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{{Era|UP|H3R|H3|LE|RVB}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Ratings}}
{{Weapon infobox
{{Weapon
|image=[[File:H3-MA5C-ICWS-AR-Left.png|350px]]
|image=[[Image:MA5C ICWS Assault Rifle.jpg|300px]]
|manufacturer=[[Misriah Armory]]{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=163}}
|name=MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System
|series=[[MA5 series]]{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|manufacturer=
|type=[[wikipedia:bullpup|Bullpup]] [[wikipedia:assault rifle|assault rifle]]
|model=[[MA5 Series|MA5C]]
|cost=1686.00 [[cR]]{{Ref/Site|Id=C|URL=http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGAssaultRifle|Site=Bungie.net|Page=MA5C Assault Rifle|D=16|M=12|Y=2007|LocalArchive=Machines, Materiel and Munitions from the Human-Covenant Conflict, 2525 - Present/MA5C}}
|type=Bullpup Assault Rifle
|variant=
|cost=1686.00 [[cR]]
|service=[[Human-Covenant War]]<br>
|size=Handheld, Two-Handed
[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
*Length:
**(o/a): 88 centimeters (34.6 inches)
**(barrel): 60.7 centimeters (24 inches)
*Weight:
**(empty): 3.8 kilograms (8.378 pounds)
**(loaded): 4.1 kilograms (9.05 pounds)
|damage per hit=Medium
|magazine=32 rounds
|maxammo=384 rounds or 12 magazines
|fire=Fully Automatic
|ammotype=[[7.62x51]]mm [[Wikipedia:FMJ|Full Metal Jacket]] rounds
|operation=Short-Stroke Gas-Operated Rotating-Bolt
|rate of fire=600 Rounds per minute, 10 rounds per second.  
|velocity= 905 m/s (2970 ft/s)
|accuracy=Low to Medium
|range= Close to semi-Medium (300 metres)<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGAssaultRifle</ref>
|era= Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST
|counterparts=
|counterwep=
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|affiliation=[[United Nations Space Command]]
|weight=
*(empty): {{Convert|3.8|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
*(loaded): {{Convert|4.1|kg|lb}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|length=
*(o/a): {{Convert|34.6|in|cm}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}{{Ref/Note|In the ''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition)]]'', the MA5C's length is contradictingly listed on page 163 as 38.9 inches (98.8 cm).}}
*(barrel): {{Convert|24|in|cm}}{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|ammotype=[[7.62x51mm|7.62×51mm Full Metal Jacket]]{{Ref/Reuse|C}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
|capacity=
|feed=32 round box magazine{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|operation=[[wikipedia:Gas-operated reloading#Short-stroke piston|Short-stroke]], [[wikipedia:Gas-operated reloading|gas-operated]], [[wikipedia:Rotating bolt|rotating-bolt]]
|rate=
*750-900 RPM{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|velocity=905 m/s (2970 ft/s){{Ref/Reuse|C}}
|optics=
|range=300 metres{{Ref/Reuse|C}}
}}
}}
{{Quote|The MA5C is the workhorse for us ground-pounders. Just holding it makes you feel like God’s own anti-son-of-a-bitch-machine.|Anonymous Marine}}
<choose><option>{{Article quote|The MA5C is the workhorse for us ground-pounders. Just holding it makes you feel like God’s own anti-son-of-a-bitch-machine.}}</option><option>
{{Article quote|I have slogged through snow and mud and sand with my MA5C; even got dumped into an open sewer with it and it has never given me a bit of complaint. I trust it like I trust my own arms.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The MA5C is built like a brick outhouse with Venetian blinds. You can pound on a mike foxtrot with it like it was a sledgehammer.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|For every time I’ve felt out-gunned by those alien bastards shooting blobs of energy at me I have felt like Death himself watching their bodies come apart under a hail of lead from my MA5C.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The Romeo Echo Mike Foxtrot’s decision to mechanically reduce the MA5C’s magazine capacity by nearly half is pretty frustrating; even if their data was showing that jamming because of loss of spring strength was becoming an issue.}}</option><option>{{Article quote|The only thing I can think of that would make the MA5C any sweeter would be an under-slung shotty or a forty mike mike.}}</option></choose>
The '''MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System''', abbreviated '''MA5C ICWS''' and commonly known as the '''MA5C assault rifle''', is a standard-issue service rifle for the [[UNSC Marine Corps]] and the [[UNSC Navy|Navy]]. Produced by [[Misriah Armory]] as part of its [[MA5 Series]], the MA5C is an improvement on the [[MA5B assault rifle|MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System]].{{Ref/Reuse|C}}


