Carbine]], [[M6D Personal Defense Weapon System|M6D Pistol]], or [[BR55 Battle Rifle]], thus making for a more flexible arsenal.
The original ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' depiction is different in three notable aspects from the later depictions in ''[[Halo 2]]'' and ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''. The first is that the weapon features a smooth magazine lacking a heatshield, with a distinctive chrome finish. The second is that the luminous iron sights glow blue instead of green. The final differentiation is that in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', but not successive depictions, when the weapon is reloaded after being completely emptied, the weapon’s action is worked to chamber the first round, which is considerably more realistic.{{Ref/Reuse|HCEG}} A similar shotgun design, the [[M90A shotgun]], is featured in ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.
*Continuous firing by using the magazine and loading one shell then firing does not affect the rate of fire significantly, prompting a few players to employ a tactic dubbed "shotgun sniping" as suppressive fire across medium-sized maps.
*The Shotgun can finish enemies off safely and quickly by shooting them at a decently close range, then striking them with a melee attack immediately afterward, guaranteeing an instant kill.
*When you have a shotgun, it is advisable to watch your team's sniper. That way you can defeat anybody that attempts to flank the sniper. It is easy to do this on The Pit.
*It is best to carry a Battle Rifle with you, or some other medium to long range weapon. If not, have a teammate with you who will have one. On the maps [[Snowbound (Level)|Snowbound]] and [[Epitaph (Level)|Epitaph]], many people prefer to wait by shield doors, preparing to ambush and instantly kill those who come through. If you're charging at at enemy while firing your [[Assault Rifle]] hoping to finish him off with a melee attack, and the enemy is charging at you but not firing, chances are he has a shotgun and plans to surprise you with it when you get within killing range, so be cautious.
 
==Differences among games==
===''Halo: Combat Evolved''===
The M90's incarnation in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' is arguably the strongest version. It can hold 12 rounds, and the player can carry up to 60 more rounds for a total of 72 rounds. It has the longest and most realistic effective range of all the three models, and its fifteen tungsten pellets could kill, weaken or injure targets at short to medium ranges. Although it is more likely to kill a closer ranged enemy as the shotgun is weak on further distanced enemies, the shotgun could also kill nearly any infantry target at point blank range. It even has the capabilities to take on lightly armored vehicles, such as the [[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle|Ghost]] effectively. Players could hold the trigger button down for continuous fire. To melee, the player swings the shotgun up and brings the butt of the weapon on someone's head/front. If the player fires the entire magazine or if the player picks up a Shotgun without a full magazine and fires it empty, the character model will cycle the shotgun's slide after reloading, although most players usually opted to reload after every shot. It reloads more quickly than in ''Halo 2''.
 
===''Halo 2''===
In ''[[Halo 2]]'', the M90 changed significantly from its predecessor. The only aesthetic difference is that the iron sights are green instead of blue, and the overall length of the barrel is shorter. The melee attack is much faster than in the original game, and the weapon is slung horizontally instead. Its performance is also drastically different as it can not kill targets at more than a few feet away, though a quick shoot-[[melee]] combo would usually kill an enemy very quickly. The player can only carry 36 spare rounds for a total of 48 rounds. Unlike the previous version, it has little power when used against vehicles, and like before, with the range decreased, its effectiveness against the Flood was reduced slightly. The weapon's action does not cycle after reloading, unlike the previous iteration of the M90.
 
===''Halo 3'' and ''Halo 3: ODST''===
The '''M90A''' is used in ''[[Halo 3]]'' and ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''. There are a variety of graphical and gameplay changes from the previous models. The blue iron-sights have been reintroduced, it has a longer barrel and the [[flashlight]] is now mounted on the side. Unlike the older models which had a 12-round magazine, the M90A only has a 6-round magazine. The player can carry 30 spare rounds for a total of 36 rounds. To make up for this, its effective range is far greater than that of the ''Halo 2'' incarnation, as it can kill targets at two or even three times the range, depending on their health. The slide is always cycled after reloading, despite the fact that this would eject a round if one were already chambered. Like in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the M90A is once again a powerful weapon for use against the [[Flood]] because of its increase in range and power, though the M90A may still require a player to shoot and melee a Flood target, depending on the type.
 
