The benefits and curses of technology are manifold, but one invention stands out: the gun. This is as true in roleplaying as it is in history. As the adventurers plan their actions, one of their first questions is likely to be, “What guns can we have?”
Firearms ignite a chemical charge whose expanding gases directly or indirectly impart motion to a projectile or projectiles of some variety (see Ammunition and Warheads). Guns come in widely different layouts and patterns – from tiny holdout pistols to huge vehicular weapons. They first appear at TL3, in the form of cumbersome, unreliable smoothbores.
At TL5, rifled barrels begin to supersede smoothbore ones in most applications. These impart spin to the projectile, making it more accurate. As well, older lock types are replaced by first the flintlock action, then the caplock action, and finally the self-contained cartridge – progressively improving reloading times, reliability, accuracy, and power. Successful repeating firearms appear at TL5, too, offering several shots instead of just one.
The most important invention at TL6 is smokeless propellant, which increases power and reliability. It also does away with the huge smoke clouds typical of TL5 battlefields. Self-loading and full-automatic actions are invented and perfected, and semiautomatic weapons and machine guns soon become widely available.
At TL7, firearms become lighter and more reliable. The introduction of shaped-charge munitions to defeat even the thickest armor – and the means to launch them – makes man-portable weapons once again dangerous to armored fighting vehicles.
The trend toward light, reliable weaponry continues at TL8. The most important changes occur in the fields of ammunition and targeting equipment, however. Night-vision devices are more effective than ever, and targeting lasers see wide-scale use.
This section describes specific historical firearms – not generic ones. These are suitable “as is” for historical and pseudo-historical campaigns. In alternate-worlds games, simply change the names and/or designations.
Examples: The .455 Magnum Armory A-81 pistol from Dixie-1 can use the stats of the IMI Desert Eagle. The Atchisson Type 4 flechette gun can be represented by the Daewoo USAS-12 shotgun using MF ammo.
The heading above each weapon description includes make, model, caliber, country of origin, and period of manufacture. It always refers to a specific version of a certain weapon. The same is true of the corresponding statistics in the relevant weapon table. In many cases, the notes under the heading discuss different models, variants, predecessors, and copies. Except as indicated, these use the same game statistics as the version in the table.
The notation and abbreviations used in this section obey Weapon Statistics (pp. B268-271), with these additions:
RoF: Firearms capable of firing high-cyclic controlled bursts (p. 83) have a number sign (#) after RoF.
Shots: Weapons that can load an additional round directly into the chamber (p. 88) have a “+1” appended to Shots.
Bulk: Weapons with folding or retracting stocks (p. 160) have an asterisk (*) next to Bulk. With stock folded, Bulk improves a step (e.g., from -4 to -3).
Rcl: Shotguns have two Rcl figures. Use the first when firing shot, the second when firing slugs or other single projectiles.
Cost: Weapons with detachable magazines (or other removable feed devices) have two costs separated by a slash. The first is the price of an unloaded weapon with one empty magazine. The second is the price of a spare empty magazine.
Improvements to firearm quality typically affect either accuracy or reliability. The two options can be combined. It’s also possible to add Styling (p. 10), alone or with other improvements, to create “presentation” weapons. These rules expand on the standard examples on p. B280 (which are both “accurate” and “reliable”).
Fine (Accurate). The shooter’s quest for accuracy commonly lands guns on the gunsmith’s bench. By improving the fit of individual parts and installing expensive precision-manufactured components, set triggers, custommade target grips, etc., a gunsmith can improve quality to fine (accurate). This only benefits weapons with a base Acc of at least 2, and gives +1 Acc. The necessary modifications require an Armoury (Small Arms) roll and five hours’ work. Cost is 75% of the gun’s cost.
Very Fine (Accurate). If the weapon has a base Acc of at least 4, further work can improve quality to very fine (accurate). This grants +2 Acc. This is very rare, and typically confined to the best target rifles available! The modifications require an Armoury (Small Arms) roll and 25 hours’ work. Cost is five times that of basic accurizing; that is, 375% of the gun’s cost.
Fine (Reliable).* By polishing and re-angling the feed ramp in self-loading weapons, installing new springs, custom-fitting all components, etc., a gunsmith can improve quality to fine (reliable). This increases the malfunction number (p. B407) by a step; e.g., from 16 to 17. Improving a weapon with Malf. 17 leaves Malf. at 17 – but roll again whenever a malfunction would occur. Unless this roll also indicates a malfunction, no malfunction occurs. The modifications require an Armoury (Small Arms) roll and two hours’ work. Cost is 25% of the gun’s cost.
Very Fine (Reliable).* Further work can improve Malf. by two steps. This is exceedingly rare except on the best target and sporting weapons available. The modifications require an Armoury (Small Arms) roll and 10 hours’ work. Cost is five times that of increasing reliability to fine; that is, 125% of the gun’s cost.
* Full-automatic weapons can’t be improved to fine or very fine (reliable), but some start out more reliable than usual, as noted on the weapon tables.
A gunsmith can convert most semiautomatic weapons to full-automatic or selective-fire. The necessary work may be trivial or extremely involved, depending on the firearm. Some guns require only the modification of a few parts, others need new parts, and the most complicated demand extensive alterations to the entire mechanism.
For example, converting a Winchester M1 carbine (p. 113) or certain open-bolt pistols like the original semiautomatic TEC-9 (p. 101) is a favorable task, with a +1 difficulty modifier (see p. B345). Converting a Colt AR-15 (p. 117) is an average task, with no modifier. Converting a pistol such as a Walther PPK (p. 99) or a Colt Government (pp. 98-99) to a selective-fire machine pistol is an unfavorable task: -1.
With suitable parts and tools, conversion requires an Armoury (Small Arms) roll and 10 minutes’ work for a favorable task, 12 hours’ work for an average task, and two days’ work for an unfavorable task.
Like all tools, firearms have to be treated well in order to remain serviceable. And like all weapons, guns must be handled carefully in order to avoid accidental injuries to the wielder or to bystanders. Below are several optional rules for such matters, intended for gaming groups that enjoy maximum realism in their games.
In a realistic campaign, a firearm should always be considered loaded. Those who run around with a finger on the trigger, try to climb a ladder with a pistol in hand, drop a loaded weapon as a “free action,” and so on are inviting accidental discharge. Whenever somebody with a gun in hand attempts to do anything but shoot – e.g., climb, drive, or ride a horse – the GM may rule that a failed DX or skill roll indicates an accidental discharge, a malfunction (p. B407), or even a broken firearm . . . especially if the gunman suffers from Unluckiness or Cursed!
At TL6+, a firearm usually has a manual safety to prevent it from discharging accidentally (see also “Unsafe” Revolvers, p. 93). When using a familiar weapon (see Familiarity, p. B169), engaging or disengaging such a safety is a free action at either the beginning or the end of a turn – but not both. Those operating at their default from DX or another Guns specialty, or who are otherwise unfamiliar with the weapon, must take a Ready maneuver to engage or disengage the safety. Cruel GMs may require an IQ roll to remember to disengage the safety under stressful circumstances!
If the weapon lacks a positive safety, though – or has a reputation as “unsafe” or as liable to start firing if dropped – then an accidental discharge is particularly likely. It may hit the holder of the gun or somebody else (see Hitting the Wrong Target, p. B389), or at least draw attention at a possibly inconvenient time. Note that a weapon may also discharge accidentally if stowed improperly; e.g., tucked into pants (unless you have the Pants-Positive Safety perk, p. 249) or a coat pocket. This can trip the safety (off or on), or even snag the hammer and fire the weapon.
Instead of accidentally discharging, a weapon with a detachable magazine may accidentally eject its magazine. This is a surprisingly common mishap, especially with weapons that have an unprotected magazine release (e.g., the Enfield L85A1, p. 118).
Firearms need proper care, including cleaning and lubrication. Military firearms are normally issued with a cleaning kit (p. 160); many store an oil bottle and a basic cleaning kit in the stock or pistol grip. The rules under Maintenance (p. B485) definitely apply. For small arms and their feed devices, each maintenance check calls for an IQ-based Guns, Armoury (Small Arms), or Soldier roll. For heavy weapons, roll against IQ-based Gunner, Armoury (Heavy Weapons), or Soldier.
Some weapons are more tolerant of neglected maintenance than others, though, and need less-frequent maintenance checks (e.g., the AK-47, p. 114). Generally, the simpler the design, the less maintenance it requires. For instance, a double-barreled shotgun requires less attention than a machine gun.
Harsh environments complicate maintenance. In the desert, many lubricants attract fine dust that can clog the action. This problem can be solved by paying more attention to cleaning; closed holsters and scabbards (pp. 153-154) are also advisable. Extreme heat and cold, vacuum, and some exotic (but non-corrosive) atmospheres require special lubricants that won’t freeze, evaporate, or otherwise be lost or destroyed. Weapons not specifically designed to cope with a particular hostile environment suffer a temporary -1 or worse to Malf.
Abuse makes any weapon less reliable – although firearms vary widely in their ability to cope with it. If using a gun that has spent 40 years abandoned in a closet or been rolled on by a falling horse, or after taking a swim or snatching it from the mud, Slime, Sand, and Equipment Failure (p. B485) applies.
Failure on the required HT roll may lower Malf. (p. B407), decrease Accuracy, or result in another penalty determined by the GM. Light damage might knock the sights out of alignment; heavier damage can crack the gun’s frame, bend the barrel, break the stock, and so on. Stoppages and misfires (see Malfunctions, p. 81) are particularly likely results of abuse.
Sniper rifles and target pistols are a special case. They’re precision instruments with specially selected and fitted barrels and actions, often mated with telescopic sights. Abused, they lose accuracy quickly. Weapons such as the H&K PSG1 (p. 116) and Remington M24 (p. 116) roll against HT rather than the usual HT+4. Failure results in -1 to -3 to Acc (GM’s decision). Note that most weapons of this kind are optimized for a particular owner, too. Picking up somebody else’s target weapon without adjusting stock and sights (requires an hour to shoot and fine-tune the gun) can mean reduced Acc even without abuse.
Make an IQ-based Guns, Gunner, Artillery, or Armoury roll (as appropriate) to detect and correct problems stemming from abuse. Depending on the severity of the abuse, this can mean anything from letting water drip out of the barrel to a two-hour date with the disassembled weapon, lots of solvent, and a toothbrush . . .
For gross physical abuse – such as a deliberate attempt to break the weapon – see Damage to Objects (p. 483). Firearms typically have DR 4, HT 10, and HP as given on the Object Hit Points Table (p. B558). Details may vary depending on quality and materials. However, many military weapons are rugged enough to qualify for DR 6, HT 11. Treat famously rugged weapons (such as the AK-47, p. 114) as ruggedized (p. 16) at no extra cost; they have DR 8, HT 12. All firearms are Unliving.
Firearms don’t improve with age. Old guns may have any number of problems – from cracked stocks and misaligned sights to “tired” recoil springs and actions that are rusted solid. Age reduces Acc and/or Malf., and may even leave the gun unable to fire at all until fixed by a gunsmith with the Armoury skill. The GM can hint at a weapon’s age by mentioning the wire, electrical tape, or spot welds holding it together!
Firearm age isn’t strictly a question of years – it can also mean excessive wear and tear. For example, a machine gun with tens of thousands of rounds through it will become unreliable as parts shake loose. This means increased stoppages or a tendency for components to rattle around during transport or use, decreasing Malf.
Most weapons have a certified barrel life – anything from tens of thousands of rounds for a modern pistol to a few hundred shots for a tank or naval gun. After that, Acc suffers. Penalties as severe as halving Acc would be reasonable.
In automatic guns, another weakness is the springs. Many professionals carry spare springs as part of their guncleaning kit (p. 160) so that they can replace worn ones as necessary. Trading weak factory springs for stronger ones can increase reliability in some weapons (see Firearm Quality, p. 79).
The springs in magazines are another common problem. Many shooters find that underloading their magazines improves reliability. British troops learned this lesson with Sten guns during WWII; U.S. soldiers, with M16s in Vietnam.
When a firearm fails to discharge when the trigger is pulled, the source is most likely operator error or a mechanical malfunction. Both are covered by the optional rules under Malfunctions (p. B407). A malfunction is more likely for an untrained shooter. At the GM’s discretion, anybody shooting at default or who doesn’t meet the weapon’s minimum ST requirement suffers -1 to his weapon’s Malf. For other factors that can worsen Malf., see Cleaning and Maintenance (p. 80), Abuse (p. 80), and Age (p. 80-81).
When a malfunction occurs, roll on the Firearm Malfunction Table (p. B407) to determine what happened. The relative likelihood of misfires and stoppages varies by TL and weapon type:
For TL3-5 firearms, the most likely malfunction is a simple misfire . . . the gun doesn’t go off at all. For early cartridge-firing weapons, another common problem is a stoppage – the cartridge becomes jammed in the chamber (after firing the shot), usually because of weak cartridge material. Prying the cartridge case from the weapon may be difficult.
For TL6-8 firearms, which seldom misfire but often jam, the GM may wish to reverse the occurrence of misfires and stoppages on the table. For automatic weapons, a stoppage usually means a feed jam – the next round in sequence can’t reach the firing chamber (before firing the shot) or the empty case isn’t properly ejected (after firing the shot).
Eventually, every gun suffers a stoppage. A trained gunman knows the steps that offer the best chance of returning his weapon to service. Such a standard “try this first” procedure is called Immediate Action. Basic rules for clearing a stoppage appear under Stoppage (p. B407). Below are some additional, optional details.
The basic -4 to the Armoury or IQ-based weapon skill roll always applies unless “bought off” with the Immediate Action technique (p. 251). However, Immediate Action is different for every firearm – any penalties to shoot the weapon that the gunman would have for tech level (p. B168), unfamiliarity (p. B169), and/or a default between Guns specialties (p. B199) apply to his Immediate Action roll as well. Weapon Bond (p. 250) gives its usual +1.
The time required for Immediate Action also differs between weapons. Three Ready maneuvers is an average. Immediate Action for a particular weapon may take more or less time.
For a magazine-fed automatic weapon (include a semiautomatic pistol, SMG, or assault rifle), the most likely fault is failure to feed from the magazine. Immediate Action is to tap the base of the magazine to confirm that it’s seated, clear the chamber, and let the slide or bolt fly home to chamber another round. This takes two Ready maneuvers.
For a belt-fed automatic weapon, Immediate Action is to cock the weapon, open the feed cover, clear the feed tray of any links or expended cartridges, reinsert the belt, close the cover, and rack the bolt. This takes four Ready maneuvers. An assistant gunner can reduce this to three Ready maneuvers.
Revolver malfunctions are almost always misfires. Don’t take Immediate Action – simply pull the trigger again! Similarly, a shooter with a multi-barrel gun can try to fire another barrel.
It normally takes one or more Ready maneuvers to draw a firearm; see Ready (p. B366) and Readying Weapons and Other Gear (p. B382). The time required depends on how the weapon is stowed – see Holsters, Scabbards, and Slings (pp. 153-154). An alternative popular with pistoleros is the Fast-Draw skill (p. B194). Below are several optional rules for Fast-Draw.
A successful Fast-Draw roll lets you ready a stowed weapon instantly, without taking a Ready maneuver. Every turn, you may Fast-Draw one gun per hand at no penalty – although draws with the “off” hand have the usual -4. For instance, a shootist could Fast-Draw a pistol with his master hand at no penalty and another pistol with his off hand at -4. Success and failure have their usual effects in all cases. Any failure ends your turn; you may not attempt Fast-Draw again that turn. Critical failure means you also drop the gun – or both weapons, if trying to draw two guns simultaneously!
The Fast-Draw skill assumes that you’re standing still with nobody holding onto you, able to use your master hand to reach your weapon. In close combat and other cramped quarters, you must make a DX roll to reach a weapon before you can Fast-Draw it (see Readying in Close Combat, p. B391). For added realism, apply the following modifiers to Fast-Draw rolls and DX rolls to reach weapons:
Crawling or lying down: -4
Crouching, kneeling, or sitting: -2
Grappled: -4
Hanging upside down: -2
Move or Move and Attack: -2 during or after the maneuver
Off-hand: -4
The weapon’s location is another important modifier, the effects of which depend on the weapon and Fast-Draw specialty:
Long Arm: +0 if using a patrol sling (p. 154), -2 if slung over the shoulder, or -4 if slung on the back.
Pistol: +0 if tucked into the belt or holstered at your hip, -1 if holstered at the small of your back or in a shoulder holster, -2* if holstered in an ankle holster or stuck into a boot, or -3 if in a pocket or concealed.
* A weapon in a boot is easier to reach from low postures: when crouching, kneeling, or sitting, ignore the -2 for a weapon in a boot and the -2 for posture, and roll at +0. All of these modifiers are cumulative with each other and those under Fast-Draw (above). Shock, distraction, and afflictions have the same effect on Fast-Draw rolls and DX rolls to reach weapons as they do on attack rolls. Note that the type of holster, scabbard, or sling also affects how quickly you can draw a gun; see Holsters, Scabbards, and Slings (pp. 153-154).
A staple of cinematic gunfights and duels is the standoff between two gunmen who suddenly draw weapons and fire. Who draws first – and therefore gets the first shot – is crucial here!
If combat is in progress, resolve the situation using the turn sequence (see p. B363). The faster gunman takes his turn first. If his weapon is ready, or if he can Fast-Draw it, he gets the first shot. If he must take a Ready maneuver, his turn ends. Then the slower gunfighter takes his turn. If he has a weapon ready – or can Fast-Draw one – he gets the first shot. If he, too, must take a Ready maneuver, it’s the faster fighter’s turn again . . .
If combat isn’t in progress, use the following rules:
• Neither fighter has a ready weapon; one knows Fast- Draw, the other does not. The shootist with Fast-Draw may roll against his skill. If he succeeds, he shoots first. If he fails, resolve this as a standoff between two fighters, neither of whom knows Fast-Draw (below). If he critically fails, he drops his weapon or shoots himself, and his foe fires first!
• Neither fighter has a ready weapon; both or neither know Fast-Draw. Roll a Quick Contest. Use Fast-Draw skill if both gunmen have it, weapon skill if neither does (or if one does, but failed his attempt). The winner fires first. In a tie, they shoot simultaneously! Regardless of the skill used, apply the modifiers under Fast-Draw from Odd Positions, plus these special modifiers:
Bulk: The shootist with the worst Bulk has -1 (his weapon takes longer to clear its holster or move from its slung position).
Hand on Weapon: A shooter with a hand already on his gun adds +4. Both fighters can claim this bonus.
• One fighter has a ready weapon; his opponent knows Fast-Draw. Roll a Quick Contest. The ready shootist uses weapon skill; his only modifier is +1 if he has Combat Reflexes. The unready gunman uses Fast-Draw skill modified as for a Quick Contest of Fast-Draw (above), with an additional -10! The winner shoots first. In a tie, the shooter with the ready weapon fires first.
• One fighter has a ready weapon; his opponent lacks Fast-Draw skill. The gunfighter with the ready weapon shoots first.
Firearms can be classified by trigger mechanism as follows:
Single-action (SA) means that the hammer needs to be cocked before shooting. In the case of a revolver, the hammer must be cocked before each shot; therefore, single-action revolvers have RoF 1. In the case of a self-loading weapon – such as a semiautomatic pistol or rifle – the action cocks itself automatically after the first shot and the shooter can fire at RoF 3 on later turns. SA is standard on most TL5 revolvers and TL6 semiautomatic pistols, as well as on rifles, submachine guns, and machine guns at all TLs.
Double-action (DA) means that the weapon doesn’t have to be cocked before firing, always allowing RoF 3. Due to the heavy trigger pull, though, aimed shots in DA mode suffer -1 Acc. The weapon can be cocked before firing, allowing a more accurate first shot in SA mode.
Double-action-only (DAO) means that the firearm cannot be fired single-action – only double-action, at RoF 3. This permanently reduces Acc. Due to the unavoidable heavy trigger pull, accidental discharge due to unsafe handling (p. 80) is almost impossible, which makes DAO popular with police forces. Safe-action combines the best features of SA and DAO. Such guns have RoF 3, receive no penalty on aimed shots, and are almost impossible to discharge accidentally.
Resolve attacks with firearms as explained in Ranged Attacks (pp. B372-374). See Special Ranged Combat Rules (pp. B407-414) for situations unique to guns and gunfights. The following rules add further optional detail.
A full-automatic weapon with a fire selector – that is, a RoF 4+ weapon without a “!” after its RoF – can be set to fire either single shots or full-automatic (see p. B408). Changing modes normally takes a Ready maneuver. Certain firearms can switch instantly, however, thanks to a double trigger (e.g., Rheinmetall MG34) or a progressive trigger where a light pull gives single shots and a heavy pull gives bursts (e.g., Steyr AUG). This is mentioned in the descriptions of such weapons.
Some weapons have a burst limiter, mainly to conserve ammo. The bursts are mechanically or electrically controlled, and consist of a fixed number of rounds – typically two, three, or four, depending on the gun. After that, the weapon stops firing, even if the trigger is still depressed. The shooter must squeeze the trigger again for another burst, and may fire up to three bursts per attack. Fast-firing (p. 84) isn’t possible. The only game effects are that the number of shots per attack must be a multiple of the limited burst size and that such firearms can’t use Spraying Fire (p. B409).
Example: The Beretta Mod 93R machine pistol (p. 100) can be set to fire three-round limited bursts. The shooter may choose between three, six, or nine shots per attack, so the weapon has RoF 9. He can’t use Spraying Fire, despite having RoF 5+.
Some guns with very high rates of fire (25-35 shots per second) can fire short bursts so quickly that the bullets exit the barrel before recoil and muzzle climb affect the shooter. This is called a “high-cyclic controlled burst.” Such weapons have a number sign (#) after RoF.
Guns firing high-cyclic controlled bursts are subject to Limited Bursts (above). In addition, they can’t use Suppression Fire (p. B409). However, shots fired in controlled-burst mode have effective Rcl 1. If the gun has selective fire, then in addition to firing at its controlled-burst RoF, it might be able to switch to its normal RoF and/or semiautomatic fire at RoF 3. Details appear in individual weapon descriptions.
Example: The H&K G11 assault rifle (p. 119) has RoF 9# when set on controlled bursts. Per its description, it fires three-round bursts; the shooter can fire three, six, or nine shots per attack in this mode. If he fires three bursts – nine shots – he gets +2 to his attack roll for rapid fire. Due to Rcl 1 in controlled-burst mode, success by 0 gives one hit, success by 1 gives two, success by 2 gives three, and so on. On a success by 8, all nine shots hit! If he selects normal full-auto mode, RoF 7, he can fire any number of shots between two and seven, and use Suppression Fire, but at the weapon’s usual Rcl 2.
Fanning and thumbing are flamboyant techniques used to increase the low RoF of single-action revolvers (p. 92). Both tricks are more typical of modern cowboy enthusiasts and movie heroes than of historical gunslingers.
To fan a revolver, the shooter holds down the trigger while striking the hammer repeatedly with his other hand, quickly cocking and releasing it to fire the weapon. Fanning requires an attack roll at Guns (Pistol)-4, and can’t be combined with aiming. The Fanning technique (p. 251) can “buy off” the -4 to skill; without it, most shooters manage little more than a lot of noise and possibly a bruised hand.
At the basic -4 to skill, fanning improves RoF to 2. A shooter can increase RoF to as high as 5, but each +1 to RoF gives another -2 to skill that can’t be bought off. At RoF 5, Rcl increases by 2 as well (this problem can’t be bought off, either).
Example: The Duke has no penalty to fire his Colt Peacemaker (p. 252) at its usual RoF 1. When fanning, RoF 2 gives him -4, RoF 3 gives -6, and RoF 4 gives -8, all at Rcl 3; RoF 5 gives -10 and Rcl 5! If he invested 5 points in the Fanning technique, he could fire at RoF 2 with no penalty, RoF 3 at -2, RoF 4 at - 4, or RoF 5 at -6 (still at Rcl 5).
A critical failure means no shots are fired. As well, roll 1d. On 1-3, the shooter drops his gun. On 4-6, he bruises his hand; the margin of failure on the roll equals the number of minutes that he suffers moderate pain (p. B428).
Thumbing (or “slipping the hammer”) is a one-handed technique. The gunman holds down the revolver’s trigger as for fanning. He uses his thumb to pull the hammer back to full cock and then releases it to fire. A skilled shootist can fire two single-action revolvers at once this way! Thumbing requires an attack roll at Guns (Pistol)-2. The Thumbing technique (p. 252) can “buy off” the -2. Success lets the shooter fire at RoF 2. Failure means he can’t fire that turn. On a critical failure, he drops his gun or fires it prematurely, the shot going off wildly – the GM decides what it hits.
A revolver can be temporarily modified for fanning or thumbing by tying back the trigger; it can only be used for fanning or thumbing until the tie is removed. A revolver can be permanently modified by removing the trigger. Make an Armoury (Small Arms) roll to remove the trigger. Anyone can tie it back.
The RoF 3 listed for most semiautomatic weapons and double-action revolvers assumes that the shooter will fire no more than three times a second. In practice, one can pull the trigger up to twice as fast . . . often to the detriment of actually scoring a hit. Pulling the trigger quickly can increase RoF to as high as 6 – at -4 to Guns. Learn the Fast- Firing technique (p. 251) to “buy off” this penalty. Increase Rcl by 2 at RoF 5 and by 4 at RoF 6. Even with RoF 5+, you can’t use Spraying Fire (p. B409) with a weapon that isn’t in fact a full-automatic weapon, but you can use Suppression Fire (p. B409).
Example: Morton Locke can fire his Colt .38 Super (pp. 98-99) at RoF 3 with Rcl 3. Fast-firing, he could choose RoF 4 at -4 to skill and Rcl 3, RoF 5 at -4 and Rcl 5, or RoF 6 at -4 and Rcl 7. If he invested 5 points in the Fast-Firing technique, he could shoot with no skill penalty at RoF 4-6, but he’d still suffer extra Rcl at RoF 5-6.
Single-action revolvers with RoF 1 can be fired twohanded at RoF 2 at no penalty (see Pistolero, see left). Fastfiring can further increase this to as high as RoF 4, at -2 to Guns. The Two-Handed Thumbing technique (p. 252) lets one “buy off” this penalty.
Traditionally, pistols were held and fired using one hand. This was the case long after it was no longer common to use the other hand to grip a sword or a horse’s reins. The Basic Set assumes onehanded shooting as standard – because for most of history, it was!
In the late 1950s, American competition shooter Jack Weaver developed the stable, two-handed shooting style that would eventually be known as the “Weaver Stance.” There are other, similar stances. Initially, two-handed shooting was adopted by only a few. By the 1980s, though, it had become the dominant style for combat handgunners – including military and police.
Two-handed pistol shooting has several advantages. Multiply minimum ST by 0.8 (round up), reduce Bulk by one step, and treat all aimed shots as braced (see Aim, p. B364). This stance isn’t compatible with fanning and thumbing (p. 83), though.
There’s another advantage to firing single-action revolvers two-handed: the shooter can use the thumb of his off hand to cock the hammer. This increases RoF to 2. It isn’t compatible with thumbing or fanning, but allows fast-firing (see below). Historically, this practice wasn’t widespread, but an Old West shootist could develop it. It’s common among modern single-action shooters.
A sniper with specialized gear and plenty of time can make a very accurate shot by correcting his aim for every possible factor and waiting for the perfect moment to shoot. At the GM’s option, a marksman with suitable equipment (at minimum, a place to brace, a scope, ballistic tables matched to rifle and ammunition, and a wind gauge), acting alone or with a trained spotter (Observation at 12+) equipped with binoculars or a spotting scope (p. 47), can exceed the usual limits on Aim (p. B364).
The first second of Aim gives +Accuracy and the next two seconds give another +1 or +2, as usual. Time above and beyond the initial three seconds gives a further bonus according to Time Spent (p. B346): +1 for 2x as long (6 seconds), +2 for 4x as long (12 seconds), +3 for 8x as long (24 seconds), +4 for 15x as long (45 seconds), and +5 for 30x as long (90 seconds). An extra +5 is the maximum – but in practice this bonus can’t exceed the lower of the bonus from targeting systems (scopes, sights, etc.) and the weapon’s basic Accuracy.