The '''MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System'''<ref>http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BAGAssaultRifle</ref> (abbreviated '''MA5C ICWS'''), more commonly known as the '''MA5C Assault Rifle''', is a standard [[United Nations Space Command]] firearm. It is the successor of the [[MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System|MA5B Assault Rifle]].
==Overview==
The MA5C assault rifle is an air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine-fed, fully-automatic bullpup rifle that fires 32 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition. It possesses a built-in ammunition indicator and compass for orientation.{{Ref/Reuse|C}} However, it features no in-built [[Telescopic sight|optical magnification]].{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


==Design Details==
The MA5C rifle has received technical, as well as physical improvements over the [[MA5B assault rifle]] that include: a heavier barrel with a 1 in 7 twist; a redesigned cowling to house the electronics suite that reduces weight and increases portability of weapon; and a redesigned handguard which is sturdier and provides a more positive grip. The magazine capacity has been reduced to 32 rounds from the original 60 in the MA5B, and the rifle's range and accuracy has been substantially improved over its predecessor, making it a more formidable assault rifle.{{Ref/Reuse|C}} While widespread in usage, the weapon lacks the component modularity and upgrades of its successor models.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}
[[Image:Halo3.comMA5C.PNG|200px|left|thumb|MA5C Assault Rifle blueprint.]]
The '''MA5C Assault Rifle''' is an air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine fed weapon designed for automatic fire. The MA5C is the third rifle in the [[MA5 Series]], the workhorse of the UNSC Marine Corps that has been in service for more then 50 years. The MA5C has an attached electronics suite that provides information on rounds remaining in magazine, compass heading, as well as several other "housekeeping" functions. The rifle performs well in a variety of environments especially given the perceived delicacy of the attached electronics suite. The MA5 Rifle can be outfitted with a number of modifications including sound suppressors, a grenade launcher or a standard issue flashlight. More “exotic” ammunition types, like [[Shredder Rounds]], are available for use, however these modifications are available only by Mission Conditional Requisition (MCR). The MA5C Assault Rifle is easily one of the most versatile weapons in the UNSC’s arsenal. Due to this versatility, the MA5C is complimented by many of the UNSC’s other weapons as either the primary means to a kill or in a secondary role as the fallback weapon. The MA5C Rifle has received technical, as well as physical improvements over the MA5B Assault Rifle that include: a heavier barrel with a 1 in 7 twist; a redesigned cowling to house the electronics suite that reduces weight and increases portability of weapon; and a redesigned handguard which is sturdier and provides a more positive grip. The magazine has been reduced to the 32 rounds from the original 60, and the rifle’s range and accuracy; has been substantially improved over its predecessor, making it a more formidable Assault Rifle.  


The MA5C is made of [[Titanium-A|Titanium Alloy]] and Polymer - the rifle is gas-operated with a rotating-bolt and therefore must be cocked before the first shot can be fired. The charging handle used to chamber the round is situated on the left side of the rifle and moves during operation. Once the first round is fired, the gases from that round and those to follow impinge upon a gas piston, which pushes back the bolt carrier, rotating the bolt inside and continuing to chamber rounds until the magazine is empty. Once the magazine is empty, the charging handle must both be pulled back and locked or, must be fully cycled after a fresh magazine is inserted to load the next round. The magazine release button is located above the magazine housing and has an arrow pointing down toward the housing. The MA5C Assault Rifle is a [[bullpup]] rifle with the magazine placed at the butt of the rifle and the electronics suite is integrated along the top rail guard of the weapon - the MA5C is design for the toughest of situations, able to be subjected to elements that would otherwise jam and render a weapon inoperable. Although, not seen during gameplay, the MA5C has concealed iron sights, used by Marines and other personnel with the improper equipment to up-linking a targeting reticule to the users [[Heads Up Display]] or [[Neural Interface]]. <ref>Halo: Contact Harvest, page 136-138, and also mentioned later in the book</ref>
A downside to the MA5C was the lack of a secondary weapon system,{{Ref/Reuse|C}} however by December [[2553]] the weapon was able to use a [[M301 grenade launcher]].{{Ref/Novel|HRet|Chapter=14}}