==UNSC remarks==
*“The kick is milder with the As—not that it was that bad to begin with—sometimes progress just seems like change, if you catch my meaning.”
*“The adjustable stock on the M90 works just fine, but I’ve got a soft spot in my heart for the [[DTM/Law Enforcement|DTM/LE]] model—old habits die hard, I guess."
*“Actually, I think the jury is still out on whether it means ‘STFU and STFD’ or ‘you ain’t gonna make it.”
*“The action I saw against the Flood on [[Delta Halo]] was pretty limited—thankfully—and you would think that the M90 would be the ultimate anti-Flood weapon, right? Except that a shotgun is effective because it delivers a massive shock to a delicately balanced system of organs and the Flood don’t have that delicately balanced system of organs —it’s like shooting a mike foxtrot tree! All you can really hope to do is disassemble them as rapidly as possible in the correct order.”
*“The shotgun is a specialist weapon—it has its uses, but they are limited. Maybe it is more accurate to call it a tool, as opposed to a weapon?”


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*Slang names for the M90 include ''"waste 'em"'', ''"deck clearer"'', ''"The Hammer"'', ''" Mop"'', ''"Broom"'', [[w:c:memoryalpha:Universal translator|''"Universal Translator"'']], ''"High Stick"'', ''"Thunderer"'', ''"Betsy"'', ''"Equalizer"'', and [[Wikipedia:AK-47|''"The Okay-47"'']].<ref>'''Sybex Halo PC Strategy Guide''', ''page 19''</ref><ref>'''Halo Encyclopedia''', page ???</ref>
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes}}
*''Halo: The Flood'' erroneously states that the M90 utilizes twelve-gauge cartridges.{{Citation needed}}
*In ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', the M90 shotgun shares its [[:File:Halo-SniperRifle-Reticule.png|reticule]] with the then-PC-exclusive [[M7057 flamethrower|flamethrower]].
*In the second issue of ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]'', the [[Unidentified captain (UNSC Dartmouth)|captain]] of the {{UNSCship|Dartmouth}} retrieves several shotguns from a [[cryo chamber]]. In the first two panels, the shotguns appear to be [[M45 Tactical Shotgun|M45s]], though they resemble M90s in subsequent panels.
*In the second issue of ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]'', the [[Unidentified captain (UNSC Dartmouth)|captain]] of the {{UNSCShip|Dartmouth}} retrieves several shotguns from a [[cryo chamber]]. In the first two panels, the shotguns appear to be [[M45 Tactical Shotgun|M45s]], though they resemble M90s in subsequent panels.
*The M90A's flashlight is only seen in use in ''Halo 3: ODST''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s [[campaign]] level [[Data Hive]] by an [[unidentified NMPD officer]].
*In ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'', if the player uses [[active camouflage]] while the M90 is equipped, the shells will be the only objects still visible. This could be because the shells are technically not attached to the shotgun (like the magazines in other weapons) but rather held inside the weapon until ignited and fired. This is best seen when playing as [[Thel 'Vadam|the Arbiter]].
*In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', the shotgun is the most effective weapon in the game against most [[Flood]] forms. A single shot is capable of killing [[Flood combat form]]s and [[Flood carrier form]]s and works best when paired with a weapon with a high-rate of fire such as an [[MA5B assault rifle]] to deal with [[Pod infector]]s. The shotgun is still effective in later games, but not to such a degree as, starting in ''[[Halo 2]]'', infection forms can revive deceased combat forms unless the body is destroyed. ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' lacked this resuscitation ability for the Flood.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery widths="150" orientation="landscape">
<gallery>
File:M90 Shotgun.png|The M90 as it appears in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:HCE_M90Shotgun_Icon.png|''Halo: Combat Evolved'' M90 icon.
File:M90 MkI SG.png|Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. Note the absence of a trigger.
File:M90 Shotgun.png|The M90 as it appears in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''.
File:Halo2-M90-Shotgun.png|Profile view of the ''Halo 2''-era M90 Shotgun. As in the previous game, the weapon lacks a trigger.
File:M90 Shotgun (Torch Side).png|The M90 CAWS in ''Halo 3''.
File:1771656-gallery.png|The Shotgun as it appears in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[Homecoming]]''.
File:Shotshell hippo.png|The [[Soellkraft 8 Gauge Shell]] discarded by the M90.
File:1211479389 Shotty Discharge.jpg|A close-up of the M90 discharging a shell.
File:343GS-Marine Run.jpg|A Marine using an M90.
File:Shotgun-render.png|The shotgun in the hands of [[John-117]] in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:Shotgun-render.png|The shotgun in the hands of [[John-117]] in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:Halo3 Shotgun render.png|First-person view of the M90 Shotgun in ''Halo 3''.
File:HCE 343 Guilty Spark Marine holding a M90.jpg|A Marine using an M90.
File:Halo2-MasterChiefShotgun-transparent.png|John-117 holding an M90.
File:Floodambush.jpg|First-person view of the M90 in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:Halo2-M90-Shotgun.png|Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in ''[[Halo 2]]''. As in the previous game, the weapon lacks a trigger.
File:Halo2-MasterChiefShotgun.png|John-117 holding an M90.
File:HaloWars-Forge-Shotgun.jpg|Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in ''[[Halo Wars]]''.
File:Homecoming Shotgun Concept.png|The shotgun as it appears in ''[[Halo Legends]]: [[Homecoming]]''.
File:H2A M90 Concept.jpg|''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' concept art of the M90.
File:H2ACP-M90HUD.png|First-person view of the M90 in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H2A Brute Minor.png|A [[Jiralhanae]] [[Jiralhanae Minor|Minor]] holding an M90 shotgun in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:GamescomH2AShotguns.jpg|Two Spartans using M90 shotguns in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' multiplayer.
File:H2AMP-M90HUD.png|First-person view of the M90 on Stonetown.
File:H2AMP-M90.png|The M90 being used by a Spartan on Stonetown.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==List of appearances==
==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
**''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
*''[[Halo Graphic Novel]]''
**''[[Breaking Quarantine]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp|Boot Camp]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Know Your Enemy]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Fireteam Raven]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Outcasts]]''