The extra time is used to make fine adjustments that are difficult without special training. Each additional +1 claimed requires an IQ-based Guns roll at -6. A sniper would have to roll five times – at 6, 12, 24, 45, and 90 seconds – to claim an extra +5. The GM may penalize these rolls in adverse conditions (wind, rain, dust, bad terrain, etc.) or give bonuses under ideal circumstances (dead calm, familiar location, etc.). The Precision Aiming technique (p. 251) can “buy off” the basic -6.
Success increases the bonus; the sniper may then shoot or keep aiming. Failure on any roll means all aiming bonuses are lost – the shooter must start over. Critical failure means the target sees a protruding barrel or glint off the scope!
Example: Red Army sniper Svetlana Romanova has Guns (Rifle)-14 and Precision Aiming (Rifle)-15. She’s using a Mosin-Nagant V-1891/30 sniper rifle (p. 111) with Acc 5 and a scope giving +2 Acc. It’s braced on a window sill for another +1. Her target is motorcycle scout Hugo Elting, talking animatedly to a Panzer crew 300 yards away.
After three seconds of Aim, Svetlana has +10 to hit: +5 basic Acc, +2 for the scope, +1 for bracing, and +2 for two extra seconds of Aim. She doesn’t want to miss, so she keeps aiming. After six seconds of Aim, she must roll against her Precision Aiming technique. She succeeds and gets another +1, for +11 to skill. After 12 seconds of Aim, she succeeds again and the extra bonus becomes +2, for a total +12. She can’t go any higher – her limit is the lower of the scope bonus (+2) and Acc bonus (+5).
She squeezes the trigger and makes an All-Out Attack (Determined), for +1, to the vitals, for -3. With the +12 for Aim and -13 for range, Svetlana needs an 11 or less to hit. She rolls a 10 and the German drops.
Rapid Strike (p. B370) is normally restricted to melee attacks, but the GM may optionally allow anyone using a firearm with RoF 2+ to perform a “Ranged Rapid Strike” at the usual -6 to skill. To buy off the -6, learn the Quick-Shot technique (p. 252). The two attacks can engage different targets, subject to the target restrictions in the first paragraph of Spraying Fire (p. B409). Ranged Rapid Strike and Dual-Weapon Attack (p. B417) cannot be combined.
Certain environments pose special challenges to shooters.
Firing an ordinary TL6-8 firearm underwater isn’t impossible – it’s just extremely inefficient. Even a high-powered rifle gets only a few feet of range! Multiply the underwater distance to the target by 1,000 to check if it’s in range.
As well, reduce Malf. by 1 for all weapons and by 2 for automatic weapons (including self-loading pistols). Only cased ammunition with sealed primers is reliable; caseless ammo might work shortly after immersion, but will eventually fail. Hollow-point ammo can’t be used – it expands prematurely, either damaging the gun or reducing effective range to nil.
Shooting at an underwater target is difficult – as may be seeing the target in the first place. The projectile will be deflected considerably at some entry angles. All shots going into the water are at -4 to hit. As well, the water slows down the round, with the same effects on range as shooting underwater (above).
Example: Special Agent Lou Lafayette is standing on a Coast Guard vessel and shooting his H&K MP5/10A3 submachine gun (p. 123), at -4 to skill, at a tentacled monstrosity swimming 4’ below the surface. That 4’ of water counts as 4’ x 1,000 = 4,000’, or 1,333 yards. This is past his weapon’s 1/2D; if the bullets hit, they’ll do half damage. Worse, Lou has only FBI-issue HP rounds, which instantly deform on impact with the water. This means no effective hits! He might have a chance if he had solid bullets, but the creature would only need to dive to 10’ – increasing effective distance to 10’ x 1,000 = 10,000’, or 3,333 yards – to be outside the gun’s Max of 3,100.
Firing any firearm (including small arms and specialized antiaircraft artillery) into the air at an elevation of 50°-90° reduces its range to 80% normal.
Example: A gargoyle flying at an altitude of 5,000’ is well out of range of Lafayette’s Glock 23 (p. 101). The pistol’s Max is reduce to 1,800 x 0.8 = 1,440 yards, or 4,320’.
In space, vacuum (p. B437) evaporates lubricants while temperature extremes affect a firearm’s internal mechanisms. All automatic TL6-8 firearms have Malf. 14 when fired in space. This doesn’t apply to revolvers or manual repeaters.
The Guns skill covers using a firearm in a life-threatening situation. This usually but doesn’t necessarily mean combat. A hunter pursuing dangerous game is, by definition, in danger.
Many people only shoot in safe situations, though – “plinking” on cans in the backyard, shooting at paper targets on the firing range, or competing in marksmanship contests. Such activities typically take place in comfortable, well-lit settings where there’s plenty of time to aim and the distance to the targets is well-known. Those making long shots at an outdoor range have a windsock to help adjust aim, a hunter shooting from his favorite deer stand knows when and where his prey will likely appear, and so on.
Conditions like this are much more favorable than those encountered in combat, and should provide skill bonuses as outlined under Task Difficulty (p. B345). The bonus for a typical non-combat situation is +4. The GM may grant up to +10 when firing from a rest at a brightly colored soda can on a calm, sunny day.
Note also that All-Out Attack (Determined) (p. B365) grants +1 to skill. This is common in most of the above situations. Target shooters are rarely prepared to dodge!
Firing many shots in a short period rapidly heats up any firearm, even a manual repeater. The faster the rate and the more powerful the round, the quicker the heat builds up. This may temporarily or even permanently damage the weapon. Red-hot barrels warp, reducing Acc. An overheated gun is also more likely to jam or “cook off” (fire a chambered round due to heat alone).
For pistols, rifles, SMGs, and shotguns, reduce Acc and Malf. by 1 after firing 100 rounds in under a minute. Reduce this to 50 rounds for weapons noted on the table as “unreliable” or “very unreliable”; raise it to 150 rounds if the gun is fine (reliable) or noted as “very reliable,” or to 200 rounds if very fine (reliable). Multiply these numbers by 0.75 for a TL6 weapon or by 1.5 for TL8 hardware, and by 1.25 for a well-maintained weapon and feed device at any TL (see Cleaning and Maintenance, p. 80). Letting the weapon cool for at least 15 minutes returns it to normal – but after firing three or more times the safe number of rounds, Acc loss (but not Malf. reduction) becomes permanent.
Machine guns and autocannon – with heavier barrels and better cooling arrangements – have a higher safe number of rounds per minute, rated in three fire modes:
Sustained: Bursts of less than RoF in length, with pauses of 4-5 seconds; overheats after 800 shots.
Rapid: Bursts of less than RoF in length, with pauses of 2-3 seconds; overheats after 400 shots.
Assault: Long bursts or bursts of less than RoF in length, with no pauses (as in typical action-movie scenes); overheats after 200 shots.
Multiply these safe numbers by 0.5 for a light barrel or by 1.5 for an extra-heavy barrel (see weapon description); by 0.75 for a TL6 weapon or by 1.5 for a TL8 one; and by 1.25 for a well-maintained weapon and feed device. Firing three times the final safe number reduces Acc and Malf. by 2, making even a burst barrel likely! Changing the barrel (see Machine Guns and Autocannon, pp. 129-137) is often preferable to a long cooling period. Water-cooled guns can fire until the water is gone (see Water-Cooled Machine Guns, p. 129), after which they follow the rules above.
Example: A Saco M60 (p. 134) is TL7 – and for this example, well-maintained. In sustained mode, it can safely fire 800 x 1.25 = 1,000 shots before a barrel change or longer cooling period. In assault mode, this drops to 200 x 1.25 = 250 rounds.
If a foe confronts you while your pistol is empty, or you want to take him on without shooting, you can always pistol whip ’em! For most handguns, make a Brawling or DX roll to hit. Damage is thrust-1 crushing, plus the absolute value of Bulk; e.g., a Colt Government pistol (pp. 98-99) with Bulk -2 does thr+1 cr. Pistols designed for braining enemies – including many large, single-shot cavalry and naval pistols at TL4-5 – use the Axe/Mace skill and inflict swing+1 crushing damage.
Most revolvers prior to the 1880s have a fixed firing pin and no internal or external safety. Uncocked, the hammer is in contact with the cartridge base. Any sharp blow on the hammer may fire it! The only safe way to carry such a revolver loaded is with the hammer resting on an empty chamber. Carrying it with all chambers loaded is inviting accidental discharge (see Handling, p. 80). Old West gunfighters supposedly kept a few greenbacks in the empty chamber – “burying money” for the gunslinger who slipped up once too often. Treat all TL5 revolvers on the Revolvers Table (p. 94) as “unsafe,” except where noted.
A firearm other than a single-use throwaway weapon needs to be reloaded after firing all of its shots. Depending on ammunition class (pp. 163-165) and weapon design, this can take some time.
Loading multi-part ammo – powder, shot, and wadding – is a rather involved process. Briefly, you must pour in the propellant, usually from the muzzle; then insert and ram down the projectile, followed by the wadding; and finally fit the igniter to the action. The number of Ready maneuvers (seconds) required varies by weapon type, but some general rules apply:
• A self-measuring powder flask (see Powder and Shot, p. 163) subtracts five seconds from the final loose-ammunition loading time.
• A self-priming pan (see weapon description) subtracts 10 seconds, but this benefit isn’t cumulative with that of a self-measuring flask.
• Paper cartridges halve the basic time required (round up), and supersede both of the above measures.
• Loading a muzzleloading shoulder arm – not a pistol – while in any posture other than standing multiplies the basic time required by 1.5 (round up). Loading while mounted requires a roll against the lower of Guns-3 and Riding-3; loading on a moving vehicle requires a Guns-2 roll.
Muzzleloading musket or shotgun with flintlock or caplock action. Takes 40 seconds. A successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this to 30. A double-barreled weapon doubles the time required.
Muzzleloading rifle with flintlock or caplock action. Takes 60 seconds. Fast-Draw (Ammo) reduces this to 50. Multiply by 0.7 (round up) if using a greased patch (p. 107). A double-barreled weapon doubles the time required. Treat a rifle as a musket when firing Minié balls (p. 109).
Example: Reloading a Kentucky rifle (p. 107) takes 60 seconds, or 50 with a successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll. A greased patch – used by most American shooters – reduces these times to 42 and 35 seconds, respectively. With a selfmeasuring powder flask, reduce all of these times by five seconds, to 55, 45, 37, and 30 seconds, respectively.
Muzzleloading smoothbore pistol with flintlock or caplock action. Takes 20 seconds. Fast-Draw (Ammo) reduces this to 16.
Muzzleloading rifled pistol with flintlock or caplock action. Takes 30 seconds. Fast-Draw (Ammo) reduces this to 24.
Muzzleloading smoothbore revolver with flintlock or caplock action. Takes 20 seconds per chamber. Fast-Draw (Ammo) reduces this to 16 per chamber.
Muzzleloading rifled revolver with flintlock or caplock action. Takes 30 seconds per chamber. Fast-Draw (Ammo) reduces this to 24 per chamber.
Breechloading musket, shotgun, or rifle with flintlock or caplock action. Takes 10 seconds, regardless of position. Fast-Draw (Ammo) reduces this to 8.
Taking the time to load carefully has a marked effect on the accuracy of muzzleloaders. Smoothbores in particular are more accurate when firing a well-fitted, tightly patched ball from a clean barrel. A perfectly smooth ram of the load and/or an exactly measured quantity of priming can affect the likelihood of the gun firing and scoring a hit. One reason that TL5 military commanders like to save the first volley for as long as possible is that it’s the one that’s most carefully loaded. In game terms, doubling the loading time for a muzzleloading musket or rifle gives +1 Acc.
Black powder produces considerable fouling, as unburned solid waste builds up. A gun’s barrel must be swabbed out after every shot to remove as much fouling as possible. Any kind of watery liquid, including urine, will do. Saliva works well – shooters commonly hold a patch in their mouth until it’s saturated. All listed loading times include this hasty bare minimum of swabbing.
In a long fight, carbon and lead buildup can have immediate adverse effects on accuracy, loading speed, and reliability. After every five shots, the firer must take a two-minute break to clean his gun thoroughly. For every five shots without cleaning, increase basic loading time by 10% (round up) and reduce Malf. by one step. For every 10 shots without cleaning, lower Acc by 1, too.
Battlefield swabbing can’t remove all of the fouling. Cleaning and oiling the gun is a necessary after-battle chore. Black powder is corrosive and attracts moisture. A few hours in a damp climate can ruin an uncleaned weapon.
Fixed ammo – from the earliest metal cartridges to caseless rounds – is easier to handle and thus faster to load. Loading while mounted still requires a skill roll, but it’s against the lower of Guns-1 and Riding-1.
Single- or multi-barreled breechloader. It takes one Ready maneuver to open the breech, one to remove the spent cartridge, one to retrieve a fresh cartridge, one to insert it, and one to close the breech. A successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this time from five seconds to four. A multibarreled weapon adds three seconds per extra barrel; Fast- Draw reduces this to two seconds per extra barrel. Single- or multi-barreled breechloader with ejector. It takes one Ready maneuver to open the breech (automatically ejecting the case), one to retrieve a fresh cartridge, one to insert it, and one to close the breech. A successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this time from four seconds to three. A multi-barreled weapon adds two seconds per extra barrel; Fast-Draw reduces this to one second per extra barrel.
Examples: Reloading a double-barreled breechloading shotgun with no ejector, like the Remington Hammer Lifter (p. 104), takes eight Ready maneuvers, six with Fast-Draw, or four with Double-Loading (p. 251). A gun with an ejector, like the LeFever Automatic Hammerless (pp. 104-105), takes only six Ready maneuvers, four with Fast-Draw, or three with Double-Loading.
Gate-loading revolver. It takes one Ready maneuver to open the loading gate, one to push each empty case through the gate using an ejector rod (weapons without an ejector rod require at least two seconds per case), one to retrieve each new cartridge, one to insert each round, and one to close the gate. A successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this time by a second per cartridge.
Example: Reloading a six-shooter with loading gate, like the Colt Peacemaker (p. 95), takes 20 seconds, or 14 with Fast-Draw.
Break-open revolver with ejector. It takes one Ready maneuver to open the breech (automatically ejecting all cases), one to retrieve each new cartridge, one to insert each round, and one to close the gun. A successful Fast- Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this time by a second per cartridge. Using a speedloader (p. 155) shortens the procedure to five Ready maneuvers: one to open the gun, one to retrieve the speedloader, one to insert the cartridges, one to release them, and one to close the gun. Fast-Draw (Ammo) cuts this time to just three seconds.
Swing-out revolver. It takes one Ready maneuver to swing out the cylinder, one to manually eject all the cases at once, one to retrieve each new cartridge, one to insert each round, and one to close the cylinder. A successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this time by a second per cartridge. Using a speedloader (p. 155) simplifies the procedure to six Ready maneuvers: one to swing out the cylinder, one to eject the cases, one to retrieve the speedloader, one to insert the cartridges, one to release them, and one to close the gun. Fast-Draw (Ammo) cuts this time to four seconds.
Example: Reloading a modern revolver with swing-out cylinder, like the S&W Model 10 (pp. 95-96), takes 15 seconds, nine with Fast-Draw, or six with Double-Loading (p. 251). Employing a speedloader reduces this to six Ready maneuvers, or four with Fast-Draw – but Double-Loading doesn’t help.
Internal magazine. For weapons with loading gates – like many shotguns and lever-action rifles – it takes one Ready maneuver to retrieve each cartridge and one to insert it. A successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this time by a second for every three cartridges or fraction thereof.
Example: Reloading a Remington Model 870 (pp. 105- 106) takes 10 seconds, or eight with Fast-Draw.
Other weapons with internal magazines – like cliploaded pistols and all bolt-action rifles – require the user to open the action, retrieve and insert ammunition (either individual rounds or a charger clip), and then close the action. Opening and closing the action takes one Ready maneuver. Retrieving and inserting ammo takes two Ready maneuvers per cartridge or clip, or one per cartridge or clip with a successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll. Some weapons (like the Enfield SMLE Mk III, p. 112) use several clips.
Examples: Reloading a Winchester Model 70 bolt-action rifle (p. 113) with loose cartridges takes 11 seconds, or six with Fast-Draw. Reloading a Mauser Kar98k bolt-action rifle (p. 111) with a charger clip takes three Ready maneuvers, or two with Fast-Draw.
Detachable magazine. It takes one Ready maneuver to eject the empty magazine, one to retrieve a fresh one, and one to insert it. Clamped magazines (p. 155) or a successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll reduces this time from three seconds to two – as does an assistant gunner for a machine gun. Bulky drums or inconveniently placed magazines require five seconds, as they take longer to handle and/or insert; Fast-Draw (Ammo) or an assistant gunner speeds this to three seconds.
Belt or strip feed. It takes one Ready maneuver to open the feed, one to retrieve the new belt or strip, two to insert it, and one to close the feed. A successful Fast-Draw (Ammo) roll or an assistant gunner reduces this time to three seconds.
Automatic firearms (both semi- and full-automatic) are categorized as firing from either a closed- or an open-bolt position. Closed-bolt weapons already have a round chambered when the trigger is pulled; open-bolt weapons must feed a round first. Closed-bolt weapons use the “Shots n+1” notation, which means that they can carry one extra round directly in the chamber. Open-bolt weapons use “Shots n”; they can’t load an additional round. All other effects – on reliability, accuracy, rate of fire, cost, etc. – are already included in the weapon statistics and need no further consideration.
Gunshots are loud, especially indoors. After a firefight, everybody will be temporarily hard of hearing from the noise (if explosions were involved, see also Side Effects of Explosions, p. 181-182). Apply -4 to Hearing rolls if all of the shooting was outdoors, -5 if inside a building or vehicle. Protected Hearing prevents these penalties; see Ear Protection (p. 70).
At night, brilliantly intense muzzle flashes, tracers, and so on will impair natural night vision. This gives an additional -2 to Vision rolls in the dark. Protected Vision prevents this effect; see Eye Protection (pp. 70-71).
In either case, impairment lasts for (20 - HT) minutes, minimum one minute. After that, roll vs. HT every second to recover.
Guns that use compressed air to propel a projectile technically aren’t “firearms” at all, but don’t significantly differ from them in rules terms. The first examples are hand-built custom models dating to the early 17th century (mid-TL4). Mass-produced hunting and military air rifles appear at TL5.
For most of TL5, the limitations of loose powder and shot mean that it’s easier to build a repeating air gun than a blackpowder repeater – despite the fact that air reservoirs are unreliable and successive shots are at progressively lower velocities owing to loss of pressure. At late TL5, the metalliccartridge repeater usurps the air gun’s unique status as a multi-shot weapon impervious to humidity and rain. Air guns retain the advantages of flashless and comparatively quiet firing, however.
At TL5, air guns are expensive and thus used only by the wealthy or those in need of their operational advantages. After 1850, they’re available in commercial centers such as Berlin, Paris, London, and New York for about the same price as black-powder guns. Custom builders can still make a better product, but charge exorbitantly. At TL6-8, the air gun is mostly a toy or a hobby item, for children or for target shooters, but the technology is also used for specialized weapons.
Developed by Bartholomeo Girandoni, this was the only Windbüchse (“air rifle”) ever to be a standard military weapon. Some 1,500 were made. First issued to selected Austrian army snipers, an entire corps was armed with it in 1790. It saw service against Turkey (though not against Napoleon’s troops, as often claimed), but the weapon was decommissioned in 1806. The basic design was copied for hunting arms during the early 19th century. Recent research suggests that the air gun carried by the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804-1806) was a Girandoni pattern.
The weapon resembles a flintlock rifle, but the shoulder stock consists of the detachable air reservoir: a leathercovered iron flask, filled using a hand pump (2,000 strokes, taking about 30 minutes!), that holds enough air for 30 shots. The first 10 shots have the damage and range in the table; the next 10, Dmg 1d+2 pi+, Range 50/400; and the last 10, Dmg 1d+1 pi+, Range 40/340. Bullets are stored in a tube magazine parallel to the barrel, on the gun’s right-hand side. Pushing the breechblock across and cocking the “hammer” loads a bullet from the magazine and makes the gun ready to fire. The weapon is relatively fragile and suffers under field conditions (Malf. 16).
Each man was issued three 3-lb. flasks (extras cost $500 apiece – they’re one of the hardest parts to make) and four 0.6-lb. tubes holding 20 bullets. Exchanging the reservoir takes 15 seconds. Topping up the magazine from a tube takes five seconds.
Perhaps the most famous air gun ever, this was a smoothbore children’s toy modeled after an Old West lever-action carbine and named after a comic-strip cowboy. Over 6.5 million were made. Since 1972, Daisy has introduced very similar but updated models.
The Number 111 holds 1,000 small steel pellets in the tube below the barrel. Cocking the lever compresses a spring and loads a bullet. When the trigger is pulled, the spring compresses the air behind the bullet and forces it down the barrel. Don’t shoot your eye out!
Based on smoothbore marking guns used since 1970, the SplatMaster was the first dedicated paintball game pistol, popular during the paintball craze of the late 1980s and early 1990s. It’s powered by a 12g CO2 cartridge ($1, 0.1 lb.) in the pistol grip, containing 30 charges. Paintballs are loaded into the tube magazine above the barrel using a 10-round speedloading tube. The gun must be manually cocked after each shot. The paintballs – usually filled with red paint – leave a 3”- diameter splat on impact.
A bullpup, smoothbore air gun firing darts for animal control, employed by wildlife conservationists and zoo vets around the world. It features a 4x scope. It’s powered by a 72g CO2 cartridge ($20, 0.25 lb.) under the barrel, containing 40 charges.
The 11mm dart consists of a feather-finned, 0.05-fl. oz. syringe fitted with a sturdy 2mm needle intended to puncture the skin of large animals such as lions or elephants. It can inject one to six doses of liquid anesthetic; roll against Veterinary (or Physician if used against humans, xenomorphs, etc.) to determine the correct dosage. A typical drug requires a HT-3 roll. For each point by which the target fails, he loses 1d FP – although the drug may need from a few seconds to several minutes to take full effect. The victim recovers 1 FP every 10 minutes, as usual. A tracking device is also available (p. 210).
This smoothbore air gun was developed for use by security and military forces in antiriot situations. Both European and U.S. police forces adopted it. It attaches under the barrel of an assault rifle, but can be fitted with a shoulder stock for use as a standalone weapon (Wt. 5.1, Bulk -4).
The FN 303 is powered by a 72g CO2 cartridge ($20, 0.25 lb.) mounted parallel to the barrel, containing 110 charges. A detachable 15-round drum magazine holds the projectiles. Options include baton (in the table), paintballs containing washable or permanent paint (Dmg 1d-3(0.2) cr, leaves a 3”- diameter stain), and a pepper projectile (acts as a paintball and treats the target to a dose of pepper spray, p. 180).
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. Note that air guns with no real combat application use Guns Sport skills.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes
8 Dan-Inject JM Standard, 11mm 1d pi- 3+2 45/150 6.6/0.02 1 1(3i) 8† -5 2 $1,950 4 [1] follow-up drug effect
8 FN 303, .68 FN 1d-3(0.5) cr 3 25/110 4.5/0.5 3 15(5) 7† – 2 $1,100/$21 2 [2]
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes
5 Steyr-Girandoni M.1780, 11.75mm 2d pi+ 1 60/480 9.6/0.4 1 21+1(2i) 10† -6 2 $1,000 3 [3]
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes
7 Daisy Number 111 Red Ryder, .175 BB 1d-4 pi- 0 25/140 3/0.8 1 1,000(2i) 5† -4 1 $50 4
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes
8 NSG SplatMaster, .68 Paintball 1d-3(0.2) cr 1 2/30 2.1/0.07 1 10+1(5) 8 -2 2 $140 4 [3] follow-up paint splat
Notes:
[1] Air charge lasts for 40 shots.
[2] Air charge lasts for 110 shots. Clamps under rifle or carbine: add weight to weight of host weapon and add -2 to weapon’s Bulk.
[3] Air charge lasts for 30 shots.
==== RANGED ELECTRIC STUNNERS ==== electric stunners appear at late TL7 – first sold under the trade name TASER (Thomas A. Swift’s Electric Rifle). They simultaneously fire a pair of darts connected to a power source by trailing wires (minimum range is one yard, to allow the darts to spread). The projectiles inflict minimal damage (1d-3 pi-) but transmit a high-voltage, low-amperage electric current. The victim must make a HT-3 roll or be stunned.
At TL8, some stunners cause electromuscular disruption (EMD) instead. The target must make a HT-5 roll or be knocked down and paralyzed. For more on both kinds of stunners, see Nonlethal Electrical Damage (p. B432).
An afflicted victim remains incapacitated for as long as the wires are connected and the trigger is depressed – typically for 5-10 seconds – and can’t intentionally detach the darts during this time. He continues to suffer the weapon’s effects for (20 - HT) seconds after the current is switched off (minimum one second). After that, he may roll against HT each second to recover, at a penalty equal to the modifier for the shock’s strength (-3 or -5). Note that a stunner’s electric current may start a fire if the victim is covered in flammable liquid such as alcohol, gasoline, or many pepper sprays!
Most ranged electric stunners can also function as stun guns (p. 199) in close combat, provided at least one cartridge remains unfired.
Stunners are controlled in some jurisdictions, ignored in others. Where they’re controlled, they’re treated like knives or firearms. Where they aren’t controlled, use of a stunner might be assault but not a weapons violation!
The TASER TE-76 was the first ranged electric stunner. It saw widespread service with American police forces – including the LAPD and NYPD – from 1978, but was illegal for civilians in many U.S. states and abroad. It can be seen in the Dirty Harry movie The Enforcer.
The TE-76 resembles a large flashlight, and in fact incorporates an integral flashlight with a 5-yard beam. It uses conventional propellant to fire the darts (which led to its classification as a firearm). Each cartridge costs $16. It requires batteries: S/100 seconds.
The M26 Advanced TASER differs from older designs by using compressed air instead of firearm propellant. It’s in service with thousands of police agencies in the U.S. and elsewhere, often replacing the older TE-76. The M26 resembles a black plastic pistol, with batteries (8xXS/40 seconds) in the grip, two air cartridges ($20, 0.15 lb. each) in the muzzle, and an integral targeting laser (pp. 156-157) that switches on automatically when the safety is disengaged. It uses EMD technology. The current is automatically applied for five seconds, unless cut off earlier by the operator. Without air cartridges, it can still function as a stun gun (p. 199) in close combat.
The M26 incorporates two measures intended to make it easier to hold the user accountable. First, a built-in computer chip stores the time and date of each firing. This can be read by a computer plugged into the gun’s data port. Second, each discharged cartridge scatters dozens of microfilm-printed ID tags at the scene of the shot.
The M18 (1999-), a civilian version, has Range 5.
The MX Animal TASER (2002-) is intended to stun large animals of several hundred pounds weight. It has the same stats as the M26, but requires a HT-10 roll! It isn’t certified for use against humans, and is restricted (LC3).
The X26 (2003-) is a smaller variant using the same air cartridges as the M26 but a different battery (S/1,500 seconds): Wt. 0.75, Cost $800. Its laser can be switched on or off at will. It also features two integral flashlights with 10-yard beams. U.S. Army military police mount it under the Colt M4 carbine (pp. 19-120) using an accessory rail (p. 161).
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 7 Tasertron TE-76 1d-3 pi- 0 5 2/0.1 1 1(5) 8 -2 2 $350 3 [1] follow-up HT-3(0.5) aff 8 TASER M26 1d-3 pi- 0 7 1.1/0.25 1 2(3i) 7 -2 2 $400 4 [2] follow-up HT-5(0.5) aff
Notes: [1] On a failed HT-3 roll, victim is stunned while trigger is depressed and for (20 - HT) seconds afterward, and can then roll vs. HT-3 to recover. Integral tactical light (p. 52).
[2] On a failed HT-5 roll, victim is stunned while trigger is depressed and for (20 - HT) seconds afterward, and can then roll vs. HT-5 to recover. Integral targeting laser (pp. 56-157).
At early TL5, nearly all pistols are single-shot weapons. By mid-TL5, multi-barrel designs are available. Nonrepeating pistols become rare after the introduction of the metallic cartridge – people generally prefer to have more than one or two shots if possible! Non-repeating designs produced at TL6-8 are mostly special-purpose firearms for which the number of shots isn’t a top priority. Such weapons include holdout guns, which above all must be small, and target pistols, which most of all must be accurate.