===Ammunition===
===Usage===
The MA5C Assault Rifle and the MA5B Assault Rifle uses M118 7.62x51mm Armor Piercing, Full Metal Jacket Rounds. These rounds are designed to pierce body armor so the rounds are reasonably large, and are surrounded by a molded jacket of either steel or titanium, which enhances its armor-piercing capabilities. The round might also have a carbide or similar hardened tip, and might also be coated in copper or another metal over the steel, titanium, etc. shell. Actual energy from this round is 2472 ft·lb force. This is quite high for a rifle cartridge, and the round has been historically noted for its power and range. "7.62mm" is the diameter of the bullet itself, which equates to .3 tenths of an inch, or .30 caliber. The "51mm" comes from the length of the brass casing containing the powder and primer. Often being associated with a considerable amount of recoil, the MA5C appears to be able to absorb it so the weapon remains steady even during cyclic fire. Armor-piercing rounds have the obvious advantage of being able to deal with protected targets, but instead of causing larger wound channels by tumbling like lower-caliber ball or non-jacketed munitions, AP rounds have a tendency to over-penetrate the body, causing less overall trauma.
The MA5C has been in service with the UNSC as early as [[2526]].{{Ref/Novel|Id=HSS3|HSS|Chapter=3}} The MA5C became one of the most prominent rifles used by the UNSC during the closing days of the [[Human-Covenant War]], and was heavily used by [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]] forces during the [[Battle for Earth]] and the [[Battle of Installation 00|Ark Conflict]].{{Ref/Game|H3|[[Assault Rifle]] in-game weapon}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}} By [[2557]], the MA5C had been largely replaced by the [[MA5D assault rifle]],{{Ref/Book|Id=H4VG|H4EVG|Page=60}} although it continued to see usage by reserve units scattered abroad.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22}}


==Gameplay==
===Advantages===
===Advantages===
The MA5C in both offensive and suppressive situations remains the Marine Corps' most reliable weapon. When fired in short bursts the MA5C Rifle can be effective at hitting targets at longer ranges, the rifles armor penetrating ability makes it key for handling even the toughest of infantry. The MA5C Rifle is effective at killing armored infantry at short-to-medium range - its high rate of fire allows its user to spray an area with suppression fire in defensive situations. At close range, the MA5C is arguably deadlier than the [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]], as the firepower is approximately equal. The MA5C also provides the user with an ammo count on its digital readout, as well a compass pointing toward the arbitrary magnetic "north" position. In the hands of someone who can control their trigger finger, the MA5C becomes a deadly weapon in close-quarter situations.
The MA5C in both offensive and suppressive situations remains the Marine Corps' most reliable weapon. When fired in short bursts the MA5C can be effective at hitting targets at longer ranges, and the rifle's armor penetrating ability makes it key for handling even the toughest of infantry. The MA5C is effective at killing armored infantry at short-to-medium range and its high rate of fire allows its user to spray an area with suppression fire in defensive situations. At close range, the MA5C is arguably deadlier than the [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun]], as the firepower is approximately equal. The MA5C also provides the user with an ammo count on its digital readout, as well a compass pointing toward the arbitrary magnetic "north" position. In the hands of someone who can control their trigger finger, the MA5C becomes a deadly weapon in close-quarter situations.


===Disadvantages===
===Disadvantages===
The MA5C's main disadvantage is that it is grossly inaccurate when fired in full-automatic. Even though substantially better than the MA5B,&nbsp;it is too inaccurate for use at longer ranges, which makes the user an easy target for long range weapons - at long range a high ratio of misses to hits is likely, especially if the target is moving. The magazine can run out very quickly in fully automatic fire and has relatively low power per round compared to many other weapons, an engagement with numerous and/or particularly resilient enemies will likely require the user to reload a few times before they die. It should be used as a secondary weapon for shorter ranges, paired with a longer range weapon like a [[BR55HB SR Battle Rifle|Battle Rifle]]
The MA5C's main disadvantage is that it is horribly inaccurate when fired in full-automatic. Although substantially more accurate than the MA5B, it is still too inaccurate for use at longer ranges, which makes the user an easy target for long range weapons - at long range a high ratio of misses to hits is likely, especially if the target is moving. The magazine can run out very quickly in fully automatic fire, and it has relatively low power per round compared to many other weapons; an engagement with numerous and/or particularly resilient enemies will likely require the user to reload a few times, leaving them open to counter-fire. It should be used as a secondary weapon for shorter ranges, paired with a long range weapon like the [[BR55HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] or [[Vostu-pattern carbine|Covenant Carbine]].


===Influences===
===Changes from the MA5B in ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to MA5C in ''Halo 3''===
The MA5C is based on a few different weapons. One inspiration for the MA5C Assault Rifle was the MA–75B Assault Rifle (with integral 40mm Grenade Launcher) from the Marathon series. Another inspiration was the M-590 7.62mm assault rifle of the USMC from 1995-1996 TV series ''Space: Above and Beyond''. The MA5 series of Assault Rifles have a very similar outline as the real world FN 2000 assault rifle. The weapons designer Robert McLees, claims he wasn't inspired by the FN 2000 and similarities are purely coincidental.
*Different firing sound.
 