==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{UNSC Infantry Weapons}}
{{UNSC support weapons}}
[[Category:Shotguns]]
[[Category:Shotguns]]

Latest revision as of 14:58, November 1, 2024

This article is about the shotgun featured in Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 2. For the shotgun featured in Halo 3 and ODST, see M90A shotgun.
M90 Close Assault Weapon System
H2A M90Shotgun.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Weapon System Technology[1][2]

Model series:

DTM series[1]

Type:

Pump-action shotgun[3][4]

Variants:

M90A shotgun

Specifications

Length:

118 centimeters (46.5 in)[2]

Ammunition type:

M296 8-Gauge Magnum[2]

Feed system:

12-shell dual-tubular non-detachable magazine[3][2]

Operation:

Pump-action[3][4]

Service history

In service:

 

The M90 Close Assault Weapon System (CAWS),[5] also known as the M90 Close Assault Shotgun,[6] M90 assault shotgun, or simply the M90,[7] is a pump-action shotgun in service with UNSC.[5] It is a military variant of the prolific DTM series of shotguns from Weapon System Technology.[1]

The M90 is most prominently used by the UNSC Marine Corps, with the UNSC Army instead preferring the M45E shotgun. However, the M45D shotgun has largely replaced both in general UNSC service as of the post-Covenant War era.[2]

It has numerous nicknames, including The Hammer, Deck Clearer, Mop, Broom, Universal Translator, Boomstick, Hick Stick, Thunderer, Betsy, Equalizer, Waster, and the Okay-47.[5]

Overview[edit]

Design details[edit]

The M90 is a pump-action shotgun, chambered in the extremely powerful 8-gauge magnum shell, and feeding from a 12-round, dual-tubular, non-detachable magazine.[3] The extended magazine is included to aid the weapon's effectiveness in boarding actions.[2] It is generally utilized alongside MAG 15P-00B rounds,[8][9][10] and is designed as a more practical and cost-effective recreation of Misriah Armory’s M45E Tactical Shotgun,[11] though in UNSC service it is considered to be functionally identical.[12]

The magazine of the weapon is prominently positioned above the barrel, with the weapon’s glowing iron sights mounted atop it and the receiver located just behind, facing upwards, roughly in-line with the trigger. The magazine possesses a dull grey or glossy black finish with ribbed indents along its length. A flashlight is integrated into the weapon’s forend, which also features a prominent reddish button.[8][9][10]

Functionality[edit]

A Spartan firing an M90 shotgun in H2A multiplayer.
A Spartan firing an M90.

