Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle

The is a popular weapon, used through out the known universe as a rifle, personal defence weapon or side arm, depending on the user. It is one of the most populous weapons in known space, with vast stockpiles being left after the war.

Description
The Type-25 was original manufactured several years after the Sangheili-San 'Shyuum war. The Type-25 was based on the San 'Shyuum's primary weapon, which for them was a rifle like weapon. However, for the larger, stronger Sangheili it was more akin to a submachine gun or a carbine. Whilst there were reservations about taking it on, the Sangheili sense of honour dictated they should be close enough to the enemy to use it effectively. The Covenant's new tactics of high speed, high mobility warfare suited the weapon excellently as well. During the pacification of the Unggoy, Kig-Yar, Jiralhanae and Yanme'e, it proved exceptionally effective, being robust, easy to use and if all else failed, a excellent club. However, during bot the wars against the Plainsfierians and Humans, it proved ineffectual, as both factions had developed powerful service rifles effective from short to long range. This lead to much larger deployments of units equipped with Carbines or Needle Rifles, as well as the adoption of the Plasma Repeater.

Despite being made redundant by the Plasma Repeater, and Storm Rifle, the Plasma Rifle is still used in vast amounts by the Republic. Infantrymen carrying heavy weapons may keep it as their secondary weapon, or vehicle crews use it to defend themselves. It is also often used by officers who also carry swords. More often than not though, it is used by infantry expecting to fight in close quarters situations.

The Plasma Rifle is robust and surprisingly simple machine, at least by Forerunner mechanics. It consists of two plasma accelerators powered by a single energy cell. Both units have low heat generation, meaning it doesn't require a large, clunky cooling shroud and can make do with a smaller pair of units to control heat generation. While the gun does overheat, it requires constant fire for some time to do it. The mechanics are reinforced and covered in tough plating, allowing it be used as a club if needs be, without fear of non functionality. The energy cell can be replaced, using the same modular energy cell that powers battle harness units, and other energy weapons. Though the non-instrumental nature of it initially lead to confusion for many operators, its commonly known now. The gun is fitted with an attached optical sight, that is compatible with Sangheili harnesses, UNSC systems and Plansfierian battle armour. There are alos system patches availible so Vorenus and Machina can use them in conjunction with their armour.

The Plasma Rifle was manufactured in staggering amounts during the war, and now sees wide use across the known galaxy. Its used by the United Sangheili Republic, Covenant Remnant, Kig-Yar Union, Unggoy protectorates, Jiralhanae Alliance and Yanme'e hives. It's also used by by rebel and mercenary forces in USR and UEG space, as well as the demilitarised zone. Versions manufactured for use with humans are also being seen in large amounts, being manufactured by Kig-Yar Union and Pirates, in very illegal foundries.