MA5K carbine

The MA5K Carbine is a United Nations Space Command firearm used by Special Operations Forces.

Design
The MA5K is a cut-down variant of the standard MA5B Assault Rifle. The weapon is most likely lighter and easier to carry than larger assault weapons, and so it is possibly appropriate, to call it a carbine. Aesthetically, it is like a cross between an MA5B ICWS Assault Rifle and a BR55 Rifle, although the MA5K functions more like an Assault Rifle. It features a stripped-down design that appears almost skeletal.

Based on current-era tactical philosophy, it is believed that the MA5K variant, was produced specifically for Special Operations forces because of its lighter frame, which allowed for more quick maneuvering and less visible profile, and probably for its lighter aural signature, which suits the requirements of commando missions well. This would make it perfect for Marine Shock Troops and vehicle crews as well, since it wouldn't take up much room inside the vehicle.

Oddly, while it is described as a cut-down version of the MA5B, It resemble the BR-55 more. This leads to the question as to whether the appearance of the MA5K was originally intended for a different weapon.

Operational History
MA5Ks were not as often used for front line duty because of their reduced stopping power, but they came into use by the Spartan-IIIs from 2531 to 2552, especially during the Battle of Onyx.

Trivia

 * It is more like a Covenant Carbine or an SMG, such as the MA2B Assault Rifle, instead of an Assault Rifle like the MA5B or MA5C.
 * In Halo: Custom Edition, the mapping team CMT successfully created an in-game MA5K Carbine.

Related Articles

 * United Nations Space Command
 * MA2B Assault Rifle
 * MA3 Assault Rifle
 * MA5B Assault Rifle
 * MA5C Assault Rifle