This product of famous London gunsmith Robert Wogdon was popular with British and American gentlemen. His smoothbore guns were designed for accuracy and certainty of fire; they’re as reliable as a flintlock can be built. Similar guns by other makers were used for both dueling and target shooting. (Wagering on target shoots was a favorite form of gambling in England and America.)
The weapon comes with accessories – loading ramrod, bullet mold, powder flask, cleaning kit, etc. – in an expensive wooden case. All dueling and most target pistols were sold as cased pairs. If a singleton is available, it’s probably stolen. The listed RoF is the fastest loading time; duelists often take twice as long to get +1 Acc (see Careful Loading, p. 86).
The Sea Service Pattern 1796 was a flintlock pistol with a 12” smoothbore barrel, adopted by the Royal Navy. Other navies – and privateers – used similar guns extensively during the 18th century. It featured a hook to hang it from the belt. In action, it was fired once upon boarding, turned around and gripped by the long barrel (a Ready maneuver), and then used to bash in heads (swing+1 crushing, uses the Axe/Mace skill).
This flintlock pistol had an 8.25” smoothbore barrel and was used by cavalry and dragoons in the Napoleonic Wars. Troops typically carried a brace of pistols in holsters slung across the pommel of the saddle. The weapon was hefty enough for bashing foes when empty (swing+1 crushing, uses the Axe/Mace skill). Some 66,000 were made.
Use the same stats for the Mle 1777 (1779-1787) and the AN XIII (1806-1817), as well as for the .69-caliber North & Cheney M1779 (1779-1801), a copy of the Mle 1777 and the first U.S. military pistol. Rigby Traveling Pistol, .75 Flintlock (U.K., 1820-1851) During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the threat of highwaymen was constant – infamously so in the rural areas around London. Gentlemen therefore habitually carried a “traveling” or “overcoat” pistol, small enough to be easily concealed. This smoothbore specimen was made by the Rigby family business of Dublin, Ireland. Deringer, .44 Caplock (USA, 1850-1868) Made by gunsmith Henry Deringer of Philadelphia, this was a small, sleek gun of superior workmanship. Deringer sold his custom-made pistols as cased pairs and even in sets of four; it’s much faster to draw another gun than to reload (compare Fast-Draw, p. 81, to Fixed Ammo, p. 87). A pair of Deringers in the trouser pockets and a Bowie knife in the tailcoat pocket completed the ensemble of the well-dressed American gambler, lawyer, or congressman of the 1850s. John Booth assassinated President Abraham Lincoln with such a piece in 1865. More than 10,000 were made. Deringer’s name entered the English lexicon as the noun “derringer,” meaning any concealable non-repeating pistol. Note that all Deringers are derringers, but not vice versa. Remington Model 95 Double-Derringer,
This tiny, break-open over-and-under pistol was the gambler’s (and many a hustler’s) constant companion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Remington made about 150,000, and other companies still copy it in modern calibers. The .41 Remington was an anemic round, but better than nothing in a pinch. The pistol’s flat profile was ideally suited for concealment in a sleeve or boot-top, a comfort to those who cannot be conspicuously armed. It could also be concealed in a sleeve holster (p. 154) – as James West did in The Wild, Wild West.
The American Derringer Model 1 (1980-) is a near-identical copy available in over 55 calibers, from .22 LR (Dmg 1d pi-, Wt. 0.6, ST 6, Rcl 2, Cost $390) and .38 Special (Dmg 2d-1 pi, Wt. 1, ST 8, Rcl 3, Cost $390), to .410-gauge 3” (Dmg 1d- 3(0.5) pi-, Wt. 1, RoF 2×65, ST 7, Rcl 1, Cost $450) and .44 Magnum (Dmg 3d pi+, Wt. 1.1, ST 9, Rcl 5, Cost $530). Most modern large calibers have fearful recoil in the smallgripped, lightweight derringer.
Designed for close protection of tiger hunters riding on elephants (in a howdah seat), this hammerless handgun had four barrels bored into a single rectangular block; other howdah pistols had only two. Its unique and fast double-action only trigger allowed rapid fire, but reduced accuracy. The four-shot limit could be embarrassing; however, the multibarrel rotating-lock system was nearly as malfunction-proof as a firearm could get. More reliable than a revolver, the weapon was popular with British officers in the late 19th century. The usual chambering was the contemporary British service caliber. The .476 Enfield’s lead bullet had a clay wedge in the tip, which caused it to expand (treat as hollow-point, pp. 166-167).
This accurate, single-shot, break-open target/hunting pistol fires rifle ammunition from a 10” barrel. It’s also available in .22 LR (Dmg 1d+2 pi-, ST 10, Rcl 2), .30-30 Winchester (Dmg 4d+1 pi, ST 11, Rcl 3), .44 Magnum (Dmg 5d-1 pi+, ST 11, Rcl 4), and dozens of other calibers. Barrels of different lengths and calibers can be exchanged in less than 30 seconds. Extra barrels are $250 apiece. The Contender is often given a 0.6-lb. 2.5-7x variable scope (+2 Acc).
This double-action underwater pistol was developed for German navy combat divers. Several European naval special-warfare units also adopted it. Top secret until the 1990s, it’s almost famous today – thanks in part to Lara Croft using it in the movie Tomb Raider 2.
The P11’s “silent” ammunition (p. 615) fires underwater dart projectiles (p. 169). At the weapon’s maximum operating depth of 30’, multiply distance to the target by 25 – not by 1,000 – to see whether it’s in range (see Firing Underwater, p. 85). The gun’s low firing signature makes it a viable alternative to a suppressed pistol even out of the water. Its electric ignition requires batteries (2xXS/5,000 shots), located in the grip. Self-illuminated sights (pp. 155-157) are standard.
The special ammunition comes as a cluster of five preloaded barrels. Once all five shots are gone, the shooter has to replace the whole barrel cluster. Clusters must be returned to the factory for reloading.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Wogdon Dueller, .45 Flintlock 1d+2 pi+ 1 70/800 2.75/0.023 1 1(20) 9 -3 2 $300 3 [1, 2] 5 Tower Sea Service P/1796, .56 Flintlock 1d+1 pi+ 1 70/800 3/0.05 1 1(20) 10 -3 3 $250 3 [1, 2] 5 MAS Pistolet AN IX, 17.1mm Flintlock 1d+2 pi++ 1 50/550 2.9/0.076 1 1(20) 10 -3 3 $250 3 [1, 2] 5 Rigby Traveling Pistol, .75 Flintlock 1d+1 pi++ 0 50/550 1.4/0.075 1 1(20) 10 -2 3 $300 3 [1, 2] 5 Elgin Cutlass Pistol, .54 Caplock 2d pi+ 1 70/800 3/0.05 1 1(20) 10 -3 3 $300 3 [1, 2, 3] 5 Deringer, .44 Caplock 2d-1 pi+ 1 50/550 0.4/0.022 1 1(20) 6 -1 3 $130 3 [1, 2] 6 Remington Model 95, .41 Remington 1d pi+ 0 60/650 0.55/0.05 1 2(3i) 6 -1 2 $140 3 [2] 6 Lancaster Howdah, .476 Enfield 2d(0.5) pi++ 1 110/1,200 2.7/0.2 3 4(3i) 10 -2 3 $200 3 7 T/C Contender, .223 Remington 4d pi 3 420/2,600 3.5/0.026 1 1(3) 11 -3 3 $560 3 [2] 7 H&K P11, 7.62x36mm 1d+1 imp 1 400/1,700 2.6/1.1 3 5(5) 9 -2 2 $1,500/$75 2 [4] 8 TsNIITochMash NRS-2, 7.62x42mm 2d+1 pi- 0 110/1,200 1.4/0.053 1 1(10i) 8 -2 3 $100 2 [3] 8 Condor AM-402, 12G 2.75” 1d pi 1 35/700 1.4/0.11 1×9 1(5) 11 -2 1/10 $100 2 [2, 3, 5]
Notes:
[1] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
[2] No lanyard ring (p. 154).
[3] See Combination Weapons (pp. 198-199) for description.
[4] Needs batteries. Second cost is for loaded barrel cluster. See p. 92.
[5] First Rcl figure is for shot, second is for slugs.
A gun is basically a tube, closed at one end and open at the other. The only operational necessity is that it be strong enough to resist the force of the propellant for one shot. Propellant, igniter, and projectile can all be improvised from commonly available materials.
Anybody with the Armoury or Machinist skill can make some kind of working gun, given suitable materials. Marsh Williams, designer of the M1 carbine (p. 113), made his first semiautomatic rifle while a prison inmate. The barrel was a discarded axle; his most complex tool, a file. The Israelis made hundreds of working submachine guns – mainly copies of the Sten (pp. 124-125) – during the British mandate. Old Turkish Mauser rifles provided the parts, each yielding enough for two SMGs; the only power tool used was a converted dentist’s drill.
Zip-guns were a prominent part of street-gang culture in the 1950s in the U.S., in the 1970s in Northern Ireland, and in the 1990s in South Africa. A typical zip-gun is a single-shot .22 pistol. One common design uses a piece of wire-reinforced car-radio antenna as the barrel; scrap wood as the grip; a nail as the firing pin; and a rubber band as the mainspring. It suffers from poor accuracy, power, and reliability, but it can kill: Dmg 1d+1 pi-, Acc 0, Range 70/800, Wt. 0.5/0.0077, RoF 1, Shots 1(10i), ST 6, Bulk -1, Rcl 2. Malf. is only 12.
Finding the materials for a zip-gun takes three hours and a successful Scrounging roll. Base assembly time is eight hours – but use Long Tasks (p. B346) to determine how long it actually takes, rolling against Armoury (Small Arms)+2 or Machinist. The GM rolls in secret; critical failure means the gun explodes on first use, inflicting 1d cr ex damage on the user.
A revolver might employ the familiar revolving cylinder or a cluster of rotating barrels (a “pepperbox”). The earliest models use primitive mechanisms – including TL4 matchlocks and TL5 flintlocks – but revolver design doesn’t really take off until the caplock appears. Many caplocks were later converted to cartridge-firing side-gate revolvers (see Cartridge Conversions, p. 164).
Most early revolvers are single-action: the hammer must be cocked before the trigger can be pulled. Mid-TL5 sees the emergence of double-action weapons that can be fired by trigger action alone; pulling the trigger turns the cylinder, cocks the hammer, and lets the hammer drop to fire the round. At TL6, double-actions largely replace singleactions, and double-action-only revolvers appear. For more on this topic, see Trigger Mechanisms (p. 82).
Revolvers have used a wide variety of loading schemes; see Reloading Your Gun (p. 86). Caplock revolvers are the most involved. The user must load the cylinder chambers separately with loose powder and shot (or a preloaded paper cartridge) from the front, and then prime each chamber with a percussion cap from the back.
Side-gate revolvers have a small loading gate on the side. The shooter must use the integral loading rod – mounted under the barrel – to push each empty case out through the gate. He can then insert fresh cartridges one by one. Break-open revolvers hinge open at the top or bottom. This lets the user eject all the empty cases at once before reloading (possibly using a speedloader, p. 155).
A shooter using a revolver with a swing-out cylinder can swing the cylinder out of the frame and quickly dump all the empty cases at once. Then he can reload, often with a speedloader. Unless otherwise noted, the revolvers described below are double-action with swing-out cylinders.
The Collier single-action revolver was muzzleloading, and had a flintlock action with a self-priming pan (see Multi-Part Ammo, p. 86). The frizzen held enough priming powder for 10 shots and automatically sprinkled it into the pan when the hammer was cocked, reducing reloading time. A tight seal between cylinder and barrel increased power and reduced fouling, backflash, chain-firing, and misfires. Only few Colliers were made.
Pepperbox pistols are forerunners of true revolvers; instead of a single barrel, they have a barrel for each chamber. They became popular in the 1830s and were common until the 1850s, when revolvers of improved patterns quickly replaced them. This gun, designed by Ethan Allen, was a small double-action pepperbox with smoothbore barrels. Tens of thousands were made. Such weapons were popular with civilians in England and the U.S., and widely used during the California Gold Rush. Some were still in use during the American Civil War.
Also known as the “Texas Paterson,” this was the largest single-action revolver made by Colt at Paterson, New Jersey. It was called “the gun that made all men equal.” The Number 5 was the first mass-produced revolver; about 1,000 were made.
To reload, the cylinder must be removed. Total time to detach and reinsert the cylinder is 15 seconds. Reloading the chambers follows the usual rules for caplocks – but spare cylinders ($130, 0.8 lb.) can be preloaded to save time.
The much smaller Number 1 Pocket Model (1837-1838), also called the “Baby Paterson,” was .28-caliber: Dmg 1d-2 pi-, Acc 1, Range 40/450, Wt. 2/0.03, Bulk -1, ST 5, Cost $300. Some 500 were made.
The Dragoon was the first of Colt’s truly successful revolvers. A massive gun, it was often carried in a saddle holster instead of a belt holster owing to its size (14” long with a 7.5” barrel) and weight (over 4 lbs.). It was also one of the most powerful black-powder handguns, with a load of powder and lead approaching that of some military rifles. More than 20,000 were made by Colt, and it was imitated in Europe and the Southern Confederacy (including Texas). Some accepted a detachable 1-lb. wooden shoulder stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk).
The Dragoon was preceded by the even larger Colt M1847 Walker (1847-1848), made at Whitneyville, Connecticut: Dmg 2d+2 pi+, Range 110/1,200, Wt. 4.7/0.15, Bulk -4, Cost $550. The Walkers – named after the former Texas Ranger who had ordered them – were made of inferior steel. Many burst in service. Any malfunction explodes the gun, inflicting 1d cr ex on the firer! A thousand were made for the U.S. Army (its first repeating handgun), and a further 100 for sale to civilians. It was license-made in Austria. Its huge size can be seen in The Outlaw Josey Wales.
This popular single-action revolver took its “Navy” nickname from the scene engraved on the cylinder, depicting a naval battle between Texas and Mexico. A large handgun – with a 7.5” barrel – it was renowned for its balance and pointability. Combined with light recoil, this made it a favorite for accurate shooting, but it wasn’t notably powerful. Some 250,000 were made by Colt in the U.S. and England, and it was widely copied in the Southern Confederacy (including Georgia, Mississippi, Texas, and Virginia). “Wild Bill” Hickok carried two in a sash around his midriff.
The M1851 has a removable cylinder, which takes 15 seconds total to detach and reinsert. Reloading the chambers takes as long as usual for a caplock. Spare cylinders ($90, 0.8 lb.) can be preloaded to speed things up.
Some guns accepted a detachable 1-lb. wooden shoulder stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk). There was even a hollow stock that doubled as a 1-pint canteen! From 1875, it was common to convert the weapon to fire .38 Long Colt cartridges (see Cartridge Conversions, p. 164): Dmg 2d pi, Shots 6(3i).
The .44-caliber M1860 Army (1860-1873) was the Union Army’s principal handgun during the American Civil War: Dmg 1d+2 pi+, Range 100/1,100, Wt. 2.9/0.2, ST 10, Bulk -3, Rcl 3, Cost $400. (Spare cylinders are $130, 0.9 lb.) More than 200,000 were made. From 1873, many were converted to fire .44 Colt cartridges: Dmg 2d-1 pi+, Shots 6(3i).
One of the first true double-action revolvers, the Adams replaced the Colt Model 1851 Navy in British service from 1855. Adams revolvers were license-built or copied in Austria, Belgium, Prussia, and the U.S. – U.S. military weapons were .36-caliber (Dmg 1d+2 pi) – and could be found almost anywhere in the world. Unlike most TL5 revolvers (p. 92), this one had a safety.
Adams revolvers were also made for a number of different metallic cartridges (see Cartridge Conversions, p. 164). These were side-gate loading with rod ejectors. For example, the Adams Mk II (1868-1872) was a direct conversion for the .450 Adams cartridge: Dmg 1d+1 pi+, Wt. 2.7/0.3, Shots 6(3i). Such weapons were British Army issue until replaced by the Webley (p. 96). Dr. Watson’s “old service revolver” was probably an Adams.
The Lefaucheux was a side-gate loading, single-action revolver chambered for one of the first metallic cartridges, the Lefaucheux pinfire. The French navy introduced a variant in 1858. Hundreds of thousands were made for commercial sale – including copies in Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, and elsewhere. Almost 12,000 were acquired by the Union Army in 1861-1862, but mainly used in the West.
The single-action S&W Number 1 was the first American metallic-cartridge revolver, chambered for a small round useful only at close range. It was popular as a backup gun with both officers and enlisted men during the American Civil War. Almost 260,000 were made.
To reload, the user must remove the cylinder. Total time to detach and reinsert the cylinder is 15 seconds. Punching out the spent cases and inserting new rounds adds five seconds per cartridge.
Between 1870 and the turn of the century, dozens of American manufacturers made hundreds of thousands of similar small-caliber revolvers. Copies such as the Hopkins & Allen Defender, Iver Johnson American Bulldog, and Merwin & Hulbert Acme were double-action, but cheapquality only. Use the same statistics except for Malf. 16, RoF 3, and Cost $75.
Designed by Dr. Alexandre LeMat of New Orleans, this unusual single-action, muzzleloading revolver had a nine-round cylinder turning around an 18-gauge smoothbore shot barrel. Some 2,200 were made for the Confederacy by Girard in Paris (and another 1,000 in England) and used during the American Civil War. It can be seen in the hands of the Swede in Sam Raimi’s The Quick and the Dead.
The hammer of the “grapeshot pistol” can be flicked (a Ready maneuver) to fire either a round from the revolver cylinder or the central barrel. The stats in the table are for the revolver barrel. The shot barrel has Dmg 1d(0.5) pi-, Acc 1, Range 30/600, RoF 1×11, Shots 1(15i), Rcl 1.
During the American Civil War, the U.S. Army adopted this single-action revolver with an 8” barrel as the M1861. It later became popular with civilians. Some 140,000 were made.
The revolver’s cylinder is removable. Total time to detach and reinsert the cylinder is 10 seconds. Reloading the chambers obeys the usual rules for caplocks – but spare cylinders ($70, 1 lb.) can be preloaded to save time. From 1871, many of these weapons were converted to fire .44 Colt cartridges (see Cartridge Conversions, p. 164): Dmg 2d-1 pi+, Shots 6(3i). The Preacher in Pale Rider carries such a gun, along with spare cylinders.
The Number 1 was a compact double-action, loading-gate revolver with a short barrel (3.5”) to facilitate concealment. Designed for the Royal Irish Constabulary, the type soon became popular for self-protection. It was widely copied in Europe and the U.S. during the late 19th century.
Besides a solid lead bullet (in the table), it could fire an exploding SAPLE round (Dmg 1d+2 pi+ with 1d-3 [1d-2] cr ex follow-up). The British Bulldog Number 2 (1878-1914) had an even shorter barrel: Wt. 1.4/0.3, Shots 5(5i). It was also available in .44 Russian (Dmg 1d+2 pi+) and .450 Adams (Dmg 1d+1 pi+); the latter could chamber the .455 Webley (Dmg 1d+2 pi+) as well. Some 100,000 were made. Charles Guiteau assassinated President Garfield with a Webley Bulldog. London’s Metropolitan Police adopted a similar revolver in .450 Adams as the M.P. Model (1883-1884): Dmg 1d+1 pi+, Wt. 1.5/0.3. It’s sometimes called the “Sherlock Holmes” pattern, as the detective is thought to have had such a gun.
In 1869, Smith & Wesson brought out their first big-bore revolver, the single-action Number 3 in .44 American (Dmg 2d-1 pi+). It was their earliest top-break, simultaneously extracting design. The Russian Empire adopted the gun in 1871; it fired a slightly redesigned cartridge, the .44 Russian, but the dimensions were so similar that one round would usually work in a weapon chambered for the other (see Ammunition Interchangeability, p. 178). The best production target pistol of its day, the Number 3 was used to set many world records. It was a favorite of “Buffalo Bill” Cody and Annie Oakley.
Smith & Wesson produced more than 206,000 Number 3 revolvers, half of which went to Russia. Other users included the Argentine army, Australian Colonial Police, Japanese navy, and Spanish army. The Turkish army adopted it in .44 Henry (Dmg 2d pi+). Copies – licensed and unlicensed – were produced in many countries. Russia made hundreds of thousands; some were still in use in WWII.
The Number 3 Schofield (1875-1877) was a minor variant in .45 S&W, modified according to the suggestions of Major Schofield, a U.S. Army cavalry officer: Dmg 2d-1 pi+, Wt. 2.5/0.3. Fewer than 9,000 were made. Most were used by the U.S. Army as the M1875 – especially by the “Buffalo Soldiers” of the 9th and 10th Cavalry. Obsolete in 1887, many went to the Wells, Fargo Co., which issued it with shortened barrels to its employees. Some gunfighters preferred it because it was faster to reload than most contemporary American revolvers.
This famous single-action, loading-gate revolver has had many nicknames, including SAA (Single-Action Army), “Peacemaker,” “Frontier Six-Shooter,” “Thumb-Buster,” and “Hog-Leg.” In 1873, the U.S. Army officially adopted it to replace its hodgepodge of cartridge and caplock handguns, and used it in the Indian Wars. It was tremendously powerful for its time – and had a tremendous kick. From 1875, the Army issued the shorter .45 S&W cartridge to alleviate this: Dmg 2d-1 pi+, ST 10, Rcl 3.
The Colt SAA was manufactured in more than three dozen calibers, but the overwhelming majority of weapons were chambered for either .45 Long Colt or the Winchester rifle cartridges (allowing handgun and shoulder arm to share ammo). The .44-40 Winchester, available from 1878, was the most popular: Dmg 2d+2 pi+. Billy the Kid and his nemesis, Sheriff Pat Garrett, preferred this round.
The Colt M1873 Cavalry version in the table had a 7.5” barrel, but there were many other lengths. The next most common was the 4.75” Civilian model: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Wt. 2.6. The Sheriff’s or Storekeeper’s model had a 3” barrel: Dmg 2d pi+, Acc 1, Wt. 2.5. The latter lacked an ejector rod, increasing reloading time considerably (to five seconds per round).
Although the M1873 was replaced in U.S. military service in 1892, it saw police use until the 1940s. Colt still makes the revolver for civilian shooters and enthusiasts; production has reached at least 575,000 today. There have been numerous commercial copies – modern reproductions are just as good and cost only half as much.
The preeminent American holdout gun of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this was a small, top-break, simultaneously extracting, double-action-only revolver with a smooth profile. Its most common nickname was “Lemon Squeezer,” since its grip safety prevented firing if the grip wasn’t held firmly. It could be safely carried in a pocket (or even fired from within a pocket, at -2) – a trait favored by criminal and cop alike. More than 260,000 were made, plus many copies and near-identical designs.
The Russian army adopted this revolver – designed by Belgium’s Nagant brothers – in 1895. The weapon saw production and use through WWII, despite being officially replaced in 1930. In particular, Soviet tank crews received it instead of the Tokarev. More than two million were manufactured in Belgium, Poland, and Russia, and supplied all over Eastern Europe and Asia.
The Nagant is side-gate loading and rod-ejecting, and comes in both single- and double-action versions. The cartridge case completely covers the bullet. When the gun is fired, the cylinder moves forward and the barrel and case mate, sealing the weapon against gas loss (hence its American nickname, “Gas-Seal”). This makes it one of the few revolvers that can be effectively suppressed (pp. 158-159). The Soviet NKVD secret police used the Besshumnyi (1931-1942), or suppressed version: Dam 1d+1 pi-, Range 110/1,200, Wt. 2.7/0.2, RoF 1, Bulk -3, Cost $750. Built on the single-action pattern, it had a combined baffle/wiper suppressor (-2 to Hearing, plus another -1 for being a gassealed revolver). It lacked an ejector rod.
Taking into account several name changes and minor variations, this swing-out cylinder, double-action revolver was 20th-century America’s most common police and security sidearm. At the height of its popularity in the mid-20th century, four in five American police officers carried it. In addition, the U.S. military issued it to Air Force pilots and ground personnel, Navy crews, and many others.
To date, more than six million weapons have been made and exported widely. Options include barrel lengths from 2” to 8”, fixed or adjustable sights, differing grip layouts, and every finish from military blue to gold-plated. Since 1958, the most common version – with 4” barrel, fixed sights, and square butt – has been called the “Model 10.”
The Model 64 M&P (1964-) is the same gun in stainless steel: Wt. 2.3/0.2, Cost $580. The Victory (1942-1944) was a no-frills wartime variant used by U.S. troops. Those delivered to the British and other Allies chambered the .38 S&W: Dmg 2d-1 pi. Speedloaders are available by the 1920s, common by the 1970s.
The Hand Ejector-type double-actions made by Smith & Wesson from 1896 were the first American revolvers to allow quick emptying and reloading via a swing-out cylinder. Available in many sizes, the largest model was generally chambered for .44 Special. However, it was also available in .44-40 Winchester (Dmg 2d+1 pi+) and .45 Long Colt (Dmg 3d-2 pi+). More than 56,000 were sold commercially, and almost 80,000 were supplied to the British and Canadian military during WWI, chambered for .455 Webley (Dmg 1d+2 pi+). Indiana Jones carries one in Raiders of the Lost Ark.
The M1917 (1917-1941) was a version adopted by the U.S. Army, chambered for .45 ACP (Dmg 2d pi+). Two three-round, half-moon-shaped clips were used to load the weapon, hold the rimless cartridges in the chambers, and extract the spent cases. With these, reloading takes seven seconds total. Without them, reloading takes four seconds per chamber.
The Mk VI was the last of the famous big-bore, doubleaction, break-open Webley revolvers. It was standard issue for Commonwealth troops in WWI, and still widely used during WWII. Many police forces issued it through the 1930s – notably the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. More than 300,000 were made. Indiana Jones carries one in The Last Crusade.
The British Army model was chambered for the smokeless .455 Webley. It could also fire the .442 RIC and .450 Adams. During WWI, some were modified to fire the .45 ACP round using three-round half-moon clips (just like the S&W M1917, above).
The first of the Webley military revolvers was the Webley Mk I (1887-1897), chambered for the black-powder .442 RIC. The similar Webley Mk IV (1899-1914) was the standard British sidearm during the Boer War. For both: Dmg 1d+2 pi+, Wt. 2.5/0.3.
The Enfield Number 2 Mk I (1936-1945) was based on the large Webleys but was smaller and chambered for .38 S&W: Dmg 2d-2 pi, Wt. 1.8/0.2. From 1938, it lacked a hammer spur and fired double-action-only (Acc 1). The Enfield was the standard British sidearm until 1957. It can be seen in Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow.
“The most powerful handgun in the world” when introduced, this weapon – renamed “Model 27” in 1957 – was a large-frame, double-action revolver with a 6” barrel, chambered for the .357 Magnum round. Until the 1990s, American police agencies often issued .357 Magnum revolvers like this one.
The .357 Magnum is a lengthened and heavily loaded .38 Special cartridge. Actual bullet diameter is 0.357”. Magnum is Latin for “great,” and often used for exceptionally powerful cartridges. The Model 27 can also fire .38 Special ammo (Dmg 2d pi, ST 9, Rcl 2), which is both cheaper and easier to handle.
The lighter Model 19 Combat Magnum (1955-1999) was a dedicated police weapon with a smaller frame and shorter but heavier 4” barrel: Wt. 2.5. It was also available with a 2.5” barrel: Dmg 2d+2 pi, Wt. 2.1, Rcl 5, Cost $450.
Many American outdoorsmen like to keep a “kit gun” around. This is a small revolver light enough to be part of a fishing kit or carried in a backpack or a coat pocket. Mainly intended to kill snakes, snapping turtles, and other vermin, kit guns are usually chambered for the .22 LR round. Smith & Wesson’s Model 34 was typical of such weapons.
This double-action pocket revolver – built on the smallest frame available from Smith & Wesson, with a “snub nose” 1.9” barrel – was intended for individuals who typically carried a concealed firearm, such as detectives and police chiefs. Some used it as a backup gun, often wearing it in an ankle holster. Many Western police forces adopted this weapon, and it was widely copied.
The Model 37 Chief’s Special Airweight (1952-) has an alloy frame: Wt. 1/0.17, Cost $570.
The Model 60 Chief’s Special Stainless (1965-1996) was the first handgun made of stainless steel: Cost $590.