The M90 shotgun is hefted like a rifle, with the user's dominant hand holding the primary pistol grip, and their off-hand supporting the weapon by holding onto the forend (the portion of the weapon which is acted upon by the user to facilitate the pump action, which also acts as a forward grip for the off-hand). As is typical of human firearms, in order to discharge the weapon, the trigger positioned at the top of the pistol grip must be depressed. If the weapon is loaded with standard ammunition, the weapon's firing will take the form of a spray of pellets, referred to as "buckshot", which are quite powerful at close range but lose damage efficiency as the spray disperses and loses energy. The firing of the weapon produces a fiery muzzle flash as burning propellant gasses leave the barrel.[8][9][10]

Once the chambered round is fired, to repeat, the forend of the weapon is slid back across the weapon's underside in the direction of the stock, retracting the bolt and removing the spent shell from the firing chamber. When the forend is fully retracted, the spent shell will have been ejected, and the way will have been cleared for the elevator component to position a new round for the bolt to carry into the chamber when the slide is once again pushed forward in the direction of the muzzle. Once the weapon’s magazine is expended, new rounds must be inserted one at a time into the receiver to continue firing. It is possible at any time to top up the magazine with additional ammunition until it is full.[8][9][10]

Performance[edit]

The M90 is a devastating weapon in close, confined environments, with a loud report and strong recoil.[4] The spray of pellets from the weapon mean that at slightly longer ranges, it can be used to hit clusters of targets simultaneously,[3] but also makes the weapon inefficient at extended ranges due to the low ratio of shot which hits the target to the amount of shot fired.[4] The M90's powerful cartridge makes it capable of efficiently engaging and defeating enemies with energy shielding within effective range.[7] The Covenant learned to be wary of this weapon in urban environments, noting its close-range lethality.[13]

Operational history[edit]

The M90 was a common close-range battle implement in the service of the UNSC throughout the Human-Covenant War. It saw service in the hands of John-117 during Operation: SILENT STORM,[7] but its most prominent usage came in 2552. It played a notable part in the Battle of Installation 04, being used by UNSC Marines against the Covenant and Flood.[8] An M90 was also present during the ensuing Skirmish over Threshold.[6] It went on to be widely utilized during the Battle of Earth.[9] Notably, the Master Gunnery Sergeant who oversaw John-117's issuing with his new MJOLNIR Mark VI armor was killed on Cairo Station while using an M90 to defend his armory from a pair of Sangheili.[14] M90s were brought on the UNSC In Amber Clad, and thus were employed throughout the Battle of Installation 05.[9] During the battle, many Marines wielded M90s during their incursion into the quarantine zone. Following the accidental release of the Flood by Thel 'Vadamee, many of these Marines fell victim to the parasite, with their M90s remaining in the possession of the resultant combat forms.[15][16] Towards the end of the Battle of Installation 05, during the opening stages of the Great Schism, many M90s were captured by Jiralhanae forces, who employed them against both separatist Sangheili on the ring's surface,[17][18] and Flood during their invasion of High Charity.[19]

In-game information[edit]

Visual depictions[edit]

The depiction of the M90 from Halo: Combat Evolved.

The original Halo: Combat Evolved depiction is different in three notable aspects from the later depictions in Halo 2 and Halo 2: Anniversary. The first is that the weapon features a smooth magazine lacking a heatshield, with a distinctive chrome finish. The second is that the luminous iron sights glow blue instead of green. The final differentiation is that in Halo: Combat Evolved, but not successive depictions, when the weapon is reloaded after being completely emptied, the weapon’s action is worked to chamber the first round, which is considerably more realistic.[8] A similar shotgun design, the M90A shotgun, is featured in Halo 3 and Halo 3: ODST.

Trivia[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to M90 shotgun on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • In Halo: Combat Evolved, the M90 shotgun shares its reticule with the then-PC-exclusive flamethrower.
  • In the second issue of Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp, the captain of the UNSC Dartmouth retrieves several shotguns from a cryo chamber. In the first two panels, the shotguns appear to be M45s, though they resemble M90s in subsequent panels.
  • In Halo 2: Anniversary, if the player uses active camouflage while the M90 is equipped, the shells will be the only objects still visible. This could be because the shells are technically not attached to the shotgun (like the magazines in other weapons) but rather held inside the weapon until ignited and fired. This is best seen when playing as the Arbiter.
  • In Halo: Combat Evolved, the shotgun is the most effective weapon in the game against most Flood forms. A single shot is capable of killing Flood combat forms and Flood carrier forms and works best when paired with a weapon with a high-rate of fire such as an MA5B assault rifle to deal with Pod infectors. The shotgun is still effective in later games, but not to such a degree as, starting in Halo 2, infection forms can revive deceased combat forms unless the body is destroyed. Halo: Combat Evolved lacked this resuscitation ability for the Flood.