==Changes from the MA5B in [[Halo: Combat Evolved]]==
*Longer barrel for greater accuracy.
*Redesigned electronics suite cowling to reduce weight and increase point ability.
*Decreased magazine capacity 32 rounds, down from 60.
*Increased maximum magazines.
*Increased maximum magazines.
*Decreased magazine capacity down from 60 rounds to 32.
*Increased range and increased damage per round.
*Increased range and increased damage per round.
*Decreased rate of fire and a faster reload time.
*Decreased rate of fire and a faster reload time.
*Decreased projectile speed.


==Tactics==
===Changes from ''Halo 3'' to ''Halo 3: ODST''===
The MA5C Assault Rifle is one of the weapons which players will love and loathe in equal measures. The rifle's rate of fire makes it a devastatingly powerful weapon in close range combats, and it's melee attack usually ensures victory in close quarter battles. In a skilled player's hand, the Assault Rifle can easily be a formidable weapon.
*Firing sound is amplified.
==Non-canon and dubious canon appearances==
===Silver Timeline===
{{Notice/Silver|category=no}}
MA5C assault rifles were used by [[Silver Team/Silver|Silver Team]] and other UNSC personnel in battles against the Covenant.{{Ref/YouTube|Id=HTVOT|5KZ3MKraNKY|Paramount+|Halo The Series (2022) Official Trailer|Y=2022|M=1|D=30}} [[John-117/Silver|John-117's]] MA5C was stylized with a "117" on the side of the barrel.{{Ref/Reuse|Inheritance}}


===Campaign===
During [[Operation: DEFIANT GLASS]], [[John-117/Silver|John-117]] used an MA5C against attacking [[Sangheili]] forces before ultimately discarding the weapon in favor of a more effective machine gun turret. Rather than opting to retrieve his gun, John left the assault rifle abandoned in the base when he left,{{Ref/Film|TV|Episode=[[Contact]]}} likely because there was only one bullet left in it.{{Ref/Reuse|Inheritance}}
*Another tactic for medium range AR combat is to "rapid-pulse" the trigger; in other words, rapidly press your finger down on the trigger, as if firing a semi-automatic weapon, like the [[Type-51 Carbine|Carbine]]. This will result in rapid, accurate, controlled bursts. This is very useful in the early levels of the game.
*Using controlled bursts, you can increase the accuracy and take down shielded Brutes power armor and finish them off with a melee.
*In [[Halo 3: ODST]] the MA5C is a useful weapon to use on Legendary, if used in controlled bursts it can be used to dispatch [[Jackals]] with ease.


===Multiplayer===
During the [[Battle of Eridanus II/Silver|Battle of Eridanus II]], John was given an assault rifle by a Marine as he had yet to replace the one that he had discarded on Madrigal. While driving a [[M12 Warthog|Warthog]], John placed the weapon on the passenger's seat and left it there when he left the vehicle to help [[Kai-125/Silver|Kai-125]].{{Ref/Film|TV|[[Reckoning]]}}
*Due to its high rate of fire, it is very capable of whittling down shielding in about less than two seconds. If the opponent does not have an [[Energy Sword]], [[Shotgun]], [[Mauler]], or other short-ranged weapons, then a good strategy is to get into close range and charge them, while firing all the way.
*If the other player has Sword, Shotgun or Mauler, then do not get up close to them. Although long range weapons are the Achilles heel of the Assault Rifle, the weapons aforementioned would easily overpower the Assault Rifle at close range. Instead use short controlled bursts while backing up to take them down if you run out of ammo try quickly switching to your secondary weapon to finish them off
*Another tactic is to use the rifle for suppression fire.  This means that you can spray the area of a target in order to get the enemy to keep their heads down. This is especially helpful if you are being fired upon by a sniper because even if one round hits the sniper, they are knocked out of the scope and become disoriented. This gives you a chance to find cover or move in for the kill.
*The [[Fragmentation Grenade]] used in combination with the Assault Rifle is also extremely effective. For example, if you are being pursued, jump around a corner and quickly throw the Fragmentation Grenade to bring down the target's shield. Once your gun is back in hand, open fire. This should most likely bring your target down, provided you don't get caught in your own grenade's blast radius, else you'd be in the same situation as your adversary, although it usually depends on your enemy's weapon and skill.
*Do not aim for the head; since automatic weapons have no headshot multiplier, and the MA5C is not an exception. You will just more likely waste ammo and have more shots go astray rather than kill you opponent faster, since the head is obviously a smaller target.