When introduced, the Colt Python was probably the most prestigious handgun in America. It was renowned for out-of-the-box accuracy, being delivered as standard with adjustable target sights. It also had an intimidating psychological effect, with its heavy, vent-ribbed 6” barrel. The Python saw some police service (including with Detective Hutchinson in Starsky & Hutch), but was generally confined to well-off private shooters.
The Model 29 was a large-frame revolver chambered for the massive .44 Magnum cartridge, made famous by Harry Callahan of Dirty Harry fame. It could also fire the shorter, more manageable .44 Special (Dmg 2d pi+, ST 10, Rcl 3). The standard version had a 6” barrel, but a 4” barrel (Dmg 3d+1 pi+, Wt. 3) and a huge 8.4” barrel (Dmg 4d pi+, Wt. 3.5, ST 13) were available as well. Smith & Wesson had a monopoly on .44 Magnum double-actions for a long time; from about 1965 to 1975, the Model 29 frequently sold for two to three times list price due to high demand.
The Model 29’s replacement is the stainless-steel Model 629 (1978-): Wt. 3.1, Cost $770.
With its 2” barrel and slim outline, the Undercover was an easily concealable holdout weapon of good quality.
The Bulldog (1973-1996) was slightly larger and bulkier. It fired the .44 Special, a round with considerably more power and recoil: Dmg 2d pi+, Range 130/1,300, Wt. 1.7/0.2, Bulk -2, Rcl 3, Cost $300. Over half a million were made.
This large-frame, stainless-steel revolver is intended for civilian shooters. It sports an eight-round cylinder and an integral compensator.
This massive, double-action, stainless-steel revolver is designed for silhouette shooting and hunting. It has a 7.5” barrel, and comes ready to mount a targeting scope.
The Super Redhawk Alaskan (2005-) has a 2.6” barrel for concealed carry and supposedly enough punch to take down a grizzly bear: Dmg 4d pi+, Acc 1, Wt. 3/0.4, Bulk -2, Rcl 6, Cost $820.
The “automatic revolver” – while usually a fictional misconception – actually exists!
This large, double-action, break-open revolver was similar to other Webley designs (like the Mk VI, p. 96), but the entire upper part – including barrel and cylinder – recoiled back in grooves on the frame, recocking the hammer and rotating the cylinder. This lowered recoil but reduced reliability. The Fosbery wasn’t a commercial success; only some 4,750 were made. A few were privately acquired by British officers prior to WWI. The weapon would certainly suit a steampunk adventurer!
About 800 of these weapons were chambered in .38 ACP (1902-1904): Dmg 2d+1 pi, Wt. 2.4/0.2, Shots 8(3i). With an eight-round clip, reloading takes only five seconds. This version appears in both The Maltese Falcon and Zardoz.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Collier, .50 Flintlock 1d+2 pi+ 1 70/800 2.3/0.13 1 5(10i) 10 -3 3 $500 3 [1, 2] 5 Allen Pepperbox, .31 Caplock 1d+1 pi- 1 30/330 1.8/0.04 3 6(30i) 8 -1 2 $150 3 [2, 3] 5 Colt Number 5, .36 Caplock 2d-1 pi 1 90/1,000 2.8/0.07 1 5(30i) 9 -2 2 $400 3 [2, 3] 5 Colt M1848 Dragoon, .44 Caplock 2d+1 pi+ 2 100/1,100 4.2/0.14 1 5(10i) 10 -3 2 $450 3 [2, 3] 5 Colt M1851 Navy, .36 Caplock 1d+2 pi 1 90/1,000 2.9/0.14 1 6(10i) 9 -2 2 $275 3 [2, 3] 5 Beaumont-Adams Mk I, .442 Caplock 1d+2 pi+ 2 100/1,100 2.5/0.11 3 6(10i) 10 -2 3 $250 3 [3] 5 Lefaucheux Mle 1854, 12x16mm 1d+2 pi+ 2 100/1,100 2.3/0.3 1 6(5i) 9 -2 2 $270 3 5 S&W Number 1, .22 Short 1d-1 pi- 2 50/550 1/0.04 1 7(5i) 7 -1 2 $280 3 5 Girard LeMat, .42 Caplock 2d-1 pi+ 2 60/700 3.7/0.16 1 9(10i) 11 -3 3 $250 3 [3] 5 Remington New Model Army, .44 Caplock 2d pi+ 2 100/1,100 2.9/0.14 1 6(10i) 10 -3 3 $200 3 [3] 5 Webley RIC Number 1, .442 RIC 1d+2 pi+ 1 110/1,200 2.2/0.26 3 6(5i) 9 -1 3 $350 3 [2] 5 S&W Number 3, .44 Russian 2d pi+ 2 120/1,300 2.5/0.3 1 6(3i) 10 -2 3 $550 3 5 Colt M1873 SAA, .45 Long Colt 3d-2 pi+ 2 120/1,300 3/0.3 1 6(5i) 11 -2 4 $500 3 [2] 6 S&W Safety Hammerless, .38 S&W 2d-1 pi 0 90/1,000 1.3/0.17 3 5(3i) 7 -1 2 $400 3 [2] 6 Nagant R-1895, 7.62x39mmR 2d-1 pi- 2 140/1,500 2/0.25 3 7(5i) 8 -2 2 $400 3 6 Webley-Fosbery Mk I, .455 Webley 2d-1 pi+ 2 120/1,300 3/0.3 3 6(3i) 9 -2 2 $600 3 [3] 6 S&W Model 10 M&P, .38 Special 2d pi 2 110/1,200 2/0.2 3 6(3i) 9 -2 2 $500 3 [2] 6 S&W .44 Hand Ejector, .44 Special 2d pi+ 2 140/1,500 2.5/0.3 3 6(3i) 10 -2 3 $600 3 6 Webley Mk VI, .455 Webley 2d-1 pi+ 2 120/1,300 2.7/0.3 3 6(3i) 10 -2 3 $300 3 6 S&W Model 27, .357 Magnum 3d pi 2 190/2,100 3/0.2 3 6(3i) 10 -2 3 $600 3 [2] 6 S&W Model 34 Kit Gun, .22 LR 1d+1 pi- 2 70/1,400 1.5/0.05 3 6(3i) 8 -2 2 $400 3 [2] 6 S&W Model 36 Chief’s Special, .38 Special 2d-1 pi 1 90/1,000 1.4/0.17 3 5(3i) 9 -1 2 $475 3 [2] 7 Colt Python, .357 Magnum 3d pi 2 190/2,100 2.9/0.2 3 6(3i) 10 -2 3 $850 3 [2] 7 S&W Model 29, .44 Magnum 3d+2 pi+ 2 210/2,300 3.3/0.3 3 6(3i) 11 -3 4 $800 3 [2] 7 Charter Arms Undercover, .38 Special 2d-1 pi 1 90/1,000 1.2/0.17 3 5(3i) 9 -1 2 $350 3 [2] 8 Taurus Mod 608, .357 Magnum 3d pi 2 190/2,100 3/0.3 3 8(3i) 10 -2 3 $570 3 [2] 8 Ruger Super Redhawk, .454 Casull 5d-1 pi+ 2 210/2,300 3.6/0.4 3 6(3i) 12 -3 5 $750 3 [2]
Notes:
[1] Very Unreliable. Malfunctions on 14+ (see p. B407).
[2] No lanyard ring (p. 154).
[3] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
The semiautomatic, or self-loading, pistol is a TL6 innovation that gradually replaces revolvers and all other handguns – although some older patterns continue to see service, especially in specialty niches. Early semiautomatics are somewhat unreliable, but after the teething problems are resolved, many of these pistols offer supreme reliability. Their main advantages over revolvers are greater ammunition capacity and faster reloading. They can also be made more compact. From late TL6, and especially at TL7-8, semiautomatic pistols are the weapons of choice for the military. They gradually replace revolvers in the hands of police and law-abiding citizens, too. By TL8, revolvers are mostly confined to specialty uses and private shooters. Semiautomatic pistols can be single-action, doubleaction, double-action-only, or safe-action; see Trigger Mechanisms (p. 82). Mauser C96, 7.63x25mm Mauser (Germany, 1897-1943) The single-action Mauser Construction 1896 was the first commercially and operationally successful semiautomatic pistol, nicknamed the “Broomhandle” in America due to the shape of its grip. It was extremely widespread during the first half of the 20th century, and especially popular in Germany, Southern Europe, Russia, China (which received almost half a million), and South America. Copies and derivatives were produced in Spain and China. It can be seen in the Western Joe Kidd (with a stock), and forms the basis of Han Solo’s blaster in Star Wars.
The C96 has an integral 10-round magazine loaded with a charger clip. It can’t carry an extra round in the chamber (p. 88). The bolt closes and strips the top round off the magazine as the clip is withdrawn.
Many weapons have a detachable 1.3-lb. wooden shoulder stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk). This is hollow to allow the gun to be stored inside, and serves as a belt holster; it led to the Chinese nickname he zi pao (“boxed cannon”). Removing the pistol from within the stock takes three Ready maneuvers. Attaching the stock to the pistol takes another three seconds. In 1908-1915, the C96 was available in 9x25mm Mauser (Dmg 3d-1 pi). In 1915-1918, many were made in 9x19mm Parabellum for war service (Dmg 2d+2 pi). A Chinese copy in .45 ACP was made in 1929-1932: Dmg 2d pi+, Wt. 3/0.5, ST 10, Rcl 3.
Beginning in 1930, Mauser offered the C96 with detachable 10-round (0.4 lb., $26) and 20-round (0.7 lb., $27) box magazines. The latter magazine stuck far below the line of the trigger guard, preventing the pistol from fitting in standard holsters. Detachable-magazine guns can have an additional round in the chamber.
Spanish manufacturers introduced selective-fire copies starting in 1927; Mauser made its first model in 1930. The most numerous such variant was the C96 Schnellfeuerpistole M32 (1932-1938), which had a detachable magazine and stock: Acc 3, Wt. 4.2/0.7, RoF 14, Shots 20+1(3), ST 7†, Bulk -4, Cost $550/$27, LC2. Use the Guns (SMG) skill to shoot it. It was less controllable without the stock: Acc 2, Wt. 3, ST 8†. If fired one-handed without the stock: ST 10, Rcl 3. Some 70,000 were exported to China; others went to the Waffen-SS.
This tiny, flat single-action pistol was chambered for a puny round, and was small enough for easy concealment in a vest or pants pocket. While short on accuracy, killing power, and reliability, and ineffective beyond a few yards, it was a popular weapon for self-defense. It was issued to high-ranking officers in some militaries – including the U.S. Army – because it was small and light enough not to wrinkle a uniform. This Browning was the second (or third, or fourth) gun of a lot of people who were more adequately armed.
More than a million were made by Fabrique Nationale alone, plus 409,000 by Colt as the Vest Pocket (1908-1946), which differed mainly in the markings. The gun was simple and operating stresses were low; many were built with hand tools as a cottage industry. Prior to WWII, dozens of Spanish gun makers exported cheap copies worldwide.
The FN-Browning Baby (1931-1983) was similar but even smaller (Wt. 0.65).
The first Parabellum pistol designed by Georg Luger became available in 1900. It was single-action and exceptionally easy to point and shoot. Unfortunately, its toggle-joint action was susceptible to jams.
In 1900, Switzerland adopted the design in 7.65x21mm Parabellum (Dmg 2d pi-). Brazil, Bulgaria, Finland, and Portugal also introduced it in that caliber. In the U.S., it was marketed as the “American Eagle,” its caliber dubbed “.30 Luger.”
In 1902, a new model introduced the 9x19mm Parabellum cartridge, which eventually became the most widespread pistol caliber of the 20th century. In this chambering, the German military and police adopted it as the Pistole 08, which saw widespread service with German forces in 1908- 1945. Export customers included the Netherlands, Persia, Turkey, and Venezuela. More than three million weapons were produced by several German manufacturers – including Mauser, who resumed manufacturing it for commercial sale in 1973.
The LP08 (1913-1918) or Artillerie model had a longer barrel: Dmg 3d-1 pi, Wt. 2.9/0.5, Bulk -3. It came with a detachable 0.8-lb. shoulder stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk). From 1917, an oversized 32-round “snail-drum” magazine was available ($304, 2.4 lbs.); it was bulky (-1 Bulk) and reduced reliability considerably (Malf. 15). This combination was issued to machine-gun crews and assault troops. Captain Englehorn uses an LP08 in Peter Jackson’s King Kong.
Designed by John Browning, this big, single-action semiautomatic was adopted by the U.S. Army as the M1911 service pistol (1912-1925). It was improved to the M1911A1 (1926-1970) and the M1991A1 (1991-), although the U.S. military didn’t adopt the latter. Nearly three million were made for the American armed services alone. Many other countries acquired it as well. After WWII, the U.S. supplied its allies with thousands of these weapons.
The Colt Government is probably the most extensively customized and modified gun in history. Most of these alterations – bent on improving accuracy, reliability, or reload speed – have no measurable game effects. For others, see Firearm Quality (p. 79). A common accessory available since the 1970s is an eight-round magazine that’s no longer than the original. More exotic offerings include a 25-round extended magazine (-1 Bulk, $31, 1.8 lbs.) and a 1.1-lb. stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk).
Dozens of manufacturers worldwide – including in Argentina, Brazil, China, Mexico, Norway, the Philippines, and Spain – have licensed or copied the design in many calibers and sizes. Colt offers smaller versions as well. The Commander (1949-) has Wt. 2.6/0.5, Cost $870. The Officer’s Model (1984-1999) has Acc 1, Wt. 2.4/0.4, Shots 6+1, Bulk -1, Cost $850.
The Colt .38 Super Auto (1929-) is a Government in .38 Super Auto: Dmg 3d-1 pi, Wt. 2.8/0.4, Shots 9+1, Cost $950. It was popular on both sides of the law in 1930s America, specifically because it was able to penetrate early bulletresistant vests (p. 66). The FBI adopted it in 1938.
The Colt Delta Elite (1987-1996) was a Government in 10x25mm Auto: Dmg 3d-1 pi+, Wt. 2.8/0.4, Shots 8+1, ST 11, Rcl 4, Cost $950.
The AMT Hardballer Longslide (1977-) is a Government with long barrel and slide, as seen in The Terminator: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Acc 3, Wt. 3.3/0.5, Bulk -3, Cost $550.
The Detonics Combat Master (1977-1992) – a fine (reliable) weapon – was probably the smallest variant: Acc 1, Wt. 2.2/0.4, Shots 6+1, Bulk -1, Cost $1,200.
The Para-Ordnance P14-45 (1990-2003) was a Canadian-made Government copy on a wider frame, able to accept a double-row magazine: Wt. 3.3/0.8, Shots 13+1, Cost $950/$28.
Kijirou Nambu’s Taishou 14 Shiki Kenjuu (“pistol type of the 14th year of the Taishou reign”) superficially resembled the Luger (p. 98), but was completely different mechanically. This single-action pistol was the standard sidearm of the Japanese military in WWII, and also exported. Some 279,000 were made.
(Germany, 1931-1999) In 1929, Carl Walther introduced a then-radical design: a double-action semiautomatic that could be carried more safely than contemporary pistols. Named the Polizei- Pistole (PP), it was compact and overall a neat weapon, designed as a holster gun for uniformed police: Wt. 1.8/0.25, Shots 8+1. Between the 1930s and the 1970s, it was the most widespread police weapon in Europe, and was exported worldwide.
During WWII, the PP was a common sidearm of German military officers. In addition, the Nazi hierarchy gave large numbers to party members and the administration (Hitler himself carried one). After the war, it was used by the British SAS as a backup/undercover gun and issued to the royal bodyguards. It was license-made in France, Hungary, Turkey, and the U.S., and widely copied. The PP was available in other calibers, including .22 LR (Dmg 1d+1 pi-, Wt. 1.8/0.25, Shots 10+1) and .380 ACP (Dmg 2d-1 pi, Wt. 1.8/0.25, Shots 7+1).
The slightly more compact Polizei-Pistole, Kriminal (PPK) was a more famous – if less common – version intended for concealed carry by criminal investigators. It was the trademark weapon of James Bond. When fitted with a special threaded barrel, it accepted a 0.4-lb. sound suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). The PPK was much less common in .22 LR (Dmg 1d+1 pi-, Wt. 1.5/0.2, Shots 9+1) and .380 ACP (Dmg 2d-1 pi, Wt. 1.7/0.25, Shots 6+1). It was made in elaborately engraved and decorated versions, with gold plating, pearl or ivory grips, etc.
The single-action Grand Puissance (“High Power,” or HP), based on a design created by John Browning before his death (1926), was introduced in 1935. It was the first of the high-capacity 9x19mm pistols. More than 70 armies worldwide adopted it, and it became the standard sidearm across the British Commonwealth. Licensed and unlicensed production has taken place in Argentina, Canada, India, Indonesia, Israel, Nigeria, and elsewhere. The HP was a favorite police and espionage weapon – its users including Vietnam-era CIA operatives and the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team during the 1980s – until it lost ground due to its singleaction mechanism.
Until the 1940s, some weapons were delivered with a detachable 1.3-lb. stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk). An extended 20- round magazine ($28, 0.8 lb.) became available in the 1970s, and was especially popular with the British SAS.
In 1930, the Soviet army adopted the single-action Pistolet Tulskii-Tokareva obrazets 1930g (“Tokarev’s Tula-made pistol model 1930”) as its new standard sidearm, replacing the Nagant revolver (p. 95). It was chambered for the 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge, which was patterned after the interchangeable 7.63x25mm Mauser used in the C96 (p. 97) – or “Comrade Mauser,” as it was known in Russia. Modified in 1933, it was a standard handgun of Communist militaries and rebel movements during and after WWII.
The TT-33 has no safety. If carried with a round in the chamber (p. 88) and dropped or hit sharply, it may discharge. Roll 3d; it fires on 17-18.
During WWII, the Soviet secret agency SmerSh used modified specimens with a 1-lb. wiper sound suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk, lasts for 40 shots): Dmg 2d pi-, Range 140/1,600.
The P38 superseded the Luger P08 (p. 98) as the standard service pistol of the German military. It was the first highpowered, double-action semiautomatic. After WWII, French, Israeli, and East German forces, the CIA, and others used the P38. More than a million were made.
The P38K (1943-1945) had a cut-down barrel: Dmg 2d+1 pi, Wt. 2.3, Bulk -1. Small numbers were used by the Gestapo in WWII and by the East German Stasi in the post-war years. Production resumed in 1974-1981 – this time for West German antiterror units. Only 2,600 were made. Similar cutdown P38 pistols appeared in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
The West German military adopted an improved P38 model with an aluminum frame as the P1 (1957-1997): Wt. 2.1/0.4. It was also available commercially.
This low-cost single-action pistol was intended as a “plinker” and small-game gun. Later models included high-quality target pistols considerably less expensive than competing weapons. Millions were made.
The U.S. military adopted a variant with adjustable sights and a longer barrel for target practice: Acc 3, Wt. 2.8. Another variant was the Standard MK2 (1982-2004): Wt. 2.7/0.4, Shots 10+1, Cost $315.
Pistols in .22-caliber are easily suppressed due to the round’s low acoustic signature. Special-ops forces, mafia hit men, and other professionals have used such weapons for a long time. The Standard in particular is a favorite for conversion to a silenced assassination gun; see such movies as Assassins and Collateral. One day’s skilled gunsmith work and an Armoury (Small Arms) roll can put a slide-lock (p. 161) on the bolt to make it a selective single-shot (RoF 1), and add an integral suppressor (-4 to Hearing, including slide-lock modifier): Wt. 2.9, Bulk -3. Such work costs about $500.
The Pistolet Makarova (“Makarov’s pistol”) was a double-action weapon based on the Walther PP (p. 99). Compact and reasonably effective, it was the issue sidearm of the Russian military and police for the second half of the 20th century. Russia made over five million. The PM was widely exported, and licensed to Bulgaria, China, and East Germany. It’s still frequently encountered in the hands of revolutionary groups.
A variant used by Russian agents and special-ops units was the PB (1967-1994), or Pistolet Besshumnyi (“silenced pistol”): Dmg 2d-1 pi, Range 80/800, Wt. 2.4, RoF 1, Bulk - 3, Cost $600, LC2. The integral baffle suppressor and permanent slide-lock (p. 161) give -3 to Hearing, but the weapon must be cycled after every shot.
The PMM (1994-) has a double-column magazine: Wt. 1.9/0.4, Shots 12+1, $250. Unlike the basic PM, it can fire +P ammo (Dmg 2d+2 pi).
The Volkspistole Modell 70 (“people’s pistol model 1970”) was a large-capacity, double-action-only semiautomatic. It was the first production pistol to use a synthetic frame (a TL8 feature). Less than 27,000 were made, but due to its unfamiliar appearance, it was popular in futuristic movies such as Aliens.
About 3,200 of these weapons accept a 1-lb. plastic shoulder stock (p. 160), which also serves as a holster. The stock features a fire selector and mechanism that transforms the VP70 into a machine pistol capable of firing three-round high-cyclic controlled bursts (p. 83). With stock: Acc 3, Wt. 3.5/0.7, RoF 9#, ST 7†, Bulk -3, LC2.
The Mod 92 was a well-made, double-action semiautomatic with a 15-round magazine. The Italian military and police adopted it in 1976, and it soon spread around the world. Including variants produced in Brazil, France, South Africa, Turkey, and the U.S., over three million weapons have been made.
In 1986, the U.S. military introduced the improved Mod 92F (1984-) as the M9. The 92F is also the choice of many American police agencies – and of Detective John McClane in Die Hard. The barrels of some military models accept a 0.4-lb., quick-detach wiper suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk), which lasts for 30 rounds.
The Mod 93R (1979-) is a machine-pistol variant offering three-round limited bursts in addition to single shots. It features an extended magazine, compensator, and folding front handgrip: Wt. 3.4/0.9, RoF 9, Shots 20+1, ST 8†, Cost $1,100/$28, LC2. It can be fitted with an optional 0.6-lb. folding stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk). It has been widely used in the movies.
There are many other variants, mostly minor; all have the same basic frame and action. For example, the U.S. Border Patrol (among others) adopted the double-action-only Mod 96D Brigadier (1991-), in .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+2 pi+, Acc 1, Wt. 2.7/0.7, Shots 13+1, Cost $700/$27.
This double-action pistol was so small that it could be completely concealed under an average man’s hand, yet was still available in a decent caliber. It became popular as a hidden second (or backup) gun with police officers and criminals. The double-action-only Back Up II (1992-) replaced it.
The Glock 17 was designed for the Austrian military and police, who adopted it in 1985 as the P80. The manufacturers used what was then the latest technology to produce a safe-action pistol with a high-capacity magazine, controllable recoil, and light weight. Its frame and most low-stress parts are plastic, but barrel and receiver are solid steel and easily spotted by X-ray machines and metal detectors – despite early media hype to the contrary. From 1999, it comes with an integral accessory rail (p. 161) below the barrel. A common option is a 19-round magazine that’s the same size as the original ($32.50, 0.7 lb.).
The Glock 18 (1986-) is a rare selective-fire machine pistol: Wt. 2.6/1.1, RoF 21, Shots 31+1, ST 9, Bulk -3, Cost $1,000/$34, LC2. It can also use the Glock 17 magazine (Bulk -2), and vice versa.
Glocks are available in many calibers:
Glock 20 (1990-), 10x25mm Auto: Dmg 3d-1 pi+, Wt. 2.4/0.7, Shots 15+1, ST 10, Rcl 4.
Glock 21 (1991-), .45 ACP: Dmg 2d pi+, Wt. 2.4/0.8, Shots 13+1, ST 10, Rcl 3.
Glock 22 (1991-), .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+2 pi+, Wt. 2.1/0.7, Shots 15+1.
Glock 31 (1997-), .357 SIG: Dmg 3d-1 pi, Wt. 2.1/0.7, Shots 15+1, ST 9, Rcl 3.
Glock 37 (2003-), .45 GAP: Dmg 2d pi+, Wt. 2.2/0.6, Shots 10+1, ST 9, Rcl 3.
Slightly more compact models include:
Glock 19 (1988-), 9x19mm: Dmg 2d+1 pi, Wt. 1.8/0.5, Shots 15+1.
Glock 23 (1991-), .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Wt. 1.9/0.6, Shots 13+1.
Glock 25 (1995-), .380 ACP: Dmg 2d-1 pi, Wt. 1.7/0.4, Shots 15+1.
Subcompact models, all with Acc 1 and Bulk -1, are popular as backup guns. These include:
Glock 26 (1995-), 9x19mm: Dmg 2d+1 pi, Wt. 1.6/0.4, Shots 10+1.
Glock 27 (1995-), .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Wt. 1.7/0.4, Shots 9+1.
Glock 36 (1999-), .45 ACP: Dmg 2d-1 pi+, Wt. 1.7/0.4, Shots 6+1, ST 9, Rcl 3.
Most of the smaller versions can accept the magazines of their larger cousins, but this negates their Bulk advantage. A tiny 0.2-lb. wiper suppressor is available for the Glock 26 (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk), and lasts for 20 shots.
Glocks have spread worldwide since the 1990s. They’ve become the most popular handguns in American law enforcement thanks to their safe handling and low cost and weight. The Glock 22 and 23 have been the issue sidearms of the FBI and DEA since 1998, and are in service with many other U.S. and foreign police agencies. Over 2.5 million Glocks have been made.
This high-quality, double-action pistol is popular with law-enforcement agencies worldwide. It’s also widely used by armies and special-ops forces, including the U.S. Navy SEALs and British SAS. Although it’s more expensive than its competitors, it features exceptional reliability and good accuracy. Copies made in China and Iran aren’t as reliable (Malf. 17). A 20-round magazine ($28, 0.8 lb.) is available starting in 1987.
In 1995, the P226 became available in .357 SIG: Dmg 3d- 1 pi, Shots 13+1, ST 10, Rcl 3. The Texas Rangers adopted this version. By 1998, it was also offered in .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+2 pi+, Shots 13+1.
The P228 (1988-1997) had a shorter barrel and grip: Dmg 2d+1 pi, Wt. 2.1/0.5, Shots 13+1. In 1992, the U.S. military adopted it as the M11 for military police investigators, pilots, etc. Many Federal law-enforcement agencies followed suit, including the ATF, FBI, and Federal Sky Marshals – as did Jack Bauer, in early seasons of 24.
The successor to the P228 is the P229 (1992-), in .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Wt. 2.4/0.6, Shots 12+1. In .357 SIG, the P229 has been the sidearm of the U.S. Secret Service since 1999: Dmg 3d-2 pi, Wt. 2.4/0.5, Shots 12+1, ST 10, Rcl 3.
The infamous TEC-9 was a cheap, crude “assault pistol” with a pseudo-military look – including a large magazine in front of the trigger. It was popular with gang members. Since 1994, it has been made under various other monikers, with slight modifications (use the same stats). A shorter 20-round magazine ($28, 0.8 lb.) and an oversized, after-market 50-round magazine (-1 Bulk, $32, 2 lbs.) are available.
The TEC-9 was a prime example of a single-action design often converted to full-automatic (p. 79): Malf. 15, RoF 20!. Intratec offered a genuine selective-fire variant as the MP-9 (1985-1989): Malf. 16, Wt. 5.3/1.4, RoF 15, LC2. This wasn’t commercially successful, however.
According to the ATF, this tiny pistol was one of the most common guns used in crime in America during the 1990s. It had no outstanding features other than its low price and high availability. It was a single-action weapon of low reliability and power. Available in fancy finish options – including black/gold, chrome/pearl, camouflage, and chrome/pink (the Lady Lorcin) – hundreds of thousands were sold to people who couldn’t afford a superior gun or who didn’t know any better.
This gas-operated, single-action pistol appeared in the early 1980s, initially chambered for powerful revolver cartridges. Since 1991, the usual chambering has been the purpose-designed .50 Action Express. The gun has exceptional power, but is large and difficult to conceal.
Target shooters and handgun hunters sometimes use the Desert Eagle, but police and military forces shun it. Movie armorers like it for its size, however – less-massive pistols often look too small on the big screen! The Desert Eagle is finicky with its ammunition, and some shooters don’t hold it firmly enough in apprehension of the recoil (a bad habit known as “limp-wristing”); both factors increase the odds of a jam. Reduce Malf. to 16 for unfamiliar shooters (p. B169).
