Eos'Mak-pattern plasma pistol: Difference between revisions

The '''Plasma Pistol''' is a [[Covenant]] [[Directed Energy Weapon]] that uses superheated ionized gas called [[plasma]] rather than traditional [[human]] ballistic ammunition. The weapon has a power output of 100-150 KV @ 2~3 dA, but when overcharged, the power output is 1.5 MV @ 2~3 dA. The Type-25 DEP is standard-issue for lower-ranking Covenant infantry such as [[Unggoy]], [[Kig-Yar]] and Yamne'e, but is occasionally used by higher ranking species within the Covenant such as [[Ossoona]] [[Elites]]; as such, it is the most commonly encountered Covenant energy weapon. If fired quickly enough, the Plasma Pistol is capable of firing at the same rate of fire as the [[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle|Type-25 DER]]. Against UNSC infantry, the Type-25 Pistol's lethality to personnel is extreme; injuries inflicted to the victim are severe third-degree burns and in some cases, fourth degree burns, with the wound being cauterized instantly upon impact. Even near misses will produce severe burns and heat trauma. Should the plasma impact an object, the impact can create molten fragments that may come into contact with a victim, with crippling or lethal effect. Generally two hits from either a Plasma Pistol or Plasma Rifle will kill a light or non armored target. The Type-25 Pistol also has the ability to charge a single superheated bolt, which can instantly deplete almost any form of energy shielding and disable vehicle mechanics temporarily, and if an overcharged bolt were to hit a flesh-based target, it will result in an instant kill. This high-powered shot makes the Plasma Pistol a formidable strategic weapon, however like its counterpart, over-extended periods of fire will overheat the weapon. In the context of the ''Halo'' games, all of the plasma weapons' strength and lethality are compensated for both the sake of ESRB rating and gameplay. In books, '''Plasma Pistols '''and '''Plasma Rifles''' literally melt the insides of its target, often producing a very foul smell.