==UNSC Remarks==
After returning to [[Jin Ha|her father]]'s [[Jin Ha's Outpost|outpost]], [[Kwan Ha]] discovered John's discarded assault rifle half-hidden under a truck. Kwan used the gun to detonate the Sky Pipe, killing [[Vinsher Grath]] and all of his forces. Kwan subsequently kept the weapon for herself.{{Ref/Film|Id=Inheritance|TV|Episode=[[Inheritance]]}}
*“I have slogged through snow and mud and sand with my MA5C; even got dumped into an open sewer with it and it has never given me a bit of complaint. I trust it like I trust my own arms.”
*“The MA5C is built like a brick outhouse with Venetian blinds. You can pound on a mike foxtrot with it like it was a sledgehammer.”
*“For every time I’ve felt out-gunned by those alien bastards shooting blobs of energy at me I have felt like Death himself watching their bodies come apart under a hail of lead from my MA5C.”
*“The Romeo Echo Mike Foxtrot’s decision to mechanically reduce the MA5C’s magazine capacity by nearly half is pretty frustrating; even if their data was showing that jamming because of loss of spring strength was becoming an issue.”
*“The only thing I can think of that would make the MA5C any sweeter would be an under-slung shotty or a forty mike mike.”


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*All pre-release public pictures of the MA5C in first person showed [[Battle Rifle]] animations as placeholders before the final animations were in place in the final game.
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|gallery=yes|gallerypage=Images of MA5C assault rifle}}
*On the butt of the MA5C, a small [[List of Marathon references in Halo|Marathon Symbol]] can be found. It is also found on the left side of the weapon just below the charging handle.  
===References===
*When tested, each individual round of the MA5C actually does slightly more damage than the [[BR55HB SR]]. However, this is offset by the MA5C's lower accuracy at mid-long range, and the fact that it has no headshot bonus.
*On the butt of the MA5C, a small [[List of Marathon references in Halo|''Marathon'' symbol]] can be found. It is also found on the left side of the weapon just below the charging handle.
*In most Matchmaking games in ''Halo 3'', you begin with this weapon as a default primary weapon. From "Title Update 2", you now start with a secondary [[M6G Personal Defense Weapon System|Magnum]].
 
*In the ''[[Halo 3 Beta]]'', the charging handle of the MA5C had an animation. This is, however, not present in ''Halo 3''.
===Miscellaneous===
*When Bungie was designing the Assault Rifle, they stated they wanted "the ultimate spawning weapon"; being very balanced, but not overly powerful.
*All pre-release public pictures of the MA5C in first person showed BR55 animations as placeholders before the final animations were in place in the final game.
*In ''Fable 2'', the MA5C can be obtained in the Knothole Island Expansion pack. It is called "Hal's Rifle".
*In the ''[[Halo 3 Beta]]'', the charging handle of the MA5C had an animation. However, this is not present in ''Halo 3''.
*The MA5C appears quite commonly throughout the campaign of ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', but is not featured in [[Firefight]] mode.
*The green button on the MA5C is a power on/off switch for the weapon's flashlight, which is never used in game by playable characters.
*When tested, each individual round of the MA5C actually does slightly more damage than the BR55HB SR. However, this is offset by the MA5C's lower accuracy at mid-long range and the fact that it has no headshot bonus.
*The remastered MA5B in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]'' uses the MA5C's model.{{Ref/YouTube|UYfNBCHYHFE|Halo|Halo: Anniversary Exclusive Pre-Order Grunt Funeral Skull}}
*In ''[[Wikipedia:Fable 2|Fable 2]]'', the MA5C can be obtained in the Knothole Island expansion pack. It is called [[Fable:Hal's Rifle|"Hal's Rifle"]].
*The 1/7 barrel twist rate is not optimal for the ammunition the MA5C uses; this would generally cause the projectile to become very unstable (and thus, more inaccurate) as it travels through the air. 7.62×51mm rounds are usually fired through barrels with a 1/10, 1/11, or 1/12 twist.
 
===Mistakes===
*The MA5C's reload animation depicts the player character pushing the charging handle forward after reloading, though realistically he would need only to pull the handle back slightly before it launched forward by itself. Also, the character is seen "riding" the charging handle with his finger as it slides forward. This can cause malfunctions in modern weapons, as riding the charging handle while the bolt carrier goes forward can prevent the bolt from going fully into battery.
*The ''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]'' incorrectly states that the MA5C has a reduced magazine size of twenty-four rounds despite the adjacent image showing the ammunition counter of an MA5C which contains thirty-two rounds.
*''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]'' incorrectly states that the MA5 series does not appear in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' despite the MA5C's presence.