The original version was chambered in .357 Magnum (1983-): Dmg 3d pi, Wt. 4.2/0.6, Shots 9+1, ST 10, Rcl 2. The next variant came in .44 Magnum (1986-): Dmg 3d+2 pi+, Wt. 4.6/0.7, Shots 8+1, ST 12, Rcl 4.
The double-action Universal-Selbstladepistole (“universal self-loading pistol”) is Heckler & Koch’s first pistol designed for the American shooter. This popular weapon mates a modified Browning action with a polymer frame that features an integral underbarrel accessory rail (p. 161). It’s respected for its reliability and accuracy.
American law-enforcement agencies prefer the .40 S&W chambering, but most military users acquire it in either 9x19mm Parabellum or .45 ACP. The former, as the P8, has been the standard German military pistol since 1997: Dmg 2d+2 pi, Wt. 2.1/0.5, Shots 15+1. The latter is popular with U.S. citizens: Dmg 2d pi+, Wt. 2.5/0.8, Shots 12+1, ST 10, Rcl 3, Cost $840.
The USP Compact (1997-) is slightly smaller and available in the same calibers. The 9x19mm version is a popular police weapon (known as the P10 in Germany): Dmg 2d+1 pi, Wt. 2/0.5, Shots 13+1, Cost $800. Television hero Jack Bauer uses it in later seasons of 24. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are issued the Compact in .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Wt. 2/0.5, Shots 12+1, Cost $800. The Compact also comes in .45 ACP: Dmg 2d pi+, Wt. 2.1/0.6, Shots 8+1, ST 10, Rcl 3, Cost $900.
The USP Tactical (1998-) variant has a barrel prepared for a 1-lb., quick-detach baffle suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). German special-ops units adopted it in .45 ACP as the P12: Dmg 2d pi+, Wt. 2.5/0.8, Shots 12+1, ST 10, Rcl 3, Cost $1,100.
The Samozaryadnyi Pistolet Serdyukova (“Serdyukov’s self-loading pistol”) – also called the SR-1 Gyurza (“Viper”) – is a high-capacity, safe-action service handgun for use against armored opponents (it fires an APHC bullet). One of the first Russian pistols with a synthetic frame, it has been the sidearm of Russian intelligence services since 1996. Russian SWAT units use it as well.
FN Five-seveN, 5.7x28mm (Belgium, 1996-) This double-action pistol was designed as a companion to the P90 PDW (p. 126), and fires the same APHC round. Several special-ops units adopted it. It has an accessory rail (p. 161) beneath the barrel, and can be fitted with a 0.4-lb. baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk).
This modern pistol has a synthetic frame and a hammerless action capable of double and single-action operation. The grip features a replaceable backstrap that allows it to be configured for small, medium, or large hands. It has an integral accessory rail (p. 161) under the barrel. Police forces in England, Germany, Spain, Thailand, and elsewhere adopted it. It’s license-made in Poland.
Fitted with an optional threaded barrel, it can mount a 0.9-lb. baffle suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). Since 1998, the P99 is available in .40 S&W: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Shots 12+1.
The P99 Compact (2004-) is smaller: Wt. 1.5/0.4, Shots 10+1, Bulk -1.
A double-action-only, stainless-steel automatic as concealable as the Walther PPK (p. 99) but firing a serious round, the K40 is a popular backup or undercover cop gun.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 7 MBA Gyrojet Mk I, 13x36mm 3d pi+ 0 1,000 1.2/0.2 3 6(3i) 6 -2 1 $1,400 3 [1, 2, 3]
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 6 Mauser C96, 7.63x25mm 3d-1 pi- 2 180/2,000 2.7/0.2 3 10(3) 9 -3 2 $480 3 6 FN-Browning Mle 1906, .25 ACP 1d pi- 0 90/950 0.8/0.2 3 6+1(3) 7 -1 2 $160/$25 3 [1] 6 Luger P08, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,800 2.4/0.5 3 8+1(3) 9 -2 2 $500/$26 3 [2] 6 Colt Government, .45 ACP 2d pi+ 2 150/1,600 2.8/0.5 3 7+1(3) 10 -2 3 $850/$27 3 6 Nambu 14 Shiki, 8x21mm 2d+1 pi 2 160/1,700 2.4/0.4 3 8+1(3) 9 -2 2 $350/$26 3 6 Walther PPK, .32 ACP 2d-1 pi- 1 120/1,300 1.7/0.2 3 7+1(3) 7 -1 2 $480/$26 3 [1] 6 FN-Browning HP, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,800 2.4/0.5 3 13+1(3) 9 -2 2 $780/$35 3 6 TOZ TT-33, 7.62x25mm 2d+2 pi- 2 180/2,000 2.1/0.4 3 8+1(3) 8 -2 2 $350/$26 3 7 Walther P38, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,800 2.4/0.4 3 8+1(3) 9 -2 2 $530/$26 3 7 Ruger Standard MK1, .22 LR 1d+1 pi- 2 70/1,400 2.5/0.4 3 9+1(3) 9 -2 2 $300/$25 3 [1] 7 Izhmekh PM, 9x18mm 2d pi 2 110/1,200 1.8/0.3 3 8+1(3) 8 -2 2 $250/$26 3 7 H&K VP70, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 1 160/1,800 2.5/0.7 3 18+1(3) 8 -2 2 $550/$27 3 [1] 7 Beretta Mod 92, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,800 2.8/0.5 3 15+1(3) 9 -2 2 $700/$27 3 7 AMT Back Up, .380 ACP 2d-1 pi 1 110/1,200 1.4/0.3 3 5+1(3) 8 -1 2 $350/$32 3 [1] 8 Glock 17, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,800 1.9/0.6 3 17+1(3) 8 -2 2 $600/$32 3 [4] 8 SIG-Sauer P226, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,800 2.4/0.6 3 15+1(3) 9 -2 2 $840/$27 3 [4] 8 Intratec TEC-9, 9x19mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,800 4.5/1.4 3 36(3) 10 -4 2 $350/$30 3 [2, 5] 8 Lorcin L-25, .25 ACP 1d pi- 0 90/950 0.9/0.2 3 6+1(3) 5 -1 2 $80/$25 3 [1, 2] 8 IMI Desert Eagle, .50 AE 4d pi+ 2 220/2,500 4.6/0.6 3 7+1(3) 12 -4 4 $1,250/$45 3 [1] 8 H&K USP, .40 S&W 2d+2 pi+ 2 160/1,800 2.3/0.6 3 13+1(3) 9 -2 2 $770/$32 3 [4, 6] 8 TsNIITochMash SPS, 9x21mm 3d-2(2) pi- 2 160/1,800 2.9/0.7 3 18+1(3) 9 -2 2 $450/$27 3 8 FN Five-seveN, 5.7x28mm 2d+2(2) pi- 2 170/1,700 1.7/0.4 3 20+1(3) 8 -2 2 $750/$38 3 [6] 8 Walther P99, 9x19mm 2d+1 pi 2 140/1,600 2/0.6 3 16+1(3) 8 -2 2 $610/$39 3 [6] 8 Kahr K40, .40 S&W 2d+1 pi+ 1 140/1,600 1.9/0.4 3 6+1(3) 8 -1 2 $720/$37 3 [1]
Notes:
[1] No lanyard ring (p. 154).
[2] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
[3] Divide damage by 3 at 1-7 yards, and by 2 at 8-21 yards. Has no 1/2D range.
[4] Very Reliable. Won’t malfunction unless lack of maintenance lowers Malf. (see p. B407).
[5] Sling swivels (p. 154).
[6] Accessory rail (p. 161).
At TL7, designers experiment with small arms that fire miniature rockets.
This unique handgun fired small, spin-stabilized, rocket-propelled projectiles. It saw limited civilian sales in the U.S., but wasn’t a success. Some 3,000 were made. It appeared in You Only Live Twice.
The Gyrojet has several advantages. With no ejector and few moving parts, it’s resistant to the elements. It can fire underwater (Range 10) or drenched in mud. It’s lightweight, due to low firing stresses, yet recoilless. The weapon has its drawbacks, however. The projectiles must travel some distance to reach top speed, and do less damage at close range. They’re also inaccurate and unreliable (Malf. 16) – and early production ammo was even worse (Malf. 14).
The Gyrojet’s firing signature is different from that of normal firearms: a hissing sound that’s difficult to identify as a shot (use the 4- yard line on the Hearing Distance Table, p. 158). The internal magazine, in the grip, holds six rounds. Reloading involves inserting the rockets individually (three Ready maneuvers each). A fictional SAPHE projectile would have Dmg 3d pi+ with a 1d-2 [1d-2] cr ex follow-up.
Those who want to be inconspicuously armed occasionally conceal guns in everyday items. Below are some real-world examples. For a “briefcase gun,” see H&K MP5K (p. 123).
This hollow cane contains a barrel and a trigger mechanism. It’s intended as a gentleman’s protection against stray dogs and ruffians. Typically, a wooden plug protects the muzzle (the user must remove it before firing!) and reloading involves unscrewing the handle. Use Guns rifle to shoot it.
The earliest models were TL5 flintlocks. Later versions used caplock actions and then metallic cartridges; they went out of fashion at mid-TL6. A representative example is the Remington Number 2 Rifle Cane (1878- 1886), in .32 LR: Dmg 2d-1 pi-, Acc 1, Range 110/1,200, Wt. 1.5/0.03, RoF 1, Shots 1(10), ST 8†, Bulk -4, Rcl 2, Cost $180, LC3. It had a cork muzzle plug that could be blown out with the bullet.
This is a pocketknife, 3” to 4” long (Holdout -1), with folding blades. The built-in gun is loaded with one round of small-caliber ammunition. Caplock models first appear at late TL5. Later versions usually fire .22- caliber rimfire cartridges. All use Guns (Pistol).
The American Novelty Co. Defender (1919-1929), in .22 LR, is a typical late example: Dmg 1d pi-, Acc 0, Range 70/800, Wt. 0.2/0.0077, RoF 1, Shots 1(10), ST 5, Bulk -1, Rcl 2, Cost $40, LC3.
This is a single-shot gun hidden in a cigarette or a cigar. It’s little more than a barrel and a firing pin. A short string in the mouth end serves as a trigger; to fire, the shooter pulls this using his fingers or teeth. The weapon is impossible to aim properly and ineffective beyond point-blank range. Roll against DX-4 to hit.
British agents during WWII employed the Welwyn SOE Cigarette Pistol (1943-1945), in .22 LR: Dmg 1d pi-, Acc 0, Range 70/800, Wt. 0.04/0.0077, RoF 1, Shots 1, ST 5, Bulk 0, Rcl 2, Cost $20, LC3. It couldn’t be reloaded. American CIA agents used similar devices after the war.
This is a single-shot gun mounted on a wristband. It’s worn concealed under the cuff of a jacket or a blouse, with the barrel along the lower wrist. A lanyard anchors the trigger to the upper body (e.g., tied to suspenders). A sharp pull – simply jabbing the arm forward – fires the gun. It requires Guns (Wrist Gun), which defaults to Guns (Pistol) at -2 and other Guns at -4. Critical failure means the wearer shoots himself in the hand!
British agents during WWII used the SOE Wrist Gun (1944-1945), in .25 ACP: Dmg 1d pi-, Acc 0, Range 80/900, Wt. 0.3/0.012, RoF 1, Shots 1(10), ST 5, Bulk 0, Rcl 2, Cost $50, LC3.
Shotguns are smoothbores that most often fire shotloads: multiple projectiles smaller than the bore diameter. A shotshell can contain anything from a handful of large buckshot pellets for use against deer (or men) to hundreds of tiny smallshot pellets for pest control; see Multiple Projectiles (pp. 172-174). Shotguns can also fire rifled slugs – full-caliber projectiles with superior range and considerable punch. There are numerous more exotic loadings; see Exotic Shotgun Ammo.
Shotguns appear at TL5, as fowling pieces. It’s easier to hit with a cluster of projectiles than with a single bullet when shooting at a flying target such as a game bird! Hunting guns often have two barrels to improve the sportsman’s odds further. At TL6, repeating shotguns appear, allowing quick follow-up shots against larger bird flocks. Repeaters soon become standard police weapons and even see limited frontline military use.
When firing shot, multiply out the shotgun’s RoF to find the bonus for Rapid Fire (p. B373), as explained under Shotguns and Multiple Projectiles (p. B409); Rcl is 1. When firing slugs, use the RoF without the multiplier, apply the higher Rcl score given for the weapon, and modify Damage, Acc, and Range as described on p. 166.
Example: Airk Heimdall shoots his sawed-off, pre-1975 Ithaca Model 37 (p. 105) as fast as he can pump. It can fire three shots per attack.
Loaded with 00 buckshot, it does 1d+1 pi damage, and has RoF 3×9 (each shot consists of nine pellets) and Rcl 1. If Airk fires three blasts of buckshot at his foe, he treats RoF 3×9 as an effective RoF 3 x 9 = 27, giving him a +5 rapid-fire bonus to hit. Since Rcl when firing shot is only 1, he scores extra hits equal to his margin of success: success by 0 means one hit, success by 1 scores two hits, success by 2 gives three hits, and so on. Airk will probably get multiple hits, but most of the 27 pellets will miss. This abstraction represents both shot spread (several yards at 1/2D and dozens of yards at Max) and muzzle climb due to rapid fire.
If Airk fires rifled slugs, damage becomes 5d pi++, and his shotgun has RoF 3 and Rcl 5. Three shots give no rapidfire bonus. Since Rcl is 5, success by 0-4 gives one hit, success by 5-9 indicates two hits, and success by 10+ means all three slugs hit.
The muzzleloading blunderbuss was a short-barreled, bell-mouthed smoothbore. Sailors and civilians favored it for close defense around the turn of the 19th century. Blunderbusses were official issue to mail-coach guards in England, but their main use was to repel boarders at sea. Most European navies used similar weapons.
The bell-shaped mouth didn’t spread the shot any better, but looked intimidating. It did make loading easier – especially on the seat of a bouncing coach or while perched on swaying crosstrees (+2 to Guns rolls to reload; see Reloading Your Gun, p. 86). Many blunderbusses had an integral bayonet, which folded over the barrel (Reach 1).
This was an expensive weapon from one of the master gun makers of all time: John Manton, the personal gunsmith of the Royal Family of England. It had Manton’s patented elevated sighting rib, waterproof locks, and rustproof platinum vents. It was exceptionally light for a muzzleloading flintlock shotgun, but paid for its light weight with increased recoil. (There’s no penalty to fire both barrels simultaneously, however.)
Consider buying a Weapon Bond (p. 250) for a weapon that’s custom-made for the (original) owner.
This shotgun used the muzzleloading, single-action Colt revolver design, giving the shooter five shots instead of the two available at the time from a double-barreled gun. Reloading was slow, however. While scarce (only a few hundred were made), it would make a nice newfangled gun for an American Civil War-period adventurer.
This double-barreled, break-open, breechloading shotgun had exposed hammers and no ejectors. Some 5,600 were made.
Both barrels can be fired simultaneously at no penalty. The barrels are unsafe for use with TL6 smokeless propellant. Any 18 on the attack roll when using such ammo means the gun explodes, inflicting 1d cr ex on the firer.
This firearm was typical of the heavy, double-barreled, break-open, breechloading shotguns standard for hunters, express messengers, prison guards, and mafia assassins in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was one of the first hammerless guns – and the first to feature automatic ejectors. About 18,000 were made.
Both barrels can be fired simultaneously at no penalty. The barrels on some weapons are unsafe for use with TL6 smokeless propellant. An 18 on the attack roll when using such propellant means the gun explodes, inflicting 1d cr ex on the firer.
The finer grades fit their owner better – consider buying a Weapon Bond (p. 250) – and last longer. These are usually engraved and otherwise decorated. See Styling (p. 10).
This gun was a favorite of market hunters and riotquellers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its fourshot tube magazine – plus one in the chamber – gave more fumble-free firepower than a double-barreled weapon, and the lever action was familiar to Americans from the long line of Winchester lever-action rifles. Both long- and short-barreled (30” and 20”) versions were available; the latter had Wt. 7.5, Bulk -5. Almost 65,000 were made, including some in 12G 2.75” (Dmg 1d+1 pi, RoF 2×9).
The barrel isn’t safe for TL6 smokeless propellant. An 18 on the attack roll when using such ammo means the gun explodes, inflicting 1d cr ex on the firer.
The Model 1901 (1901-1920) was the same gun designed for modern smokeless ammo. Some 13,500 were made. Such a gun is used in Terminator 2 – complete with the One- Armed Bandit perk (p. 249).
The Winchester “trombone action” is the most famous slide-action shotgun in history. It lacked a disconnector – it could be fired by keeping the trigger pressed and pumping the action, increasing RoF to 3×9. Over a million were made, and it’s copied in China even today.
The Model 1897 was produced in every grade from military plain to elaborately engraved and mounted. The basic goose gun had a 30” barrel, while the standard riot gun had a 20” barrel (Wt. 7.4, Bulk -5). Either was available as a take-down model, resulting in a package less than 2’ long when disassembled (Holdout -3, Cost $600). The weapon also came in 16G 2.75” (Wt. 8/0.45, RoF 2×8). The U.S. military used a version of the Model 1897 as a trench gun in both World Wars; this had a 20” barrel (Wt. 8.8, Bulk -5) and could mount the M1903 rifle’s 1.1-lb. sword bayonet (Reach 1).
The Auto-5 was the first auto-loading shotgun, designed by John Browning and originally manufactured by Fabrique Nationale. It had lower felt recoil than most shotguns – the action’s operation absorbed some of the energy involved. FN alone made more than three million guns. Between these and various copies, the weapon is likely to show up anywhere in the world.
While intended primarily for hunting, the Auto-5 saw use in both World Wars. The riot/military model had a shorter, 20” barrel: Wt. 8.4, Bulk -5. The British SAS favored this version for jungle warfare in Burma and Malaysia during the 1950s and 1960s.
The Remington Model 11 (1905-1948) was a licensed copy. Both the Auto-5 and Model 11 were available in 16G 2.75” (Wt. 8.4/0.4, RoF 3×8) and 20G 2.75” (Wt. 7.9/0.3, RoF 3×7). Remingtons with barrel and stock sawed off (Acc 2, Wt. 5.7/0.4, ST 12†, Bulk -4, Rcl 1/5) were favorites of Bonnie and Clyde.
A factory-made sawed-off shotgun, this hammerless, double-barreled “whippet” gun had short barrels, no stock, and a pistol grip. It could be worn in a holster or carried under a coat. Aimed at the police market, it was also offered commercially for home protection and dispatching road kills. Some 7,000 were made.
Due to the weapon’s muzzle blast, Hearing and Vision roll to locate it firing in the dark are at +1. Both barrels can be fired simultaneously at no penalty. If used one-handed: ST 11. The load in the table is buckshot, but a smaller load would be more common: Dmg 1d(0.5) pi-, Range 30/600, RoF 2×20.
This lightweight pump-action shotgun is unique in that it ejects spent shells downward, not to the side. A popular hunting gun, it has also seen considerable service in the hands of American police officers, especially with the LAPD and NYPD. Specimens made before 1975 lack a disconnector – they can be fired by keeping the trigger pressed and pumping the action, increasing RoF to 3×9. The weapon is also available in 20G 2.75” (Wt. 6.1/0.35, RoF 2×7).
The Model 37 M&P (1967-), with riot barrel and extended magazine, was popular with U.S. Navy SEALs in Vietnam: Wt. 7.3/0.8, Shots 7+1, Bulk -5.
The pistol-gripped Model 37 Stakeout (1981-1987), with “whippet” barrel and no stock, was designed for “close encounters”: Acc 2, Wt. 5.4/0.4, ST 12†, Bulk -3, Rcl 1/6. It appears as a backup weapon in the movie Aliens. Detective Tubbs in Miami Vice carried a custom-built gun with a further cut-down barrel and a folding foregrip: Acc 2, Wt. 4.5/0.2, Shots 2+1, ST 12†, Bulk -3, Rcl 1/6. The Stakeout was also chambered in 20G 2.75”: Acc 2, Wt. 3.8/0.35, RoF 2×7, Shots 4+1, ST 11†, Bulk -3, Rcl 1/6.
In 1950, Remington introduced an improved pump shotgun that rapidly became the best-selling scattergun of all time. The Model 870 has an exceptionally smooth and reliable action, good handling, and a moderate price. It’s the overwhelming choice of police and security agencies worldwide – and the old standby of many duck and turkey hunters. Such a gun would be the one most likely to ride in the gun rack of a 20th-century American police cruiser or hunter’s pickup. More than eight million have been made, and it’s copied in China.
From 1985, it comes with a 3” chamber as standard, allowing it to fire 3” shells (Dmg 1d+2 pi, RoF 2×12, Shots 4+1) as well as 2.75” ammo. It’s also made in 20G 2.75” (Wt. 7/0.45, RoF 2×7). As sold off the rack at a sporting goods store, the magazine is plugged to take only two rounds (plus one in the chamber) due to U.S. hunting laws. The plug is easily removed; this requires five minutes and an Armoury (Small Arms) or IQ-based Guns (Shotgun) roll.
The Model 870P (1969-), designed for police service, has a shorter barrel and an extended seven-round magazine: Wt. 8.3/0.8, Shots 7+1, Bulk -5, Cost $400. An optional folding stock, available from 1972, gives Bulk -5*. This weapon is also offered in “cruiser” configuration, with a 14” barrel, no stock, and a pistol grip: Acc 2, Wt. 6.7/0.4, Shots 4+1, ST 12†, Bulk -3, Rcl 1/6.
The KAC Masterkey (1992-) is a cut-down variant, mounted on a rail (p. 161) under the barrel of an assault rifle or carbine: Acc 2, Wt. 6/0.3, Shots 3+1, Cost $1,900, LC2. It adds -2 to the host weapon’s Bulk.
Designed from the outset for police and military use, but confusingly called the “Sporting Purpose Automatic Shotgun, 12-gauge” the SPAS-12 could function as either a gas-operated semiautomatic or, at the touch of a button, a pump-action shotgun. This allowed it to use any 12-gauge shell that fit its chamber – even if the load wasn’t powerful enough to cycle the action (such as 12G 2.5” ammo and many of the less-than-lethal rounds under Exotic Shotgun Ammo, p. 103). A folding stock came standard, but it was also available with a fixed stock (Bulk -5).
The SPAS-12 is still in service with several European and South American military and police forces.
Intended as a riot and homedefense gun, the Striker fired semiautomatically, feeding from a revolving cylinder with a loading gate. A clockwork spring turned the cylinder. Reloading was slow (three Ready maneuvers to put each round in its chamber, plus two more Ready maneuvers to wind the spring). The weapon had a 12” barrel and a folding stock.
Several U.S. producers manufactured this shotgun under license as the Street Sweeper (1986-1994). This version had an 18” barrel to comply with American laws: Wt. 11/1.3, Bulk -5*, Cost $2,000.
In South Africa, the externally similar Reutech Protecta (1989-2004) replaced the Striker in production. This weapon automatically ejected spent cases and did away with the clock spring (skip the two seconds to wind it when reloading), instead using a pump-action mechanism to turn the cylinder. The Protecta was available with a 12” barrel (treat as Striker but with RoF 2×9) and an 18” barrel (treat as Street Sweeper but with RoF 2×9), and as the Protecta Bulldog, with a 7.5” barrel and no stock: Acc 2, Wt. 6/1.2, RoF 2×9, Shots 11, ST 10†, Bulk -3, Rcl 1/6, Cost $1,500, LC2. Due to the Bulldog’s muzzle blast, Hearing and Vision rolls to locate it firing in the dark are at +1. It can be seen in the movie Desperado.
The Super 90 is a recoil-operated semiautomatic shotgun, famous for reliability and fast handling. It features a full stock with a pistol grip. The weapon can fire both normal 2.75” shells (in the table) and longer 3” Magnum loads (Dmg 1d+2 pi, RoF 3×12, Shots 6+1). It’s widely used by police units and antiterrorist teams.
The M1 Super 90 Entry (1992-2004) had a short (14”) barrel: Wt. 7.2/0.6, Shots 5+1, Bulk -4, Cost $1,100.
The M3 Super 90 (1989-) can be switched to pump-action mode (RoF 2×9) when using low-powered ammunition (see Exotic Shotgun Ammo, p. 103): Wt. 8.3, Cost $1,170. The M3T Super 90 (1990-) is similar, but has a folding stock: Wt. 8.6, Bulk -5*, Cost $1,170.
The M4 Super 90 (1999-) is gas-operated but operationally identical to the externally similar M1: Wt. 8.3/0.7, Shots 6+1, Cost $1,470. In 2002, it entered service with the U.S. military as the M1014. The M1014 has a telescoping stock and integral rails (p. 161) for a sight.
The “Universal Sporting Automatic Shotgun, 12-gauge” (USAS-12) is anything but a sporting gun. It’s a gasoperated, selective-fire shotgun externally resembling an oversized M16 assault rifle. Based on prototypes developed by Maxwell Atchisson in the 1970s, it’s produced mainly in South Korea – although several U.S. manufacturers have tried to market it. More than 30,000 have been made, most as semiautomatics (RoF 3×9, LC3). Military sales have been scarce. The USAS-12 feeds from a 10-round box magazine, but can also use a 20-round drum ($264, 4.6 lbs.) which adds -1 to Bulk.
The Modular Accessory Shotgun System (MASS) mounts under the barrel of an assault rifle or carbine via an accessory rail (p. 161). It has a straight-pull bolt action and a detachable magazine. In addition to the door-breaching frangible slugs (p. 167) most commonly loaded, the M26 can fire lethal and less-than-lethal rounds.
Contrary to popular myth, shortening the barrel(s) of a shotgun doesn’t improve hit probability or damage at all. The practice serves primarily to render the weapon more compact. Hunting guns have long barrels, making them unwieldy in combat – and if you want to conceal one under a coat or wear it in a holster, removing the stock makes sense, too. Sawed-off double-barrel scatterguns are more handy on the seat of a stagecoach (the origin of the term “riding shotgun”) or in a belt holster!
On a double-barreled shotgun, cutting the barrels down from a normal hunting length of 26-32” to a “riot gun” or “trench gun” length of 18-20” removes -1 from the Bulk penalty. Weight drops by 1 lb., too. The barrels can be cut even shorter, to a “whippet” configuration of 8-12”; this removes -2 from Bulk and lowers weight by 2 lbs., but increases muzzle blast (+1 to Hearing and Vision rolls to locate it firing in the dark).
On a single-barreled repeating shotgun with a tube magazine under the barrel, the barrel can only be sawn off to the end of the magazine. Weight drops by 0.75 lb. Bulk is unchanged.
On any type of shotgun, sawing off the shoulder stock removes -1 from Bulk and lowers weight by 1 lb. It also reduces Acc by 1. Multiply ST by 1.2 (round to the nearest whole number) and increase Rcl by 1 (but not if Rcl is 1). A folding stock (p. 160) may be more useful.
These effects are cumulative. In some times and places – notably the U.S. from 1934 – such modifications will also lower the gun’s LC from 3 to 2.
Example: At the O.K. Corral in 1881, “Doc” Holliday carried a Belgian Meteor 10G 2.875” double-barrel – similar to the LeFever (pp. 104-105) – in “whippet” configuration. The original gun, with 32” barrels, had Acc 3, Wt. 10.3/0.3, ST 12†, Bulk -6, and Rcl 1/7. With cut-down barrels and stock, it has Acc 2, Wt. 7.3/0.3, ST 14†, Bulk -3, and Rcl 1/8.
Shotguns have an especially wide selection of possible loadings. There are many choices besides shot (p. 173) and rifled slugs (p. 166). Most are uncommon, but might prove just the ticket for adventurers . . .
APDS (p. 167). A 12G 2.75” shell with Dmg 6d(2) pi+, Acc 4, Range 150/1,600, RoF and Rcl as slug. $1.50 ($7.50 as experimental round). LC2.
APHC (p. 167). In the 1980s, a company in Italy introduced a 12G 2.75” shell with Dmg 5d(2) pi+, Acc 4, Range 100/1,200, RoF and Rcl as slug. $1 ($5 as experimental round). LC2.