Gallery[edit]

  • Halo: Combat Evolved M90 icon.

    Halo: Combat Evolved M90 icon.

  • The M90 as it appears in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    The M90 as it appears in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • The shotgun in the hands of John-117 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    The shotgun in the hands of John-117 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • A Marine using an M90.

    A Marine using an M90.

  • First-person view of the M90 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

    First-person view of the M90 in Halo: Combat Evolved.

  • Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in Halo 2. As in the previous game, the weapon lacks a trigger.

    Profile view of the M90 Shotgun in Halo 2. As in the previous game, the weapon lacks a trigger.

  • John-117 holding an M90.

    John-117 holding an M90.

  • Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in Halo Wars.

    Sergeant John Forge wielding an M90 shotgun in Halo Wars.

  • The shotgun as it appears in Halo Legends: Homecoming.

    The shotgun as it appears in Halo Legends: Homecoming.

  • Halo 2: Anniversary concept art of the M90.

    Halo 2: Anniversary concept art of the M90.

  • First-person view of the M90 in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    First-person view of the M90 in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • A Jiralhanae Minor holding an M90 shotgun in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    A Jiralhanae Minor holding an M90 shotgun in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Two Spartans using M90 shotguns in Halo 2: Anniversary multiplayer.

    Two Spartans using M90 shotguns in Halo 2: Anniversary multiplayer.

  • First-person view of the M90 on Stonetown.

    First-person view of the M90 on Stonetown.

  • The M90 being used by a Spartan on Stonetown.

    The M90 being used by a Spartan on Stonetown.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c Bungie.net, The M90A Shotgun (Retrieved on Jun 8, 2020) [local archive] [external archive]
  2. ^ a b c d e f Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 173
  3. ^ a b c d e Halo: Combat Evolved manual, page 18
  4. ^ a b c d Halo 2 manual, page 11
  5. ^ a b c Halo Encyclopedia (2011 edition), page 324
  6. ^ a b Halo: First Strike, chapter 6
  7. ^ a b c Halo: Silent Storm, chapter 25
  8. ^ a b c d e f Halo: Combat Evolved, Shotgun in-game model
  9. ^ a b c d e f Halo 2, Shotgun in-game model
  10. ^ a b c d Halo 2: Anniversary, Shotgun in-game model
  11. ^ Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, Library: Shotgun
  12. ^ Data drops, Data Drop #6
  13. ^ Halo 2 Limited Collector's Edition Manual
  14. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Cairo Station
  15. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Sacred Icon
  16. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Quarantine Zone
  17. ^ Halo 2, campaign level Uprising
  18. ^ Halo 2, campaign level The Great Journey
  19. ^ Halo 2, campaign level High Charity

v • d • e
 
List of infantry support weapons in UNSC service
Anti-vehicle weapons
Railguns ARC-920 railgun (Arclight • Whiplash)
M6 Spartan Lasers M6/E ( Endgame • Selene's Lance) • M6/R • M6/V • M6/X
Rocket launchers and recoilless rifles Hydra MLRS (MLRS-1 (Typhon • Echidna) • MLRS-2 (Pursuit)) • M149 Magellan • M19-B SAM • M41 SPNKR (M41B • M41D (Tracker) • SPNKr EM • SPNKr EX • SPNKr Prime) • M57 Pilum (Ad Victoriam • High Five) • STMPr • SGM-151 series (LAU-65D missile pod • LAU-1810 missile launcher)
Light machine guns M67 LAW • M328 LMG • M739 SAW (Appetite for Destruction • The Answer)
Medium machine guns M231 MMG
Heavy machine guns AIE-486H • HMG-38 HMG • M43 HMG • M199 HMG • M247 series (M247H (Etilka • M247 GPMG) • M247T) • M413 HMG
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