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
Image:Gungj8.jpg|A render of the MA5C.
File:HALO3 CGI.jpg|[[John-117]] looking at his MA5C in ''[[Starry Night]]''.
Image:MA5 Ammo.jpg|An ammo pack for the MA5 series rifle.  
File:Halo3 diorama 0749-2-.jpg|Marines using MA5C assault rifles in ''[[Believe]]''.
Image:MA5B AR ammo.jpg|A 7.62mm FMJ Round.
File:Halo Uprising Pic.jpg|John-117 with an MA5C in ''[[Halo: Uprising]]''.
Image:Through the Eyes of the Chief.jpg|the MA5C reticle and ammo counter as seen on the MJOLNIR [[HUD]].
File:Halo3.comMA5C.PNG|Schematic of the MA5C.
Image:Marines(2).jpg|Marines on Tsavo Highway using the MA5C rifle.
File:H3-MA5C-ICWS-AR-Right.png|Right-side view of the MA5C in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
Image:MA5C Firing.gif|A gold [[SPARTAN Program|Spartan]] firing an MA5C.
File:MA5C ICWS Assault Rifle.png|A top-down view of the MA5C.
Image:MA5C Animation.gif|A gray Spartan holding an MA5C with a sniper rifle slung across his back.
File:Halo3-MasterChief-MA5C.png|Master Chief wielding an MA5C while walking.
Image:Hals-rifle.jpg|Hal's rifle from ''Fable 2''.
File:Halo3-MasterChief-Crouch.png|Master Chief wielding an MA5C while crouching.
File:H3-MasterChief-Shooting-Large.jpg|The Master Chief firing an MA5C in-game on the level [[Halo (Halo 3 level)|Halo]], on [[Installation 08]].
File:Through the Eyes of the Chief.jpg|The MA5C reticule and ammo counter as seen on the MJOLNIR [[heads up display]].
File:Marines(2).jpg|Marines on [[Tsavo highway (location)|Tsavo Highway]] using the MA5C rifle.
File:Hals-rifle.jpg|Hal's Rifle from ''[[Wikipedia:Fable 2|Fable 2]]''.
File:Buck.jpg|[[Edward Buck]] firing an MA5C during the [[Battle of Mombasa]] in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.
File:Johnson - Origins.png|[[Avery Johnson]] with an MA5C in ''[[Halo Legends]]'': ''[[Origins]]''.
File:Legends SPARTAN-II team.jpg|John-117 with an MA5C during [[Operation: WARM BLANKET]] in ''Halo Legends'': ''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''.
File:H2A Terminals - Jai vs Thel.jpg|[[Jai-006]] attempting to kill [[Thel 'Vadam]]ee with an MA5C during the [[Battle of the Rubble]] in the ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]'' [[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|terminals]].
File:HSS-John.png|John-117 with an MA5C in ''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''.
File:HTMCC H3 AssaultRifles.jpg|A rack of MA5Cs in the ''[[Finish The Fight]]'' trailer.
File:HTMCC_H3_AssaultRifle_Closeup.jpg|A closeup view of an MA5C.
File:HTV-MA5C.jpg|[[John-117/Silver|John-117]] with an MA5C in ''[[Halo: The Television Series]]''.
File:HTV-MA5CLondon.jpg|Prop of an MA5C.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==Sources==
==List of appearances==
<references/>
{{Col-begin}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Starry Night]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Believe]]''
**''[[Diorama]]'' {{C|Diorama only}}
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo: Helljumper]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST Pre-mission Evaluation]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[Prototype]]''
**''[[The Package (animated short)|The Package]]''
*''[[Halo Evolutions]]''
**''[[Human Weakness]]''
**''[[The Mona Lisa]]''
*''[[Halo: Bloodline]]''
*''[[Remember Reach]]''
**''[[Patrol]]''
**''[[Deliver Hope]]''
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]''
*''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal (Halo 2: Anniversary)|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
*''[[Halo Mythos]]''
*''[[Halo: Retribution]]''
*''[[Halo: Silent Storm]]''
*''[[Halo: Official Spartan Field Manual]]''
*''[[Halo: Oblivion]]''
*''[[Halo: The Television Series Season One]]''
**''[[Contact]]''
**''[[Reckoning]]''
**''[[Solace (TV Series)|Solace]]''
**''[[Inheritance]]''
**''[[Transcendence]]''
{{Col-end}}


==Related Links==
==Notes==
===Internal Links===
{{Ref/Notes}}
*[[MA2B Assault Rifle]]
*[[MA3 Assault Rifle]]
*[[MA5B Assault Rifle]]
*[[MA5K Carbine]]


===External Links===
==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{UNSC Infantry Weapons}}
{{UNSC rifles}}
[[Category:Held Weapons]]
[[Category:Human Weapons]]
[[Category:Assault rifles]]
[[Category:Assault rifles]]
[[Category:UNSC]]
[[Category:Halo 3]]
[[Category:Human]]
[[Category:Weapons]]
[[Category:Halo 3: ODST]]