Barricade-Penetrating Tear Gas (p. 171). Many police agencies use the “Ferret-12,” a light tear gas shell in 12G 2.5” that penetrates doors and window panes. It has Dmg 2d-1(0.5) cr with a 4-yard-radius cloud lasting 20 seconds, Acc 3, Range 15/250, RoF as slug, Rcl as slug-1. Won’t cycle in auto-loaders. $1.50. LC3.
Baton (p. 168). Most shotgun baton rounds are 12G 2.5” shells with Dmg 1d(0.5) cr, Acc 2, Range 20/250, RoF as slug, Rcl as slug-1. Won’t cycle in auto-loaders. $1. LC3.
Beanbag (p. 168). Most beanbag loadings are 12G 2.5” shells with Dmg 1d(0.2) cr dkb, Acc 0, Range 10/150, RoF as slug, Rcl as slug-1. Won’t cycle in auto-loaders. $1.50. LC3.
Flame Jet. Marketed as “Dragon’s Breath,” this 12G 2.75” shell emits a fiery cone of zirconium sparks from the muzzle (see Area and Spreading Attacks, p. B413). The cone is 10 yards wide at the base; Dmg 1d-2 burn, Range 75. This restricts the weapon to firing once every four seconds, as the shell continues to discharge sparks for about three seconds (this no longer counts as an attack, however) – and thus shouldn’t be used from an auto-loader, which ejects the shell after firing! While available since the 1960s, such ammo hasn’t entered common service, as its effectiveness is limited and it eventually ruins the shotgun’s barrel. It’s commercially available in the U.S. market. $1.25 ($6 as experimental round). LC3.
Frangible (p. 167). Most frangible slugs for door-breaching are 12G 2.75” shells with Dmg 5d(0.5) pi++, Acc 3, Range 50/600, RoF and Rcl as slug. $0.75. LC3.
HE (p. 169). HE shotgun shells are exceedingly rare. An Argentine company introduced a 12G 2.75” shell in the 1970s that has Dmg 4d(0.5) pi++ with a 1d-1 [1d] cr ex follow-up, Acc 4, Minimum Range 3, Range 100/1,200, RoF and Rcl as slug. $1 ($10 as experimental round). LC1. HEAT (p. 170). HEAT shells in shotgun calibers are also rare. In 2004, the U.S. Marine Corps tested a British fin-stabilized 12G 3” design that has Dmg 1d(10) cr ex with 1d-1 cr ex linked, Acc 4, Minimum Range 3, Range 100/1,200, RoF and Rcl as slug. $2 ($20 as experimental round). LC1.
Multi-Flechette (MF) (p. 174). In 1967, U.S. Navy SEALs experimented with an MF load in a 12G 2.75” shell with Dmg 1d+1 pi-, Range 100/1,200, RoF nx20. $2 ($10 as experimental round). LC3.
Rock Salt. Any shotgun shell can be handloaded (p. 174) with rock salt instead of a lethal payload. This doesn’t do any damage, and Range drops to 10, but any hit requires a HT roll to resist (with DR added as a bonus!). Failure results in “moderate pain” (p. B428). On a critical hit, the target is struck by the shot cup or wadding, for 1d-3(0.2) pi. $0.25. LC4.
Rubber Shot (p. 174). The 12G 2.5” shell adopted by the U.S. Army in 1999 has Dmg 1d-3(0.2) cr, Range 20/120, RoF nx18. Won’t cycle in auto-loaders. $1. LC3.
Silent Shot. In 1968, the U.S. Navy tested a “silent” (p. 165) shotload in a 12G 2.75” shell with Dmg 1d(0.5) pi-, Range 30/600, RoF nx12. Won’t cycle in auto-loaders. $5 ($25 as experimental round). LC2.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Tower Blunderbuss, 11G Flintlock 1d pi 2 30/600 7/0.12 1×13 1(35) 11† -4 1/6 $200 3 [1, 2] 5 Manton Double, 16G Flintlock 1d pi 2 40/800 6.7/0.17 2×8 2(40i) 10† -5 1/5 $1,000 3 [1, 2] 5 Colt Model 1855, 20G Caplock 1d pi 2 40/800 10.9/0.4 2×7 5(10i) 11† -6 1/5 $800 3 [1, 2] 5 Remington Hammer Lifter, 12G 2.5” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 7.4/0.2 2×8 2(4i) 10† -6 1/5 $250 3 [1] 6 LeFever Automatic Hammerless, 10G 2.875” 2d-1 pi 3 40/800 10.3/0.3 2×13 2(3i) 12† -6 1/7 $750 3 [1] 6 Winchester Model 1887, 10G 2.875” 2d-1 pi 3 40/800 8/0.6 2×13 4+1(2i) 11† -6 1/7 $800 3 [1] 6 Winchester Model 1897, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 8.6/0.6 2×9 5+1(2i) 11† -6 1/5 $550 3 [1] 6 FN-Browning Auto-5, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 8.9/0.4 3×9 4+1(2i) 10† -6 1/4 $850 3 [1] 6 Ithaca Auto & Burglar, 20G 2.5” 1d pi 2 40/800 5/0.2 2×7 2(3i) 9† -3 1/5 $400 3 [1, 3] 6 Ithaca Model 37 Featherlight, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 7/0.4 2×9 4+1(2i) 10† -6 1/5 $450 3 [1] 7 Remington Model 870, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 7.6/0.6 2×9 5+1(2i) 10† -6 1/5 $330 3 [1] 7 Franchi SPAS-12, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 9.8/0.8 3×9 7+1(2i) 10† -5* 1/4 $950 3 [1] 8 Armsel Striker, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 10.6/1.3 3×9 12(3i) 11† -5* 1/4 $600 3 [1] 8 Benelli M1 Super 90, 12G 3” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 8.2/0.8 3×9 7+1(2i) 10† -5 1/4 $1,000 3 [1] 8 Daewoo USAS-12, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 14.2/2.1 6×9 10+1(3) 11† -5 1/3 $1,300/$32 2 [1] 8 C-More M26 MASS, 12G 2.75” 1d+1 pi 3 40/800 3.8/1.1 1×9 5+1(3) 10† – 1/5 $500/$34 2 [1, 4]
Notes:
[1] First Rcl figure is for shot, second is for slugs.
[2] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
[3] Lacks sling swivels (p. 154).
[4] Clamps under rifle or carbine: add weight to weight of host weapon and add -1 to weapon’s Bulk.
Both muskets and rifles are long-barreled firearms fired from the shoulder. The difference is in the barrel: a musket is a smoothbore, while a rifle uses a grooved (rifled) barrel that improves accuracy and power. Together, these long arms are the main TL5-8 infantry and sporting weapons.
At TL5, the earlier muzzleloading musket coexists with the muzzleloading rifle until the rifle’s higher power, accuracy, and range retire the musket. Breechloading rifles – quicker to reload, and more convenient – are perfected by late TL5. Early manual repeating rifles, using a variety of actions, also appear late in the TL.
At TL6, the manual repeating rifle is perfected. Semiautomatics follow, and then automatic rifles that offer both single shots and full-automatic fire. At TL7, this leads to the assault rifle – a weapon similar to the automatic rifle that fires an intermediate- or small-caliber round with less power and range but reduced recoil and weight. Assault rifles are the standard military shoulder arms of TL8, but many older actions and designs are still manufactured.
Carbines are a subclass of muskets and rifles. They feature shorter barrels than comparable shoulder arms, and sometimes fire less-powerful ammunition. They’re intended for cavalry, artillery crews, sailors, and (at TL6-8) airborne and vehicle troops. From mid-TL7, the assault carbine – a short-barreled assault rifle – starts to replace the submachine gun (pp. 122-126) in many applications.
“Kentucky rifles” were originally made by Pennsylvanian gunsmiths and named after the unsettled area west of the Appalachians – then called “Kentucky” – where hunters and pioneers often took the guns. Similar weapons were made all over English-speaking North America. They were mostly replaced by the 1840s, but manufacture continues even today for hobby shooters.
The Kentucky rifle was a long-range hunting and defensive weapon adapted from German and Swiss patterns to meet the specific conditions in 18th-century North America. These demanded a rifle with a smaller caliber, longer range, and quicker follow-up shots. The barrel was lengthened to increase power and give a greater sight radius for more accurate long-distance shots. Speedier reloading was accomplished via the greased patch – which wasn’t as precise as using a mallet and rod to force the ball into the grooves, but much faster – and most guns had a small brass box with a spring-loaded lid inset in the stock to hold patches. Relative to period muskets, the rifle’s slow reloading speed and lack of a bayonet made it less effective in front-line use, but it was popular with military scouts and marksmen.
Officially called the Short Land Pattern Musket due to its “short” 42” barrel, this smoothbore flintlock was also known as the “Tower Musket” – or, most commonly, as the “Brown Bess” (after its browned finish). It was introduced in 1744 as a dragoon “carbine” before it became the standard British service arm in 1769. Minor variants saw use until the 1840s, including in the American Revolution. Hundreds of thousands were made, and copies were manufactured worldwide; the British Army also bought it from Belgian and German makers.
Even compared with contemporary weapons, the “Brown Bess” was heavy and expensive, and had poor range and accuracy. It took a 1.1-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*).
“North West Gun” was a generic name for the “trade guns” sold to Native Americans between the late 18th and late 19th centuries. These were cheap flintlock muskets with relatively short barrels. Most came from England – these were strongly preferred by the Indians – but many were also produced in Belgium and America.
The Fusil d’Infanterie Modèle 1777 (“infantry musket model 1777”) was the standard musket in service with the French military during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. At 4.8’ (6.2’ with bayonet), it was the longest infantry firearm of its day. During the American Revolution, Washington’s Continental Army received large numbers of an earlier but similar version, the Mle 1766 (1766-1777). The Mle 1777 AN IX, a version modified in 1801, saw service in the Napoleonic Wars. Some seven million of the Mle 1777 ultimately spread across Europe, and countries such as Austria, Prussia, Russia, and the U.S. based their own muskets on the design.
The Mle 1777 took a 0.6-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). Its Malf. 15 reflects the low-quality gunpowder used by the French military until 1817. Better powder improves Malf. to 16.
Designed by gunsmith Ezekiel Baker, this successful flintlock rifle was issued by elite rifle units in the British Army, including the 60th (Royal American Rifle) Regiment and the 95th (Rifle) Regiment. More than 30,000 were made, and it was also exported to Portugal and Spain. It saw service during the Napoleonic Wars as well as in North America. As the British replaced it from 1837, surplus weapons spread worldwide – the Mexican army used the Baker at the Battle of the Alamo. It can be seen in action in the TV series Sharpe’s Rifles.
The Baker took a 2-lb. sword bayonet (Reach 1, 2*) with a full knucklebow (counts as brass knuckles).
Made at Harper’s Ferry Arsenal for the U.S. Army, the Hall breechloading rifle was used in the Mexican and Indian wars. It didn’t replace the muzzleloader in service because it was expensive to make and easy to break, and had no effective breech seal. Only 19,680 were made.
The Hall took a 0.7-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). Its entire breech mechanism – including trigger and hammer – could be removed as a unit and fired using Guns (Pistol). This was a popular “off-duty” sidearm with some troops . . . Since it lacked grip, sights, and barrel, it was terribly inaccurate: Dam 1d+2 pi+, Acc 0, Range 40/450, Wt. 1.2/0.044, RoF 1, Shots 1(5), ST 10, Bulk -1, Rcl 6.
Nicolas Dreyse’s Zündnadelgewehr Modell 1841 (“rifle with firing needle model 1841”) was the Prussian service rifle in 1848-1871 – although production began earlier, in 1841. The Prussians used this weapon to suppress several German revolutions, as well as in war against Denmark (1864), Austria (1866), and France (1870). More than 600,000 were made, and from the late 1870s until the turn of the century, it was available cheaply as surplus in Europe.
The M.1841 was a single-shot, bolt-action gun that featured a transition technology between muzzleloaders and metallic cartridge breechloaders. All bolt-action rifles can be traced back to it. It was the first of the so-called “needle guns,” which had long, needle-like firing pins to penetrate the combustible paper case and strike the percussion cap at the base of the bullet. Its low Malf. is due mainly to this pin being prone to breakage. A malfunction (p. B407) most often indicates a mechanical problem.
The M.1841 took a 0.7-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). Enfield P/1853, .577 Caplock (U.K., 1853-1866) The Enfield Rifled Musket Pattern 1853 was Britain’s standard rifle until the adoption of cartridge breechloaders. The P/1853 was standard issue in the Crimean War. It was sold all over the world, and most European nations adopted similar weapons. Both sides in the American Civil War used hundreds of thousands of Enfields.
Besides standard Minié bullets (in the table), the P/1853 fired SAPLE (Dmg 3d+2 pi+ with a 1d-2 [1d-1] cr ex followup) and multiball (Dmg 1d+1 pi, Acc 2, Range 50/550, RoF 1×3, Rcl 1). It took a 0.8-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*).
The .58-caliber Springfield M1858 (1858-1866), standard U.S. Army issue, was so close a copy that ammunition was interchangeable.
In 1866, the British Army decided to convert their Enfield muzzleloader into a metallic cartridge breechloader, using a conversion devised by Jacob Snider (see Cartridge Conversions, p. 164). This was the Snider Pattern I (1866-1873) in .577 Snider: Dmg 4d+1 pi+, Range 200/2,200, Wt. 10/0.1, Shots 1(3). Some 815,000 were made. Although soon superseded by the Martini-Henry (pp. 109- 110), the Snider remained in service with colonial forces for quite some time, and many weapons found their way to other users – some forces in Africa still used it in 1940! It was standard issue until the 1880s in Japan, where it was known as the Sunaidoru-juu (“Snider gun”).
This was one of the first lever-action repeating firearms, and the direct ancestor of the famous rifles later introduced by Winchester (see Winchester Model 1873, p. 110). Developed by Messrs. Smith and Wesson, it fired a “rocket ball” cartridge that was a curious hybrid: self-contained but completely caseless, with the propellant and percussion cap in a hollow in the base of the bullet. Ammunition was loaded in a tubular magazine below the barrel. However, the Volcanic wasn’t a very good gun – it was inaccurate, underpowered, and clumsy to handle. Fewer than 2,000 were made.
The Spencer was the first successful repeating rifle. It was used in considerable numbers during the American Civil War, as well as by civilians; many veterans bought their issue weapons with their last month’s pay. Some 48,000 M1860 carbines were made. The gun features prominently in Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven.
The M1860 had a detachable tube magazine in the wooden butt, from which the cartridges were loaded into the chamber by operating the trigger-guard lever. The external hammer had to be cocked before each shot. Preloaded tubes could speed reloading (five Ready maneuvers to reload, or three seconds per cartridge to top up a tube). At 11” in length, the 0.6-lb. Blakeslee loaders were fairly unwieldy and usually carried in a purpose-designed case holding six or 10.
The M1865 (1865-1867) was chambered for the .56-50 Spencer (still Dmg 3d+2 pi+). It allowed the shooter to load a round directly into the chamber, keeping the magazine in reserve. Some 61,000 were produced. The M1865 became the main weapon of U.S., French, and Japanese cavalry in the 1860s and 1870s.
The Remington Rolling Block was a target rifle of the highest quality for the late 19th century, and very much a specialist’s weapon – professional buffalo hunters often used it, in a variety of calibers. It came with fragile but precise micrometer sights (or a scope); some also had double set triggers. About 10,000 were made.
The Number 1 Long Range Creedmoor (1874-1891) was a more powerful version, in .44-90 Remington Special: Acc 5, Range 600/3,600, Wt. 10.6/0.12, ST 11†, Cost $1,750. A fine (accurate) weapon, only 500 were made.
The Number 10 (1877-1934) was one of several shotgun versions, chambered for a 12G 2.5” black powder shotshell: Dmg 1d+1 pi, Acc 3, Range 40/800, Wt. 7/0.1, RoF 1×8, Rcl 1.
More common than these hunting guns were Remington Rolling Block military rifles. Over a million were made and widely exported until WWI. Many countries produced them under license. Surplus Rolling Block military rifles were popular with hunters and irregular forces up to the mid-20th century. Calibers included 11.15x58mmR Spanish Remington (Dmg 4d+1 pi+), common in Latin America as well as in China, and 11.4x50mmR Egyptian Remington (Dmg 4d+1 pi+), popular in North Africa.
This heavy, breechloading, single-shot rifle saw extensive use during the late 19th century. The British military adopted it in 1871 and issued it widely from 1874, in several versions. Some were used into the 20th century. It can be seen in the film Zulu.
In operation, a lever below the stock tilted the breechblock upward, ejecting the empty case and allowing insertion of a fresh cartridge. This round was the much-maligned .450 Martini-Henry, which had a case built up from rolled pieces, making it vulnerable to case ruptures and jams. On a malfunction (p. B407), a stoppage means a stuck case that must be pried out with a knife or a screwdriver, taking six Ready maneuvers.
From 1885, a shotload was available for colonial use: Dmg 1d(0.5) pi-, Range 35/700, RoF 1×11, Rcl 1. The Martini-Henry took a 1.1-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). The Greener-Martini Mk II (1922-1998) was a light harpoon gun for hunting large fish and walrus. It fired a barbed, 0.6-lb. harpoon ($175 each) from the muzzle using a .38 blank: Dmg 6d imp, Acc 2, Range 35/120, Wt. 13.1/1.6, RoF 1, Shots 1(45), ST 11†, Bulk -6, Rcl 4, Cost $2,000. The harpoon was attached to a 35-yard, 1/4” line (3.25 lbs.) capable of supporting 300 lbs. Springfield M1873, .45-70 Springfield (USA, 1873-1878) This breechloader was commonly known as the “Trapdoor” due to its hinged breechblock mechanism. The U.S. Army adopted it in 1873 and kept it as their official rifle until 1895. It continued in reserve and militia service until well into the 20th century. The M1873 was sensitive to fouling and poor-quality ammunition; the extractor could slip off the expended cartridge and leave it stuck in the action. This was usually only a problem in rapid fire and with soft-cased cartridges. Unfortunately, the U.S. Army issued soft, copper-cased ammo until the late 1880s – it was cheaper, and Congress demanded economy. On a malfunction (p. B407), a stoppage indicates a stuck case that must be pried out using a knife or a screwdriver, taking six Ready maneuvers. The M1873 took a 1-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). The M1873 Carbine (1873-1878) had a shorter barrel and fired the weaker .45-55 cartridge: Dmg 4d-1 pi+, Range 400/2,600, Wt. 7.1/0.08, Bulk -5. This – rather than the Winchester (below) – was the U.S. Cavalry’s weapon during the Indian Wars, as it had better range and power. Winchester Model 1873, .44-40 Winchester (USA, 1873-1919) The world’s most famous lever-action rifle, the Winchester ’73 was developed via the Volcanic Repeating Rifle (p. 109), Henry Rifle, and Winchester Model 1866. The Henry Rifle (1862-1866) descended from the Volcanic but was chambered for the .44 Henry rimfire cartridge: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Range 250/1,900, Wt. 10.1/0.6, Shots 15+1(4i), ST 6†, Cost $760. The Henry took a long time to reload. The underbarrel magazine had to be opened and the rounds loaded from the front. Only about 1,900 saw use during the American Civil War, in Union hands, but it was popular with civilians. Some 13,500 were made. The Winchester Model 1866 (1866-1898) – also in .44 Henry – introduced the side-loading gate of all later Winchester lever-actions, speeding up reloading considerably: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Range 250/1,900, Wt. 10/0.7, Shots 17+1(3i), ST 8†. Nicknamed “Yellow Boy” due to its shining brass frame, the Winchester ’66 was also available as a carbine (Dmg 2d pi+, Wt. 7.8/0.5, Shots 13+1) and as a long rifle with a bayonet mount (Dmg 2d+2 pi+, Wt. 9/0.7, Shots 17+1, Bulk -6). Many of the Sioux that defeated General Custer and the 7th Cavalry carried such rifles. Decades of Hollywood Westerns notwithstanding, the U.S. Army never adopted it – although some troopers purchased it with their own funds. About 170,000 were made. The improved Winchester ’73 chambered the more powerful .44-40 Winchester centerfire cartridge. It came in rifle, long rifle (Wt. 8.7/0.7, Shots 17+1, Bulk -6), and carbine (Wt. 7.8/0.5, Shots 12+1) versions. From 1879, it was also available in .38-40 Winchester (Dmg 3d-2 pi+) – and from 1882, in .32-20 Winchester (Dmg 2d+1 pi). Some 720,000 were made, the majority in rifle length and .44-40 caliber. The Model 1876 (1876-1897) was chambered for a more powerful cartridge, the .45-75 Winchester: Dmg 4d+1 pi+, Range 370/2,300, Wt. 10.1/1, Shots 12+1, ST 10†, Rcl 3, Cost $460. It was a favorite of Teddy Roosevelt. From 1879, it also came in .50-95 Express: Dmg 4d+2 pi+, Range 400/2,500, Wt. 10.2/1, Shots 10+1, ST 10†, Rcl 3, Cost $460. Some 64,000 were made. The Model 1892 (1892-1941) replaced the ’73 as the standard Winchester lever-action. Available in the same calibers, most were made in .44-40 Winchester (use the same stats). With an extra-large loop for one-handed repeating (see One-Armed Bandit, p. 249), the Model 1892 features prominently in many Westerns, including Stagecoach and the TV series The Rifleman. The Model 1892 was also offered with a half-length magazine (Shots 6+1). With the barrel cut down to 12” and the shoulder stock sawn off, it serves as handgun for Josh Randall in Wanted: Dead or Alive (as the “Mare’s Leg”) and Zoë Warren in Firefly: Dmg 2d+2 pi+, Acc 2, Wt. 6.5/0.3, Shots 6+1, ST 11†, Bulk -3.
The Sharps breechloading target rifle was a favorite of affluent American buffalo hunters. It had a heavy 30” barrel, double set triggers, and micrometer sights. Some 6,500 were made, in a variety of calibers. About a quarter of these were delivered from the factory with a telescopic sight – typically a long, 1.2-lb. 6x scope (+2 Acc).
The .50-90 cartridge first appeared in 1875. This was the “Big Fifty” of buffalo-hunting fame. Sharps rifles were also available in several other calibers, including .45-70 Springfield (Dmg 4d+1 pi+), and – by special order only – .45-110 Sharps (Dmg 5d pi+) or .50-140 Sharps (Dmg 5d+1 pi+).
A double-barreled rifle with exposed hammers and relatively short barrels, intended for hunting elephant and other massive game. Its huge, old-fashioned cartridge fired a short-ranged ball projectile. Such rifles were popular with white hunters in Africa and Asia until replaced by more modern Express rifles (which fire rounds like those described under H&H Royal Double-Express, pp. 111-112).
The Fusil d’Infanterie Lebel Modèle 1886 (“Lebel infantry rifle model 1886”), made by French arsenals to Nicolas Lebel’s design, was the first smokeless-powder, mediumcaliber military rifle. Some four million were produced. The Lebel was widely distributed – the French Foreign Legion and colonial army used it in their French conquests in Asia and Africa (as seen in Stephen Sommers’ The Mummy), and it was exported to southern and eastern Europe during the 1920s. There were many variants, often used side-by-side. In 1936, the French military replaced the Lebel in front-line service.
The Mle 1886 was a bolt-action weapon with a tubular underbarrel magazine. It held a round in the chamber and another in the cartridge carrier between magazine and chamber, for a total of 10 when fully loaded. The great length of this design – even before attaching the 1.1-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*) – is obvious in All Quiet on the Western Front. Fitted with a 1.2-lb. 3x scope (+1 Acc), the original Mle 1886 served as a sniper rifle from 1916 to WWII.
Redesigned by a commission headed by Adolph Berthier, the Lebel-Berthier Modèle 1907/15 (1915-1918) used a three-round charger clip: Wt. 8.5/0.2, Shots 3(3). The improved Lebel-Berthier Modèle 1916 (1916-1919) increased the clip capacity: Wt. 8.6/0.3, Shots 5(3).
The bolt-action Pekhotniya Vintovka obrazets 1891g (“infantry rifle model 1891”) was the standard Russian rifle until the 1930s. It was still fielded in large numbers during WWII. Some 10 million were made. The PV-1891 used five-round charger clips. It took a 1.1-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*), which was nearly always mounted in Russian service.
The shortened Vintovka obrazets 1891/30g (1931-1958) replaced the PV-1891: Dmg 7d pi, Range 1,000/4,200, Wt. 9/0.3, Bulk -5. More than 18 million were made and widely exported after WWII. Fitted with a 1.3-lb. 4x scope (+2 Acc), the V-1891/30 was the standard Soviet sniper rifle, as seen in Enemy at the Gates. From late 1941, a 1.1-lb. wiper suppressor was available (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk, lasts 85 shots). This required the use of subsonic ammunition (p. 165): Dmg 4d pi, Range 380/1,600, and a total of -4 to Hearing (including bolt-action modifier).
The Browning-designed Model 1894 was Winchester’s first smokeless-powder rifle, and the earliest such weapon commonly available in America. It was operationally identical to the long line of lever-action, tube-magazine rifles going back to the Winchester ’66 (no unfamiliarity penalty). More than six million were made.
No major power adopted the Model 1894 as a standard military rifle, but it saw wide use in such conflicts as the Mexican Revolution of 1910. The Royal Navy used some for boarding parties in WWI. Many police departments acquired it, especially in the U.S. South and Southwest. It was the standard rifle of most American prison systems, and the gun most likely to be found in closets or pickups across North (and South) America. After its introduction, any small-town grocery or hardware store in the U.S. was liable to have a few boxes of .30-30 ammo.
The Gewehr 98 (“rifle model 1898”) was the standard rifle of the German military during WWI. Many consider it to be the finest bolt-action design ever. Mauser rifles were made in many calibers; the ’98 action was so successful that it was used throughout the entire 20th century for everything from infantry carbines through sniper rifles to hunting shotguns. It was also widely licensed and copied. In many conflicts up to the 1950s, both sides were armed with Mausers.
The Gew98 accepted a 1-lb. knife bayonet (Reach 1, 2*) and used five-round charger clips. During WWI, a few received extended, clip-charged “trench” magazines taking 25 rounds: Wt. 11.3/1.5, Shots 25(15). From 1915, a 1.1-lb. 4x scope (+2 Acc) was issued to snipers.
The Gew98 was widely exported in many calibers, including 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi) to the Boers, Brazil, and Mexico, and 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi) to Argentina, Bolivia, and Turkey. In the 1920s, many old ’98 actions were mated with new stocks and barrels and converted to 12G 2.75” shotguns for export to Africa and the Americas: Dmg 1d+1 pi, Acc 3, Range 40/800, Wt. 6.2/0.2, RoF 1×9, Shots 2+1(3i), ST 10†, Rcl 1/6.
The Pirschbüchse C98/07 (1907-1938) was a hunting rifle in 8x60mm Mauser: Dmg 7d pi, Wt. 7.5/0.3, Shots 5(3i). Alternative calibers included 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi) and 10.75x68mm Mauser (Dmg 7d+1 pi+). Many were decorated; see Styling (p. 10).
The Karabiner 98 Kurz (1935-1946) short rifle was the German infantry rifle of WWII: Dmg 7d pi, Range 1,000/4,300, Wt. 8.9/0.3, Shots 5+1(3), ST 10†, Cost $400. The Kar98k was widely exported, licensed, and copied; it was easily the most common military rifle worldwide from the 1930s to the 1950s. The German military alone acquired over 10 million. Other users included China, Czechoslovakia, Israel, Persia, Poland, Romania, Spain, Turkey, and Yugoslavia.
This Holland & Holland piece was the world’s most powerful hunting rifle from its introduction until the late 1950s. The only weapons chambered for the .600 Nitro Express were pricy, break-open, double-barreled rifles in the English style . . . and the Royal Double-Express was normally only sold at the gun makers in London and in the most exclusive sporting-goods stores of the world’s major cities. Custom-made on demand, with the usual wait for delivery being a year or more, it was very expensive. In Africa, used guns were sometimes available at a bargain – frequently because the last owner had made one mistake too many with elephant or rhino.
Holland & Holland ceased making rifles in this caliber in 1974. Occasionally, other manufacturers still produce similar specimens to order. Used guns in good condition easily fetch up to $60,000 today.
From 1907, another popular caliber was .470 Nitro Express: Dmg 8d+2 pi+, Range 640/4,000, Wt. 14.2/0.24, ST 12†, Rcl 5. In 1989, H&H introduced the .700 Nitro Express: Dmg 5dx2 pi++, Range 600/3,800, Wt. 19.3/0.5, ST 15†, Rcl 9, Cost $116,000.
