Plasma Pistol

Summary

This Covenant weapon is a semi-automatic directed energy weapon. The weapon has a secondary fire mode which consists of an overcharged bolt. After the over-charged bolt is launched the weapon temporarily stops functioning as it dumps waste heat. Use of the over-charge capability rapidly depletes the weapon's power core. We currently do not understand how to replace or recharge a power core.

This weapon uses a smaller version of the plasma technology used in the Covenant's main capital ships. By using a small magnetic field generator, the overcharged plasma bolt tracks and moves toward the nearest moving target in its fire arc. In Halo 2, tests have shown that when firing towards a group of enemies, the shot goes after a more "powerful" target like an Elite if there is one present, even if it is not the nearest foe. How this target-recognition is enabled is unknown as of yet.

Note: This weapon will deplete its energy source as you use it. It is wise to replace it as often as possible.

In Halo: Combat Evolved, the rate of fire of the Plasma Pistol was limited only by the button-pressing speed of the player. However, in Halo 2, the rate of fire is fixed to a lower rate, and no amount of rabid button-mashing can restore the rate of fire to its old level.

Technical Data

Ammunition: Plasma Bolts
Clip Size: 100 battery units
Core power output: 100-150 kV : 2-3 dA
Overcharge power output: 1.2 mV : 2-3 dA