Latest revision as of 03:42, April 5, 2024

MA5C assault rifle
H3-MA5C-ICWS-AR-Left.png
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Misriah Armory[1]

Model series:

MA5 series[1]

Type:

Bullpup assault rifle

Cost:

1686.00 cR[2]

Specifications

Length:

  • (o/a): 34.6 inches (88 cm)[2][Note 1]
  • (barrel): 24 inches (61 cm)[2]

Weight:

  • (empty): 3.8 kilograms (8.4 lb)[2]
  • (loaded): 4.1 kilograms (9.0 lb)[2]

Ammunition type:

7.62×51mm Full Metal Jacket[2][1]

Feed system:

32 round box magazine[2]

Operation:

Short-stroke, gas-operated, rotating-bolt

Rate of fire:

Muzzle velocity:

905 m/s (2970 ft/s)[2]

Effective range:

300 metres[2]

Service history

In service:

Human-Covenant War
Post-Covenant War conflicts

 
“ For every time I’ve felt out-gunned by those alien bastards shooting blobs of energy at me I have felt like Death himself watching their bodies come apart under a hail of lead from my MA5C. ”

The MA5C Individual Combat Weapon System, abbreviated MA5C ICWS and commonly known as the MA5C assault rifle, is a standard-issue service rifle for the UNSC Marine Corps and the Navy. Produced by Misriah Armory as part of its MA5 Series, the MA5C is an improvement on the MA5B Individual Combat Weapon System.[2]

Overview[edit]

The MA5C assault rifle is an air-cooled, gas-operated, magazine-fed, fully-automatic bullpup rifle that fires 32 rounds of 7.62×51mm ammunition. It possesses a built-in ammunition indicator and compass for orientation.[2] However, it features no in-built optical magnification.[1]

The MA5C rifle has received technical, as well as physical improvements over the MA5B assault rifle that include: a heavier barrel with a 1 in 7 twist; a redesigned cowling to house the electronics suite that reduces weight and increases portability of weapon; and a redesigned handguard which is sturdier and provides a more positive grip. The magazine capacity has been reduced to 32 rounds from the original 60 in the MA5B, and the rifle's range and accuracy has been substantially improved over its predecessor, making it a more formidable assault rifle.[2] While widespread in usage, the weapon lacks the component modularity and upgrades of its successor models.[1]

A downside to the MA5C was the lack of a secondary weapon system,[2] however by December 2553 the weapon was able to use a M301 grenade launcher.[3]

Usage[edit]

The MA5C has been in service with the UNSC as early as 2526.[4] The MA5C became one of the most prominent rifles used by the UNSC during the closing days of the Human-Covenant War, and was heavily used by Marine forces during the Battle for Earth and the Ark Conflict.[5][1] By 2557, the MA5C had been largely replaced by the MA5D assault rifle,[6] although it continued to see usage by reserve units scattered abroad.[1]

Gameplay[edit]

Advantages[edit]

The MA5C in both offensive and suppressive situations remains the Marine Corps' most reliable weapon. When fired in short bursts the MA5C can be effective at hitting targets at longer ranges, and the rifle's armor penetrating ability makes it key for handling even the toughest of infantry. The MA5C is effective at killing armored infantry at short-to-medium range and its high rate of fire allows its user to spray an area with suppression fire in defensive situations. At close range, the MA5C is arguably deadlier than the M7/Caseless Submachine Gun, as the firepower is approximately equal. The MA5C also provides the user with an ammo count on its digital readout, as well a compass pointing toward the arbitrary magnetic "north" position. In the hands of someone who can control their trigger finger, the MA5C becomes a deadly weapon in close-quarter situations.

Disadvantages[edit]

The MA5C's main disadvantage is that it is horribly inaccurate when fired in full-automatic. Although substantially more accurate than the MA5B, it is still too inaccurate for use at longer ranges, which makes the user an easy target for long range weapons - at long range a high ratio of misses to hits is likely, especially if the target is moving. The magazine can run out very quickly in fully automatic fire, and it has relatively low power per round compared to many other weapons; an engagement with numerous and/or particularly resilient enemies will likely require the user to reload a few times, leaving them open to counter-fire. It should be used as a secondary weapon for shorter ranges, paired with a long range weapon like the battle rifle or Covenant Carbine.

Changes from the MA5B in Halo: Combat Evolved to MA5C in Halo 3[edit]

  • Different firing sound.
  • Increased maximum magazines.
  • Decreased magazine capacity down from 60 rounds to 32.
  • Increased range and increased damage per round.
  • Decreased rate of fire and a faster reload time.
  • Decreased projectile speed.