The (original!) owner of a custom-made H&H rifle should consider buying a Weapon Bond (p. 250).
This Browning invention was the earliest successful self-loading rifle. Used mainly as a hunting weapon, the Model 8 – and the virtually identical Model 81 Woodsmaster (1936- 1950) – was a popular choice with American law enforcers (notably the FBI and Texas Rangers) during the 1930s and 1940s. Counting both models, some 136,000 were made. It can be seen in the Western Ride the High Country.
The Model 8 breaks down into two parts for easy stowage (Holdout -3). Assembly requires 20 seconds and an IQ-based Guns (Rifle) or Armoury (Small Arms) roll. An alternative chambering is .30 Remington (Dmg 5d pi). One can load the rifle using five-round charger clips (takes nine seconds) or with individual cartridges (three Ready maneuvers per round). “Police only” magazine extensions for 10, 15, or 20 rounds became available in the 1930s.
In 1906, the U.S. Army started issuing the M1903 – essentially a copy of the Mauser ’98 (p. 111), but exceptional for its well-fitted action, excellent sights, and highly developed cartridge. This rifle spread worldwide as both a military weapon (the U.S. handed them out as military assistance during and after WWII) and a sporting gun. Two million were made.
The M1903 took a 1.1-lb. sword bayonet (Reach 1, 2*) and used five-round charger clips. During WWI, a few rifles received extended, clip-charged magazines: Wt. 10/1.2, Shots 20(12).
The M1903A4 (1943-1944) was a sniper variant with 2.5x scope: Acc 5+1, Wt. 9.7.
The Arisaka Meiji 38 Shiki Shoujuu (“Arisaka infantry rifle type of the 38th year of the Meiji reign”) was loosely based on the Mauser ’98 bolt-action (p. 111). It was the standard Japanese rifle until 1939 and still in widespread use during WWII. More than three million were made. It was widely exported in the 1910s and 1920s; during WWI, the United Kingdom bought 150,000 as the Pattern 07 (used by T. E. Lawrence’s troops during the Arab Revolt), and Russia acquired over half a million. Mexico adopted an export variant in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi).
The Arisaka 38 Shiki used five-round charger clips and took a 0.9-lb. sword bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). A 1.1-lb. 2.5x scope (+1 Acc) transformed it into a sniper rifle.
The weapon’s replacement, the Arisaka 99 Shiki Tanshoujuu (1939-1945), was in 7.7x58mm Arisaka: Dmg 6d+2 pi, Range 900/3,900, Wt. 8.6/0.3.
The Short Magazine, Lee-Enfield Mark III served the British Army during both World Wars. It was widely distributed to Commonwealth nations, and also produced in Australia and in India (where reserve units still use it). Seven million were made.
The SMLE Mk III was one of the fastest bolt-action rifles to operate. “Old Smelly” had a magazine topped up with single cartridges or five-round charger clips (0.3 lb.). The magazine was detachable (1 lb.) but normally not used as such – each rifle came with only one. (If a spare magazine is available, reloading takes only three Ready maneuvers.) The gun took a 1.3-lb. sword bayonet (Reach 1, 2*).
This design saw numerous variations during its century of service. The earliest was the Lee-Metford Mk I (1889-1892), which still fired black-powder ammo. It had an eight-round magazine and couldn’t use charger clips: Dmg 5d+2 pi, Range 700/3,000, Wt. 10/0.5, Shots 8+1(3i), Bulk -6. Some 360,000 were made. The Lee-Metford Mk II (1892-1895) introduced the 10-round magazine: Dmg 5d+2 pi, Range 700/3,000, Wt. 9.9/0.6, Shots 10+1(3i), Bulk -6.
The SMLE Mk I (1903-1907) – which fired the improved smokeless cartridge and introduced clip-loading – was the first of the short rifles to unify infantry rifles with carbines: Wt. 8.7/0.6, Shots 10+1(5).
The Number 4 Mk I (1941-1945) was a cheaper wartime derivative: Wt. 9.6/0.6, Shots 10+1(5). More than four million were made in Australia, Canada, India, the U.K., and the U.S.
The Sterling De Lisle Mk I (1944-1945) was a suppressed commando weapon built on the SMLE Mk III. It was chambered for .45 ACP, had an integral baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, including bolt-action modifier), and used the magazine of the Colt Government (pp. 98-99): Dmg 3d-1 pi+, Acc 3, Range 150/1,600, Wt. 8.7/0.5, Shots 7+1(3), ST 9†, Bulk -4, Rcl 2. Some 200 were made. It saw action as late as the 1950s, in Korea and Malaysia.
The last British service version of the Enfield was the L42A1 (1965-1970), a sniper rifle in 7.62x51mm NATO, with a 3x scope: Dmg 7d pi, Acc 6+1, Range 1,000/4,200, Wt. 10.8/1, Shots 10+1(3). It was used until the late 1980s.
Caught unprepared by the British invention of the tank in WWI, the Germans introduced a huge, single-shot bolt-action rifle to combat armored vehicles. (It would also give good service against Lost World creatures!) Some 15,800 were made. Most were destroyed after the war.
The 5.5’-long weapon fired an APHC bullet capable of penetrating all tanks of its time. The T-Gew18 was fired prone from its integral bipod. Its fearsome recoil broke the collarbone of many a German soldier (an 18 on the attack roll for a firer with less than minimum ST does 1d-4 cr damage).
The Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) – which entered U.S. service in 1918 – was a heavy, full-automatic rifle designed to be fired from the hip or shoulder on the assault. Some 100,000 were made, but came too late for major service during WWI. Between the wars, American police and prison security forces adopted the BAR, and it saw use with gangsters such as Bonnie and Clyde, who stole the guns from police stations and National Guard armories. (Clyde liked to cut off barrel, sights, and butt: Dmg 6d+2 pi, Acc 3, Wt. 15.2, ST 12†, Rcl 3.) A burst from it was a lot more likely to disable a car than a burst from a Tommy gun (p. 122). The M1918 was still the standard squad automatic weapon of U.S. forces in early WWII. It used detachable 20-round magazines, and AP ammo (Dmg 5d(2) pi-) was available.
The Colt R75 (1925-1942) was a commercial variant with pistol grip, heavier barrel, and bipod: Wt. 21.4, ST 11B†. Some 5,000 were made for police departments, civilian sale, and export.
The Colt R80 Monitor (1931-1942) was another commercial variant, with pistol grip, short barrel, and compensator: Dmg 6d+2 pi, Acc 4, Wt. 17.3, ST 11†, Bulk -5, Cost $3,600. Only 125 were made, most going to the FBI.
The M1918A2 (1943-1953) had a heavier barrel and a bipod to improve its performance as a squad automatic weapon: Wt. 22.5, RoF 6/9!, ST 11B†. It couldn’t fire single shots, but had two selectable rates of fire (low at RoF 6!, high at RoF 9!). During late WWII and the Korean War, it often doubled as a LMG, and was supplied in large numbers to many U.S. allies. Some 250,000 were made. The U.S. Army used it with satisfaction until 1959; National Guard units still had it in the 1970s.
During the 1920s and 1930s, licensed variants comparable to the M1918A2 were made by Sweden in 6.5x55mm Mauser (Dmg 6d pi), by Belgium in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi), and by Poland in 7.92x57mm Mauser (Dmg 7d pi).
The M1, designed by John Garand, was the first successful semiautomatic rifle to see widespread use. It gave the U.S. a distinct advantage in WWII, when its adversaries were armed mainly with bolt-action rifles. Adopted by the U.S. Army in 1936 and standard during WWII, it was distributed around the world after 1945. Six million were made. Japan tried to copy it in 1945 in 7.7x58mm Arisaka (Dmg 7d pi), while Italy was licensed to manufacture it in the 1950s. The Garand wasn’t normally available to civilians until 1959.
The Garand fired a powerful and accurate cartridge, and its gas-operated action made control in rapid fire much easier than with manual actions. It used an eight-round en bloc clip, which was ejected when empty with an embarrassing “ping.” It took a 1.1-lb. sword bayonet (Reach 1, 2*) or, from 1943, a 0.8-lb. knife bayonet (Reach 1). The M1C (1944-1945) was a sniper version mounting a 2.5x scope: Acc 5+1, Wt. 11.7.
This successful hunting rifle was based on the Mauser ’98 bolt-action (p. 97). The two-dozen standard calibers available at different times have included the .220 Swift (Dmg 6d+2 pi), 7.62x51mm NATO (Dmg 7d pi), and .375 H&H Magnum (Dmg 8d+2 pi, Shots 4+1) – but four in five were in .30-06. Some 1.5 million were produced. Most owners added a telescopic sight.
The famous Model 70 African (1956-2006) was chambered for the .458 Winchester Magnum: Dmg 8d pi+, Range 1,100/6,700, Wt. 9.6/0.3, Shots 3+1(3i), ST 12†, Rcl 7, Cost $4,700.
The S18-1000 was a bipod-mounted, 7.1’-long semiautomatic rifle designed for use against tanks. It verged on being a small cannon, and was too massive to fire from the hip or shoulder (except by a giant or a mecha, which would require a larger trigger!). When introduced, it was the world’s most powerful man-portable antitank weapon. It was acquired by the Dutch East Indies, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Switzerland, and saw heavy use in the North African campaign of WWII.
The S18-1000 fed from a 10-round magazine inserted from the left-hand side. It fired AP (in the table) and SAPHE (Dmg 6dx3 pi++ with a 2d [1d] cr ex follow-up). A 2.75x scope was standard. It could be disassembled into 44- lb. and 73-lb. loads for backpack transport. An alternative was a manually pulled two-wheeled carriage (see Pulling and Dragging, p. B353), which weighed 306 lbs. with gun and a case holding three magazines.
The very scarce S18-1100 (1938-1940) was identical, but capable of full-automatic fire: RoF 14.
The U.S. Army adopted the M1 carbine to replace sidearms, giving vehicle and heavy-weapon crews a firearm longer-ranged than a pistol but less cumbersome than a rifle. Over 5.5 million were made; the M1 proved popular despite the .30-caliber round’s mediocre stopping power. It continued to see service in Korea and in Vietnam, mainly with Asian troops. Surplus weapons were common with police forces and prison guards – especially in the Americas and Southeast Asia – and were used in many high-profile shootings in the U.S. in the 1960s and 1970s. The M1 was license-made in Japan after WWII, and commercial production by other manufacturers resumed in 1960.
The M1 used a detachable box magazine. Late-production carbines took a 1-lb. knife bayonet (Reach 1). The M1A1 (1942-1945), with a folding stock, was intended for parachutists: Wt. 6.2/0.6, Bulk -4*. Some 150,000 were made.
The M2 (1944-1945), a selective-fire variant of the M1, became the more common version in military service after WWII. About 570,000 were made. From April 1945, it came with a curved 30-round magazine: Wt. 6.3/1.1, RoF 12, Shots 30+1(3), Cost $450/$29. Illegally filing the sear on a standard M1 also allowed full-auto fire but made the weapon unreliable: Malf. 14, RoF 12!. A well-used M1 with a worn sear would sometimes burst-fire unexpectedly – which could be quite disconcerting to the firer!
The M3 (1944) was an M2 fitted with a “Sniperscope” consisting of a 70-yard IR illuminator (p. 47) and a 4x early night sight (p. 156), adding 5 lbs. to weight and giving +2 Acc and Night Vision 2. A heavy battery assembly carried in a rucksack (6 lbs., 2xM/2 hrs.) provided power. Only 2,100 were made, but they were used effectively against the Japanese in WWII. An improved version with a 125-yard illuminator was fielded during the Korean War.
The Universal Model 3000 Enforcer (1964-1983) was a cut-down “pistol” with 10.3” barrel and no stock: Dmg 4d- 1 pi, Acc 3, Range 280/1,800, Wt. 5.3/1.1, Shots 30+1(3), ST 8†, Bulk -3, Rcl 3, Cost $600/$29, LC2.
The Fallschirmjägergewehr 42 (“parachutist’s rifle model 1942”) was a unique automatic rifle intended to arm the Luftwaffe’s airborne troops. Using a bullpup arrangement with the magazine inserted horizontally on the left-hand side, it had a relatively short overall length and a bipod for prone firing. Only a few hundred were made for trials – but it was used in the daring raid to free Mussolini in 1943.
Late-production guns further developed by Krieghoff appeared in 1944-1945, with various detail changes. The final version had Wt. 12.9/2, RoF 12. Perhaps 5,000 were made. Some were fitted with a 1.3-lb. 4x scope (+2 Acc). A 10-round magazine was available ($28, 1.1 lbs.).
The Schmeisser-designed Sturmgewehr 44 (“assault rifle model 1944”) was the first assault rifle in name, shape, and function. Firing an intermediate-power round, it evolved via the MKb42, MP43, and MP44 – all of which were basically the same gun (use the same stats). A few thousand MKb42s were successfully tested at the front in 1942, whereupon the MP43 went into full production. Production changes led to the MP44, which was renamed the StG44 in late 1944. Some 426,000 were made. It continues to surface in conflicts in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
In late 1944, about 300 weapons were fitted with the secret ZG1223 Vampir active-IR sighting system. This consisted of a 75-yard IR illuminator (p. 47) and a 4x early night sight (p. 156), adding 5.1 lbs. to weight and giving +2 Acc and Night Vision 2. A battery assembly carried in a rucksack (30 lbs., 2xL/4 hrs.) provided power.
Also in 1944, some 1,500 guns received detachable Krummlauf (“curved barrel”) extensions. The SGV J had a 30° curvature and a prism sight, for use by infantry to shoot around corners: Acc 3, Wt. 16, Bulk -6, and attack rolls are at -2. The SGV P, with a 90° curvature and a 1.25x prism scope, was intended for tank crews to shoot through a roof firing port (p. 228) at infantry attacking from within the dead angles of the tank’s guns: Acc 2, Wt. 17.7, Bulk -6, and attack rolls are -4.
The Samozaryadinyi Karabina Simonova obrazets 1945g (“Simonov’s self-loading carbine model 1945”) was a semiautomatic rifle chambering the 7.62x39mm intermediate cartridge. A pre-production lot was used in combat in early 1944, and some were employed in the Battle of Berlin in 1945, but full-scale production didn’t start until 1949. The SKS served in the Soviet army until the widespread issue of the AK-47 (p. 114). It was manufactured in Albania, China, East Germany, North Korea, Romania, and Yugoslavia; Chinesemade versions were widely used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. During the 1980s, surplus weapons and commercial variants were exported in large numbers. In the early 1990s, it was the best-selling rifle in the U.S., where hunters and “survivalists” bought an estimated two million guns.
The SKS uses 10-round charger clips. Many rifles sold as surplus have been modified to use detachable AK-47 magazines instead. The permanently attached bayonet (Reach 1) swivels under the muzzle when not in use.
The Belgian Fusil Automatique Légère (“light automatic rifle”) was a huge success; over 90 nations ultimately adopted it. It was made under license in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, India, Israel, Mexico, South Africa, the U.K., and Venezuela. Some countries – including Australia, Canada, India, the Netherlands, and the U.K. (there called the L1A1) – acquired semiautomatic versions (RoF 3). The FAL armed the British in Malaya, the Australians and New Zealanders in Vietnam, and both sides in many African conflicts of the 1960s and 1970s, as well as in the 1982 Falklands War.
The FAL used a detachable magazine and took a 0.5-lb. socket bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). Commonwealth rifles could accept the 30-round magazine ($33, 2.6 lbs.) of the L4A4 variant of the Bren (p. 133). British rifles were often fitted with a 1-lb. tritium-illuminated 4x scope (+2 Acc and removes -2 from darkness penalties).
The FAL-Para (1955-1987) had a shorter barrel and a folding stock: Dmg 7d-1 pi, Range 900/3,900, Wt. 9.9/1.6, Bulk -5*.
The M14 was based on the M1 Garand (p. 113) but chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, equipped with a detachable 20-round magazine, and capable of selective fire. Some 1.4 million were made; it was also licensed to Taiwan. A 5.9-lb. 4x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 4, 2xS/72 hrs.) became available in 1965. Duplex ammo was sometimes issued in Vietnam: Dmg 6d pi, Range 500/2,100, RoF 12×2, Rcl 2.
Based on the M14, the RIA M21 (1969-1970) was the U.S. Army’s standard sniper rifle until 1988. This fine (accurate) weapon had a match-grade barrel and a 1.4-lb. 3-9x variable scope: Acc 6+3, Wt. 12.7, RoF 3, Cost $4,500, LC3. It accepted a 3.6-lb. baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). A 3.3-lb. 4x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 5, 2xS/30 hrs.) was introduced in 1978. Commercial copies went on sale in the 1990s.
The Springfield M1A (1971-) is a semiautomatic M14 produced for civilian sale as a hunting and target rifle: Wt. 10.6/1.6, RoF 3, Cost $1,500, LC3. More than 230,000 have been made.
The RTE M14 Designated Marksman Rifle (2002-) is a refurbished M14 fitted with a synthetic stock, a bipod, and a 1.4-lb. 3.5-10x variable scope: Acc 5+3, Wt. 11/1.6, RoF 3, Cost $2,500, LC3. The U.S. Marine Corps issues it at squad level.
The NSWC Crane MK 14 MOD 0 Enhanced Battle Rifle (2005-), adopted by U.S. special-ops forces, is a refurbished M14 with a shortened barrel, accessory rails, and a retractable stock: Dmg 6d+2 pi, Range 850/3,750, Wt. 14.6/1.6, Bulk -4*, Cost $2,900.
The AR-7 was a light, cheap, but unreliable semiautomatic survival carbine. ArmaLite stopped making it in 1973, but it has been continuously available as other producers acquire the rights to the design. It sells well among recreational “plinking” shooters and people who want to have a handy rifle in their camper or yacht.
The AR-7’s barrel, receiver, and magazine stow inside the hollow plastic stock when disassembled (Holdout -3). Assembly requires 20 seconds and an IQ-based Guns (Rifle) or Armoury (Small Arms) roll. The gun floats in either configuration.
This is probably the most popular modern American bolt-action rifle, used in large numbers by hunters and by military and police marksmen. The standard version comes with a wooden or synthetic stock and open sights. Most people fit a scope (pp. 155-156, p. B412). It’s available in three-dozen different calibers, including .30-06 (Dmg 7d+1 pi) and .300 Remington Ultra Magnum (Dmg 9d+1 pi). The U.S. Secret Service uses it in 7mm Remington Magnum (Dmg 7d+2 pi).
The Model 700-based M40 (1962-1966) – a fine (accurate) weapon fitted with a 10x scope – was a standard USMC sniper rifle: Acc 6+3, Wt. 14.7/0.3, Shots 5+1, Cost $2,100.
The M24 (1988-) is the standard U.S. Army sniper rifle, replacing the M21 (see Springfield M14, p. 115): Acc 6+3, Wt. 13.4/0.3, Shots 6+1, ST 11B†, Cost $5,000. It’s fine (accurate), and features a bipod and a 1.3-lb. 10x scope. Since 1996, it can mount a 4.9-lb. 8.5x night sight (+3 Acc and Night Vision 7, 2xXS/10 hrs.) instead – or since 1997, a 5.5-lb. 10x thermal sight (+3 Acc and Infravision, M/12 hrs.).
All sniper versions are normally issued with matchgrade ammo (+1 Acc).
The Snayperskaya Vintovka Dragunova (“Dragunov’s sniper rifle”) is a scoped, semiautomatic weapon fed by a detachable magazine. It’s intended to provide a squad with more accurate fire than a Kalashnikov assault rifle (p. 114) can deliver, but it isn’t a true sharpshooter’s rifle. The SVD has been made in China and Iraq, and was widely used in Afghanistan, Chechnya, and Nicaragua.
The SVD takes the AK-47’s 0.6-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (Reach 1, 2*). It normally mounts a 1.3-lb. 4x scope with a battery-illuminated reticle (+2 Acc and removes -2 from darkness penalties, XS/100 hrs.). From the 1980s, a 2.9-lb. 5x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 6, 2xXS/10 hrs.) is available to replace this.
The SVDS (1994-) is similar but has a shorter barrel and folding stock for use by paratroops: Dmg 6d+2 pi, Acc 5+2, Range 900/4,000, Wt. 11.4/0.7, Bulk -6*.
In 1959, the West German army adopted the Gewehr 3, a sturdy, recoil-operated automatic rifle. The main production version was the improved G3A3. Most non- Communist countries that didn’t select the FN FAL (p. 115) opted for the G3; many chose it to replace the FAL. It has been made in Burma, Greece, Iran, Mexico, Norway, Pakistan, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, and Turkey – and, for export, in England and France.
The G3 takes a 0.5-lb. knife bayonet (Reach 1). Lighter but flimsier aluminum magazines are available ($36, 1.4 lbs.), as is a 50-round drum (-1 Bulk, $264, 4.3 lbs.). Both a 1.4-lb. 4x scope (+2 Acc) and a 1.3-lb. bipod can be simply clipped on.
A semiautomatic civilian version was sold as the HK91A2 (1976-1989): RoF 3, LC3.
The G3A4 (1964-2004) was a G3 fitted with a retractable stock, for paratroops and mechanized infantry: Wt. 12.1, Bulk -5*, Cost $1,650. The G3KA4 (1983-2004) had a shortened barrel: Dmg 6d pi, Acc 4, Range 800/3,500, Wt. 11.4, Bulk -5*, Cost $1,650.
The PSG1 (1982-) is a purpose-built sniper version, featuring a match-grade barrel, an adjustable shoulder stock, a pistol grip with palm rest, an adjustable trigger, and a 1.3-lb. 6x scope with a battery-illuminated reticle (+2 Acc and removes -1 from darkness penalties, 3xT/100 hrs.): Dmg 7d pi, Acc 6+2, Range 1,100/4,400, Wt. 18.5/0.7, Shots 5+1(3), Bulk -6, Cost $9,100/$26. It’s a fine (accurate) weapon. It lacks iron sights, flash hider, and bipod; it’s intended to be propped on a sandbag or a small, 2.25-lb. tripod (+1 Acc for bracing). It comes with a five-round magazine but can use G3 magazines. Numerous antiterrorist and hostage-rescue units adopted the PSG1.
The HK33 (1965-1972) was the G3A3 scaled for the .223 Remington round: Dmg 4d+2 pi, Range 460/2,900, Wt. 9.5/1.2, RoF 12, Shots 25+1, ST 9†, Rcl 2, Cost $1,200/$28. The HK33A2 (1972-2004), identical in game terms, replaced it. The HK33A2 has been license-made in England, Malaysia, Thailand, and Turkey. A 40-round magazine ($30, 1.4 lbs.) is available for HK33-series rifles. The HK53A3 (1975-2004) was a carbine variant of the HK33A2, and as compact as the MP5A3 submachine gun: Dmg 3d+2 pi, Acc 4, Range 320/2,000, Wt. 7.9/1.2, RoF 12, Shots 25+1, ST 9†, Bulk -4*, Rcl 2, Cost $1,450/$28. Its muzzle flash gives +2 to any Hearing or Vision roll to locate it firing in the dark.
This lever-action rifle is chambered for a unique cartridge similar to the .44 Magnum, but more powerful and better-suited to a hunting rifle. At short range, it has more knockdown power than typical lever-action rounds.
In 1958, ArmaLite submitted the AR-15 assault rifle for U.S. military trials. Developed by Eugene Stoner, it was the first assault rifle chambered for a small-caliber round. It set new standards for the use of such lightweight materials as aluminum and plastics. Colt licensed production in 1959. In 1962, the USAF became the first service to adopt it, issuing it to ground-security forces.
From 1964, the U.S. Army and Marine Corps acquired large numbers of the AR-15 as the M16 (1964-1967), for forces in Vietnam. It was initially welcomed for its light weight. Unfortunately, the combination of nonstandard propellant with the erroneous belief that the rifle didn’t need cleaning – when its direct gas-action actually required extra care – led to serious stoppages (Malf. 16) that couldn’t be cleared by anything less than full disassembly (requires Armoury (Small Arms); see p. B407). The result was a loss of faith in the “Mattel rifle” – so called because of its cheap, toy-like appearance.
The improved M16A1 addressed these problems – notably, it allowed easier clearing of jams – and quickly became the standard U.S. military rifle. Export customers and police agencies soon adopted it as well. Many millions were made. Licensed production took place in the Philippines, Singapore, and South Korea, and it was copied in China and Iran.
The original rifle used a detachable 20-round magazine. From 1967, special-ops units had access to 30-round magazines ($34, 1 lb.), which became standard issue in 1975.
Aftermarket accessories include everything from five-round magazines ($31, 0.35 lb.) to 100-round twin drums ($313, 5 lbs.). A quick-detachable 0.5-lb. bipod is available. The M16A1 takes a 0.6-lb. knife bayonet (Reach 1).
The AR-15 R6000 Sporter (1963-1984) was a semiautomatic version popular with U.S. civilians and police: RoF 3, LC3.
The M16A2 (1984-), the M16A1’s improved successor, entered U.S. military service in the mid-1980s. Changes included a three-round burst-limiter, modified 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition, a new barrel, and new sights: Range 800/3,500, Wt. 8.9/1, RoF 9, Cost $850. It was widely adopted by such federal agencies as the FBI. Many U.S. police departments and export customers also use it. The M16A2 takes a 1-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (Reach 1).
The M16A3 (1992-), adopted by the U.S. Navy, allows full-automatic fire: Range 800/3,500, Wt. 8.9/1, RoF 13, Cost $850. It’s license-made in Canada and Greece.
The M16A4 (1999-) is a further updated model: Range 800/3,500, Wt. 8.9/1, RoF 9, Cost $950. Removing its carrying handle reveals an accessory rail (p. 161) for attaching an optical system. For instance, it can mount a 5-lb. 5x thermal sight (+2 Acc and Infravision, M/12 hrs.). It also features rails on the top, bottom, and sides of the forearm – beneath removable panels – to accommodate accessories. It has been the standard rifle of the USMC since 2001.
The BAR – designed by John Browning’s son, Val, and not to be confused with the Browning M1918 BAR (pp. 112-113) – is a semiautomatic, detachable-magazine hunting rifle, available in a variety of calibers.
The Mini-14 was a handy semiautomatic rifle based on the action of the Springfield M14 (p. 115). In the U.S., it was sold in large numbers to civilians – especially “survivalists” – and to law-enforcement agencies such as the NYPD and Texas Rangers. Alternative magazines took five ($26, 0.25 lb.), 30 ($29, 1.3 lbs.), or 50 rounds (-1 Bulk, $32, 2.2 lbs.). A 90-round drum was also available (-1 Bulk, $312, 3.6 lbs.).
The AC-556 (1976-1994) was a selective-fire version offering single shots, three-round limited bursts, and fullautomatic: RoF 9/12, Cost $790, LC2. It took the M16A1’s 0.6-lb. knife bayonet (Reach 1). It was standard for the boys in the A-Team.
The Muzzelite MZ-14 (1985-) is the AC-556 with a short barrel in an aftermarket plastic shell, converting it to a bullpup configuration without any gunsmithing required: Dmg 4d+2 pi, Acc 4, Range 430/2,700, Wt. 7/1, RoF 9/12, Bulk -4, Cost $750, LC2. This commercially available but futuristic-looking configuration was used in the movie Total Recall.
In the early 1970s, Yisrael Galili adapted the basic Kalashnikov (p. 114) action to fire Western ammunition. The Israel Defense Forces adopted the resulting rifle. It has been widely exported, and is also produced in Colombia, Croatia, Serbia, and South Africa.
The Galil ARM features improved-visibility sights, a folding stock, and an integral bipod that can be used to cut barbed wire without dismounting it from the rifle (treat as wire cutters, p. 25). An extended 50-round magazine ($32, 2.3 lbs.) is available, allowing use as a squad automatic weapon. The gun takes the M16A1’s 0.6-lb. knife bayonet (Reach 1).
The Galil ARM is also available in 7.62x51mm NATO (1976-), which isn’t as popular: Dmg 7d pi, Acc 5, Range 1,000/4,200, Wt. 11.5/2, RoF 10, Shots 25+1(3), ST 10B†, Rcl 3, Cost $1,350/$32.