Changes from Halo 3 to Halo 3: ODST[edit]

  • Firing sound is amplified.

Non-canon and dubious canon appearances[edit]

Silver Timeline[edit]

HTV-SilverTeam logo.png
 This article contains information about the Silver Timeline, and is not a part of the established Halo canon.

MA5C assault rifles were used by Silver Team and other UNSC personnel in battles against the Covenant.[7] John-117's MA5C was stylized with a "117" on the side of the barrel.[8]

During Operation: DEFIANT GLASS, John-117 used an MA5C against attacking Sangheili forces before ultimately discarding the weapon in favor of a more effective machine gun turret. Rather than opting to retrieve his gun, John left the assault rifle abandoned in the base when he left,[9] likely because there was only one bullet left in it.[8]

During the Battle of Eridanus II, John was given an assault rifle by a Marine as he had yet to replace the one that he had discarded on Madrigal. While driving a Warthog, John placed the weapon on the passenger's seat and left it there when he left the vehicle to help Kai-125.[10]

After returning to her father's outpost, Kwan Ha discovered John's discarded assault rifle half-hidden under a truck. Kwan used the gun to detonate the Sky Pipe, killing Vinsher Grath and all of his forces. Kwan subsequently kept the weapon for herself.[8]

Trivia[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to MA5C assault rifle on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.

References[edit]

  • On the butt of the MA5C, a small Marathon symbol can be found. It is also found on the left side of the weapon just below the charging handle.

Miscellaneous[edit]

  • All pre-release public pictures of the MA5C in first person showed BR55 animations as placeholders before the final animations were in place in the final game.
  • In the Halo 3 Beta, the charging handle of the MA5C had an animation. However, this is not present in Halo 3.
  • The green button on the MA5C is a power on/off switch for the weapon's flashlight, which is never used in game by playable characters.
  • When tested, each individual round of the MA5C actually does slightly more damage than the BR55HB SR. However, this is offset by the MA5C's lower accuracy at mid-long range and the fact that it has no headshot bonus.
  • The remastered MA5B in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary uses the MA5C's model.[11]
  • In Fable 2, the MA5C can be obtained in the Knothole Island expansion pack. It is called "Hal's Rifle".
  • The 1/7 barrel twist rate is not optimal for the ammunition the MA5C uses; this would generally cause the projectile to become very unstable (and thus, more inaccurate) as it travels through the air. 7.62×51mm rounds are usually fired through barrels with a 1/10, 1/11, or 1/12 twist.

Mistakes[edit]

  • The MA5C's reload animation depicts the player character pushing the charging handle forward after reloading, though realistically he would need only to pull the handle back slightly before it launched forward by itself. Also, the character is seen "riding" the charging handle with his finger as it slides forward. This can cause malfunctions in modern weapons, as riding the charging handle while the bolt carrier goes forward can prevent the bolt from going fully into battery.
  • The Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition) incorrectly states that the MA5C has a reduced magazine size of twenty-four rounds despite the adjacent image showing the ammunition counter of an MA5C which contains thirty-two rounds.
  • Halo: The Essential Visual Guide incorrectly states that the MA5 series does not appear in Halo 3: ODST despite the MA5C's presence.

Gallery[edit]

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ In the Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), the MA5C's length is contradictingly listed on page 163 as 38.9 inches (98.8 cm).

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 163
  2. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n Bungie.net, MA5C Assault Rifle (Retrieved on Dec 16, 2007) [local archive] [external archive]
  3. ^ Halo: Retribution, chapter 14
  4. ^ Halo: Silent Storm, chapter 3
  5. ^ Halo 3, Assault Rifle in-game weapon
  6. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 60
  7. ^ YouTube - Paramount+, Halo The Series (2022) Official Trailer (Retrieved on Jan 30, 2022)
  8. ^ a b c Halo: The Television Series, episode Inheritance
  9. ^ Halo: The Television Series, episode Contact
  10. ^ Halo: The Television Series, timestamp Reckoning
  11. ^ YouTube - Halo, Halo: Anniversary Exclusive Pre-Order Grunt Funeral Skull

v • d • e
 
List of rifles and carbines used by humanity
MA series MA1 • MA2B • MA3A • MA40 (Longshot)
MA5 series variants MA37 • MA5B • MA5C • MA5D
Other assault rifles HMG-38 Monitor Rifle • VK78 Commando (Impact)
CM 300 • M6J/C • MA5K
BR55 series XBR55 • BR55 • BR55HB
BR75 series BR75 • BR75 Breacher
BR85 series BR85 • BR85HB • BR85N
Other BR series rifles BRXX Lightfire
Other battle rifles "Maestro"
M295 • M392 • M395 (M395B)
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