The Galil SR (1983-) is a semiautomatic sniper version in 7.62x51mm NATO, with 2-lb. 6x scope, bipod, and set trigger: Dmg 7d pi, Acc 5+2, Range 1,000/4,200, Wt. 15.6/1.6, RoF 3, Shots 20+1(3), ST 11B†, Bulk -6*, Rcl 3, Cost $5,600, LC3.
The Avtomat Podvodniy Spetsialniy (“special underwater assault rifle”), in service with the Russian naval SpetsNaz, is the world’s only underwater assault rifle. It was a closely guarded secret until the 1990s. It has a smoothbore barrel and fires long, cavitation-stabilized darts (p. 169) with acceptable performance in air and reasonable results underwater. At the weapon’s maximum operating depth of 130’, multiply distance to the target by 25 – not by 1,000 – to see whether it’s in range (see Firing Underwater, p. 85). Due to the long cartridges, the magazine is rather unwieldy. The APS has a retractable stock.
The Armee-Universal-Gewehr (“army universal rifle”) was developed for the Austrian military, who adopted it as the StG77. A bullpup assault rifle, it’s about 2/3 as long as more conventional patterns. Its distinctive, futuristic silhouette includes a trigger guard so big that the whole hand fits into it and a back-raked carrying handle with an integral 1.5x optical sight. The AUG feeds from 30-round magazines made of clear plastic – or, optionally, 42-rounders ($36, 1.5 lbs.). It has a progressive trigger (see Automatic Weapons, pp. 82-83).
The weapon’s barrel can be exchanged quickly (six seconds), transforming it into any of several variants. These include a carbine with a 14” barrel (Dmg 4d+2 pi, Acc 4, Range 750/2,900, Wt. 8.1) and an automatic rifle with a 24” barrel and a bipod (Dmg 5d+1 pi, Range 850/3,600, Wt. 13.1/1.5, Shots 42+1, ST 9B†, Bulk -5). Treat the latter as a machine gun with a light barrel for the purpose of sustained fire (pp. 85-86). With a conversion kit, the AUG can fire 9x19mm Parabellum ammo instead: Dmg 3d-1 pi, Acc 4, Range 170/1,900, Wt. 8.4/1.1, Shots 25+1.
The AUG can be configured for left- or right-handed use with an Armoury (Small Arms) roll. It’s too short for proper bayonet work (-2 to Spear skill), and the Austrian service model can’t mount a bayonet. Some export versions accept a 0.6-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (Reach 1).
The AUG has been widely exported, and was also produced in Australia and Malaysia. Customers include several armies and police agencies. An early user on the big screen was the maniac Karl in Die Hard. Half a million have been made.
Also known as the SA80, the L85A1 Individual Weapon was a bullpup assault rifle adopted by the British Army. The gun performed well on the range in England (and was quite accurate) but abysmally under less-than-ideal conditions. After-action reports on its service during the 1991 Gulf War and other operations were bitter, citing frequent breaks, stoppages, and other malfunctions. Some 390,000 weapons were made.
The L85A1 uses detachable M16 magazines. It takes a 0.65-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (-2 to Spear skill, Reach 1) of cheap quality. The included 1-lb. tritium-illuminated 4x scope (+2 Acc and removes -2 from darkness penalties) is sometimes replaced by a 3.1-lb. 4x image-intensifying sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 7, 2xXS/100 hrs.).
The L86A1 Light Support Weapon (1985-1994) was the squad automatic version, with a longer barrel and an integral bipod: Dmg 5d+1 pi, Range 850/3,600, Wt. 14.5, ST 9B†, Bulk -5, Cost $1,500. Treat it as a machine gun with a light barrel for the purpose of sustained fire (pp. 85-86).
The improved L85A2 and L86A2 (2001-2003) are more reliable (Malf. 17) and projected to stay in service until 2015.
The Barrett “Light Fifty” is a heavy, recoil-operated gun. Its weight, action, and an excellent muzzle brake tame the recoil of the big .50 Browning to manageable proportions… but the shooter still has to fire it from the bipod while prone, or from a vehicle mount. The military employs it mainly for long-range sniping and the destruction of soft-skinned vehicles. It’s also useful for the occasional shot at dinosaur.
The rifle is popular with civilian shooters and was adopted by most Western special-ops units. In 1991, the U.S. Marine Corps introduced it as the M82A1 Special Application Scoped Rifle (SASR). More than 10,000 were made.
The M82A1 lacks iron sights; to take advantage of its range, a powerful scope is necessary. The weapon table assumes a 2.1-lb. 10x scope, as used by the U.S. military. Since 1999, it can mount a 5.5-lb. 12.2x night sight (+3 Acc and Night Vision 7, 2xXS/10 hrs.). It normally fires matchgrade ammo (+1 Acc) or APHEX rounds (Dmg 6dx2(2) pi with a 1d-2 [1d-2] cr ex follow-up).
The original M82 (1985-1987) was used mostly by specialized long-range target shooters: Wt. 39/4.7, Shots 11+1, Cost $5,500. Only 115 were made.
The M107 (2003-), adopted by the U.S. Army to replace earlier .50-caliber rifles, features such improvements as iron sights for backup, a full-length accessory rail (p. 161) on top, and a 1.4-lb. 4.5-14x variable scope: Wt. 32.6/4.1, Cost $14,800. It can be fitted with a 4.5-lb. sound suppressor (-4 to Hearing, -2 Bulk) and a 5.5-lb. 10x thermal sight (+3 Acc and Infravision, M/12 hrs.).
The Avtomat Spetsialniy (“special assault rifle”) is based on the Kalashnikov (p. 114) action. Known as the Val (“Shaft”), it features a folding stock and a built-in baffle suppressor (-2 to Hearing), and fires a subsonic APHC round as standard. It’s widely used by Russian special-ops units.
The Vintovka Snayperskaya Spetsialniy (1987-) or VSS Vintorez (“Thread-Cutter”) is a “special sniper rifle” variant with a fixed skeleton stock and a 1.3-lb. 4x scope: Dmg 3d pi, Acc 5+2, Wt. 7.8/0.8, Shots 10+1(3), Bulk -5, Cost $1,000. It feeds from a 10-round magazine but can use the 20-round magazine of the AS, and vice versa. It fires a match-grade cartridge (included in Acc). The scope can be replaced by a 2-lb. 4x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 6, XS/10 hrs.).
The Accuracy International PM (1986-1990) was a modern bolt-action sniper rifle with synthetic stock, detachable 10-round magazine, folding bipod, set trigger, and 6x scope: Acc 6+2. Some 2,000 were made. In 1986, the British Army adopted it as the L96A1, replacing the Enfield L42A1 (see Enfield SMLE Mk III, p. 112).
The improved if basically similar AW sniper rifle appeared in 1990, developed in cooperation with the Swedish army. It features a 10x scope and a new barrel. It normally fires match-grade ammo (+1 Acc); the Swedes issue it with an APDS round (Dmg 9d(2) pi-, Range 1,500/6,300). The AW has been widely exported.
The AWM (1990-) is chambered for the .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge: Dmg 9d+1 pi, Acc 6+2, Range 1,300/5,500, Wt. 19.8/0.8, Shots 4+1(3), ST 12B†, Bulk -7, Cost $5,100. The British Army calls it the L115A1 Long- Range Rifle.
The AWM is also available in .300 Winchester Magnum, which is more popular than the larger caliber. The German army adopted the AWM-F (1990-) – a variant with a folding stock and a 2-lb. 3-12x scope – as the G22: Dmg 8d+2 pi, Acc 6+3, Range 1,600/6,600, Wt. 20.1/0.8, Shots 5+1(3), ST 10B†, Bulk -7*, Rcl 2, Cost $5,800. It’s issued with a detachable 2-lb. baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk).
By 1962, Colt had begun development of several short-barreled, telescoping-stock carbine versions of the AR-15 rifle (see Colt M16A1, p. 117) – weapons commonly known as the CAR-15. A few of these saw extensive service with special units during and after the Vietnam War, but it wasn’t until 1994 that the U.S. Army finally adopted two variants with 14.5” barrels in large numbers. The M4A1 became the standard small arm for all U.S. military special-ops units, while the similar M4 – restricted to three-round limited bursts (RoF 9) – was acquired for light infantry, especially airborne troops. Since the late 1990s, American SWAT teams have used similar weapons extensively. The design has also been licensed to Canada and Greece.
Both M4 and M4A1 feature a detachable carrying handle with an accessory rail (p. 161) beneath. The two weapons take the M16A2’s 1-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (Reach 1). They can mount a 0.5-lb. collimating sight (+1 skill, T/1,000 hrs.) or a 5-lb. 5x thermal sight (+2 Acc and Infravision, M/12 hrs.).
The XM177E1 Commando (1967-1968), with a 10.5” barrel, was widely used by U.S. Army special-ops units in Vietnam: Dmg 4d pi, Range 420/2,600, Wt. 6.8/0.7, Shots 20+1, Cost $650. The short barrel resulted in excessive muzzle blast (+2 to Hearing and Vision rolls to locate the weapon firing in the dark). Only 2,815 were made.
The CAR-15A1 R653 Carbine (1971-1984) had a 16.1” barrel: Range 460/2,900, Wt. 6.8/1, Cost $650. It was extensively exported, and licensed to the Philippines.
The CAR-15 R6001 Sporter Carbine (1978- 1985) was a popular commercial variant with a 16.1” barrel: Range 460/2,900, Wt. 6.8/1, RoF 3, Cost $650, LC3.
The CAR-15 R635 SMG (1985-) is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum: Dmg 3d-1 pi, Range 170/1,900, Wt. 7/1.3, Shots 32+1. Some U.S. police agencies acquired it.
The CAR-15A2 R733 Commando (1988-1996) had a 10.5” barrel: Dmg 4d pi, Range 600/2,500, Wt. 6.4/1. It features prominently in the bank robbery scene of the film Heat.
The CAR-15A3 R6920 Government (1994-) is a semiautomatic version of the M4 with a 16.1” barrel, widely used by U.S. police agencies: Wt. 7/1, RoF 3, LC3. Many manufacturers – including ArmaLite, Bushmaster, and S&W – make almost identical carbines.
The M4A1 SOPMOD (1998-), used by special-ops units, is the M4A1 fitted with four accessory rails (p. 161) on the handguard: Wt. 7.6/1, Cost $1,200. It can use a 1.4-lb. baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk).
The MK 18 MOD 0 (2000-), adopted by the U.S. Navy SEALs and Coast Guard, is the M4A1 SOPMOD with a 10.3” barrel: Dmg 4d pi, Range 600/2,500, Wt. 6.8/1, Cost $1,200.
The Gewehr 36 is the latest assault rifle of the German military. It has a folding stock and a conventional layout, kept light and rugged by the extensive use of synthetics. It uses translucent plastic magazines (which can be clipped side-by-side, p. 155), and takes the AK-74’s 0.6-lb. multipurpose bayonet (Reach 1). A quick-detachable 0.5-lb. bipod is available. The G36 is widely exported, and is produced under license in Spain.
A unique feature of the G36 is its dual optical sights: it has a non-magnifying collimating sight for snapshots at short range (+1 skill, XS/60 hrs.), below which is an integral 3x scope for aimed shots at longer distances (+1 Acc). A 2.6- lb. add-on night sight (Night Vision 7, 2xS/90 hrs.) or a 5.5- lb. add-on thermal sight (Infravision, 6xS/12 hrs.) can be attached in front of the scope. Only the scope is functional while these additions are in place, as the collimating sight is obstructed. Variants have open sights and an accessory rail (p. 161) instead of the optics.
German and other special-ops units, as well as some American SWAT teams, use the G36K (1997-) assault carbine, which has a shortened barrel: Dmg 4d+2 pi, Acc 4+1, Range 650/2,700, Wt. 8.3/1. It can be fitted with a 1.4-lb. baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). Variants have an accessory rail instead of the sights.
Even more compact, the G36C (2001-) approaches a submachine gun in handiness: Dmg 4d pi, Acc 4, Range 600/2,500, Wt. 7.2/1, Bulk -4*, Cost $1,200. It features an accessory rail instead of the dual optics.
The 95 Shi Zidong Buqiang (“automatic rifle type 1995”), or QBZ95, is the latest Chinese service rifle. A bullpup design with a large carrying handle, it’s chambered for a unique round and offers three-round limited bursts in addition to semi- and full-automatic fire. It takes the M16A2’s 1-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (-2 to Spear skill, Reach 1) and can be fitted with a 1-lb. 3x scope (+1 Acc).
The QBZ95B (1997-) carbine variant has a 12.8” barrel: Dmg 4d+1 pi, Acc 4, Wt. 7.8/1.4, Bulk -3. The QBB95 (1997-) is an automatic rifle with 21.9” barrel, bipod, and 75-round drum: Dmg 5d+1 pi, Wt. 11.4/2.9, Shots 75+1(5), ST 9B†, Bulk -5. Treat the latter as a machine gun with a light barrel for the purpose of sustained fire (pp. 85-86).
The Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle (SCAR) is a new family of rifles for the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM). The basic weapon – the SCAR Light or SCAR-L – has a 13.8” barrel, an adjustable folding stock, an optional 0.5-lb. collimating sight (+1 skill), and accessory rails (p. 161). All variants can be fitted with a 1-lb. sound suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). The MK 16 MOD 0 Close Quarters Carbine (CQC) has a 10” barrel: Dmg 4d pi, Range 600/2,500, Wt. 7.7/1. The MK 16 MOD 0 Sniper Variant (SV) has an 18” barrel, and a detachable 1-lb. 4x scope replaces the collimating sight: Dmg 5d pi, Acc 5+2, Range 800/3,500, Wt. 9.6/1, Bulk -5*.
The MK 17 MOD 0 or SCAR-H is the basic rifle chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO: Dmg 6d pi, Range 800/3,500, Wt. 8.8/1.6, Shots 20+1, ST 10†, Bulk -5*, Rcl 3.
The MK 17 MOD 0 CQC has a 10” barrel: Dmg 5d+1 pi, Range 700/3,000, Wt. 8.4/1.6, Shots 20+1, ST 10†, Rcl 3.
The MK 17 MOD 0 SV has a 19.7” barrel, and a detachable 1-lb. 4x scope replaces the collimating sight: Dmg 7d pi, Acc 5+2, Range 1,000/4,200, Wt. 10.2/1.6, Shots 20+1, ST 10†, Bulk -5*, Rcl 3.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Brown Bess, .75 Flintlock 4d+2 pi++ 2 100/1,100 10.2/0.09 1 1(40) 11† -6 4 $100 3 [1] 5 North West Gun, .50 Flintlock 4d pi+ 2 100/1,100 10/0.035 1 1(40) 10† -6 4 $75 3 [1] 5 Charleville Mle 1777, 17.5mm Flintlock 4d+1 pi++ 2 110/1,200 9.3/0.087 1 1(40) 10† -7 4 $150 3 [2]
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Kentucky Rifle, .45 Flintlock 4d-1 pi+ 3 110/1,200 7/0.025 1 1(60) 9† -6 3 $350 3 [1] 5 Baker Rifle, .625 Flintlock 3d pi++ 3 80/900 9/0.062 1 1(60) 9† -6 3 $300 3 [1] 5 Hall M1819, .54 Flintlock 3d+1 pi+ 3 90/1,000 10.3/0.044 1 1(5) 10† -6 3 $330 3 [1] 5 Dreyse M.1841, 15.43x54mm 3d pi++ 3 400/2,000 10.9/0.085 1 1(3) 10† -6 3 $300 3 [1] 5 Enfield P/1853, .577 Caplock 3d+2 pi+ 3 120/1,200 9.3/0.086 1 1(15) 10† -6 4 $285 3 [1] 5 Volcanic, .38 Volcanic 2d-1 pi 2 70/800 8/0.45 2 25+1(3i) 8† -5 2 $750 3 [1] 5 Spencer M1860, .56-56 Spencer 3d+2 pi+ 3 180/2,000 8.8/0.5 1 7+1(16) 9† -5 3 $450 3 5 Remington Rolling Block, .45-70 5d pi+ 4 470/3,000 9.2/0.086 1 1(3) 10† -6 4 $650 3 5 Martini-Henry Mk I, .450 MH 5d pi+ 4 500/3,200 8.9/0.11 1 1(3) 10† -6 4 $550 3 5 Springfield M1873, .45-70 5d pi+ 3 470/3,000 9.2/0.086 1 1(3) 10† -6 4 $570 3 5 Winchester M1873, .44-40 3d+1 pi+ 3 300/2,200 8.9/0.6 2 15+1(2i) 9† -5 2 $420 3 5 Sharps Model 1874, .50-90 5d pi+ 4 360/3,900 10.7/0.1 1 1(3) 11† -6 4 $1,000 3 5 Greener Elephant Rifle, 8-bore 6d+2 pi++ 4 180/1,800 12/0.5 1 2(3i) 13† -5 7 $3,000 3 [3] 6 Lebel Mle 1886, 8x50mmR 6d pi 5 900/3,900 10/0.5 1 8+2(3i) 10† -6 4 $600 3 6 Mosin-Nagant PV-1891, 7.62x54mmR 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,800 9.2/0.3 1 5(3) 10† -6 4 $700 3 6 Winchester M1894, .30-30 6d pi 5 900/3,700 7.2/0.3 2 5+1(2i) 9† -5 3 $450 3 6 Mauser Gew98, 7.92x57mm 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,600 9.5/0.3 1 5(3) 11† -5 4 $900 3 6 H&H Royal Double-Express, .600 NE 5dx2 pi++ 5 800/4,600 16.4/0.4 1 2(3i) 14† -7 7 $9,500 3 [3, 4, 5] 6 Remington Model 8, .35 Remington 5d+2 pi 5 800/3,500 7.9/0.3 3 5(3) 9† -5 3 $800 3 6 Springfield M1903, .30-06 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,500 8.8/0.3 1 5(3) 9† -5 3 $900 3 6 Arisaka Meiji 38 Shiki, 6.5x50mmSR 6d pi 5 600/3,200 9.4/0.3 1 5(3) 10† -6 3 $700 3 6 SMLE Mk III, .303 6d+2 pi 5 800/3,300 9.2/0.6 1 10(5) 10† -5 3 $700 3 6 Mauser T-Gew18, 13x92mmSR 5dx2(2) pi 5 2,100/8,800 40/0.26 1 1(3i) 16B† -8 6 $10,000 1 [3] 6 Browning M1918 BAR, .30-06 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,500 17.1/1.6 9 20(3) 10† -6 2 $2,300/$31 1 6 Springfield M1 Garand, .30-06 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,500 10.1/0.5 3 8(3) 10† -5 3 $510 3 6 Winchester Model 70, .30-06 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,500 7.8/0.3 1 5(3i) 10† -5 4 $750 3 6 Steyr-Solothurn S18-1000, 20x138mmB 6dx2(2) pi++ 5+1 2,100/8,000 117/12.1 1 10(5) 18B† -11 3 $25,000/$62 1 [3] 6 Winchester M1, .30 M1 4d+1 pi 4 330/2,100 5.8/0.6 3 15+1(3) 8† -4 2 $400/$27 3 7 Rheinmetall FG42, 7.92x57mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 11/1.8 15 20+1(3) 11B† -5 3 $2,000/$31 2 7 Haenel StG44, 7.92x33mm 5d pi 4 500/3,100 13.2/2 8 30(3) 9† -5 2 $850/$31 2 7 TOZ SKS-45, 7.62x39mm 5d+1 pi 4 500/3,100 8.9/0.4 3 10(3) 9† -5 3 $350 3 7 Izhmash AK-47, 7.62x39mm 5d+1 pi 4 500/3,100 11.3/1.8 10 30(3) 9† -5 2 $450/$30 2 7 FN FAL, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 11/1.7 11 20+1(3) 10† -6 3 $1,200/$31 2 7 Springfield M14, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 10.9/1.6 12 20+1(3) 10† -5 3 $600/$31 2 7 ArmaLite AR-7, .22 LR 1d+2 pi- 3 80/1,400 3.1/0.3 3 8+1(3) 7† -4 2 $150/$25 3 [3] 7 Remington Model 700, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 7.8/0.3 1 5(3i) 11† -5 4 $450 3 7 Izhmash SVD, 7.62x54mmR 7d pi 5+2 1,000/4,200 10.1/0.7 3 10+1(3) 10† -6 3 $900/$28 2 7 H&K G3A3, 7.62x51mm 6d+2 pi 5 850/3,750 11.4/1.7 10 20+1(3) 10† -5 3 $1,500/$31 2 7 Marlin M444, .444 Marlin 7d-1 pi+ 4 450/2,900 7.7/0.2 2 4+1(2i) 10† -5 4 $650 3 7 Colt M16A1, .223 Remington 5d pi 5 500/3,200 7.2/0.7 13 20+1(3) 8† -5 2 $550/$34 2 7 FN BAR Magnum, .300 WM 8d+1 pi 5 1,600/6,600 8.8/0.4 3 4+1(3) 10† -6 4 $890 3 7 AAI XM19, 5.6x57mmB 3d+1 pi- 5 750/4,700 7.4/1.5 9#/10 60+1(5) 8† -5 2 $1,500/$255 2 7 Ruger Mini-14, .223 Remington 5d pi 5 500/3,200 7.5/0.9 3 20+1(3) 8† -5 2 $655/$28 3 7 IMI Galil ARM, .223 Remington 5d-1 pi 4 480/3,000 11.3/1.8 11 35+1(3) 9† -5* 2 $1,100/$30 2 7 Izhmash AK-74, 5.45x39mm 4d+2 pi 4 440/3,000 9.1/1.2 11 30+1(3) 9† -5 2 $400/$28 2 7 TsNIITochMash APS, 5.66x39mm 5d imp 2 750/3,200 8.2/2.8 10 26+1(3) 9† -5* 3 $750/$33 2 8 Steyr AUG A1, 5.56x45mm 5d pi 5 800/3,500 9/1.1 11 30+1(3) 9† -4 2 $1,250/$34 2 8 Enfield L85A1, 5.56x45mm 5d pi 5+2 800/3,500 11.2/1 13 30+1(3) 9† -4 2 $1,300/$34 2 [1] 8 Barrett M82A1, .50 Browning 6dx2 pi+ 6+3 1,700/6,500 35/4.4 1 10+1(3) 13B† -7 3 $7,775/$38 2 8 TsNIITochMash AS Val, 9x39mm 3d(2) pi- 4 400/1,700 7/1.4 13 20+1(3) 8† -5* 2 $750/$35 2 8 AI AW, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 6+3 1,000/4,200 15/1 1 10+1(3) 11B† -6 3 $4,700/$50 3 [4] 8 H&K G11, 4.73x33mm 4d+2 pi 5 500/3,000 9.3/1 9#/7 45+1(5) 9† -4 2 $2,100/$32 2 [6] 8 Voere VEC91, 5.7x26mm 5d(0.5) pi+ 5 480/3,400 6.2/0.2 1 5+1(3) 8† -5 2 $2,500/$26 3 [6, 7] 8 Colt M4A1, 5.56x45mm 4d+2 pi 4 750/2,900 7.3/1 15 30+1(3) 9† -4 2 $950/$34 2 [8] 8 H&K G36, 5.56x45mm 5d pi 5+1 800/3,500 9/1.1 12 30+1(3) 9† -5* 2 $1,100/$34 2 [9] 8 NORINCO QBZ95, 5.8x42mm 5d pi 5 800/3,600 8.6/1.4 11 30+1(3) 9† -4 2 $475/$34 2 8 FN MK 16 MOD 0, 5.56x45mm 4d+2 pi 4 750/2,900 8/1 9 30+1(3) 9† -4* 2 $1,500/$34 2 [8]
Notes:
[1] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
[2] Very Unreliable. Malfunctions on 15+ (see p. B407).
[3] Lacks sling swivels (p. 154).
[4] Fine (accurate).
[5] Always decorated (see Styling, p. 10).
[6] Very Reliable. Won’t malfunction unless lack of maintenance lowers Malf. (see p. B407).
[7] Needs power source (see description).
[8] Accessory rail (p. 161).
[9] Integral collimating sight (p. 156).
Taking into account all of its many models, the Kalashnikov rifle has probably been made in greater numbers than any other gun. Estimates of worldwide production exceed 90 million weapons. It was principally responsible for the elimination of the African elephant herds; it appears on the national flag of at least one country (Mozambique) and in the insignia of numerous political factions and terrorist groups; and even people with only minimal familiarity with firearms can usually recognize its silhouette at a glance. In modern African trouble spots, a loaded, second-source, fourth-hand AK can be had for as little as $5. A brand-new gun costs $90 from the factory . . . if you take a few thousand. In the U.S., semiautomatic versions sell for around $300. All of the variants below are similar in operation; there’s no familiarity penalty to go from one to another.
The Avtomat Kalashnikova obrazets 1947g (“Kalashnikov’s automatic rifle model 1947”) was the original rifle version, with a heavy, milled receiver and the distinctive curved magazine. By the mid-1950s, it had been exported in large numbers to Communist forces everywhere, and licensed to numerous states, including Bulgaria, China, East Germany, Finland, Hungary, Poland, and Romania. Nine million were made in Russia alone. Pakistani gunsmiths still sell hand-made copies today.
The AK-47 takes a 0.6-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (Reach 1). It’s often loaded with API ammo (Dmg 4d-1(2) pi- inc).
The AKS-47 (1951-1960) had a folding stock: Wt. 10.6, Bulk -5*.
The RPK (1955-1988) had a longer barrel and a bipod: Dmg 6d pi, Acc 5, Range 600/3,900, Wt. 13/2.5, Shots 40+1(3), ST 9B†, Cost $900/$32. There was also a 75- round drum (-1 Bulk, $264, 4.6 lbs.). Both magazines work in the AK-47.
The modernized AKM (1960-1985) had a cheaper and lighter stamped receiver: Wt. 8.7. The AKM became even more widespread than the AK-47, and is the variant most often encountered. Many continue to call it the “AK-47.” It has been made in Bulgaria, East Germany, Egypt, India, Iraq, North Korea, Poland, Romania, and Yugoslavia.
The AKMS (1960-1985) had a folding stock: Wt. 9.4, Bulk -5*.
The AK-103 (1993-) is the latest model, with a plastic folding stock and plastic magazine: Wt. 9.1/1.6, Bulk -5*.
This was basically an improved AKM chambered for a smaller-caliber cartridge. The most readily apparent differences were a prominent muzzle brake and a new synthetic-covered magazine (originally orange, later brown or black). The muzzle brake was effective but increased muzzle blast (+2 to any Hearing or Vision roll to locate an AK-74 firing in the dark). Some 6.5 million were made, and it was licensed to Bulgaria, East Germany, North Korea, Poland, and Romania.
The AK-74 takes a 0.6-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (Reach 1). A 60-round high-density magazine ($40, 2.7 lbs.) became available in the 1990s. The AKS-74 (1975-1990) had a folding stock: Wt. 8.8, Bulk -5*.
The AKS-74U (1979-1992) was a carbine for service with vehicle crews and special-ops forces (terrorist Osama bin Laden seems to favor it, too). It had a folding stock and a much shorter barrel: Dmg 4d-1 pi, Acc 3, Range 360/2,500, Wt. 6.7, RoF 13, ST 8†, Bulk -4*. It could be fitted with a 1.4-lb. wiper suppressor (-1 to Hearing, -1 Bulk, lasts 90 shots), which required the use of subsonic ammunition (p. 165): Dmg 2d-1 pi, Range 250/1,600, and the total Hearing penalty is -2.
The modernized AK-74M (1989-) is currently in service with Russian front-line units. It has a plastic folding stock: Wt. 8.3, Bulk -5*. It can mount a 2-lb. 4x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 5, XS/10 hrs).
The RPK-74 (1976-1990) was a squad automatic version with a longer barrel and a bipod: Dmg 5d+1 pi, Acc 5, Range 650/4,200, Wt. 12.2/1.8, Shots 45+1(3), ST 9B†, Cost $900/$36. There was also a 90-round drum (-1 Bulk, $262, 4.6 lbs.). Both magazines work in the AK-74. The AK-101 (1993-) is chambered for the 5.56x45mm NATO round: Dmg 4d+2 pi, Wt. 8.3/1.3, Bulk -5*.
Weapons firing flechette ammunition (SAPFSDS, p. 168) appear at TL7-8.
The XM19 Serial Flechette Rifle (SFR) was a conventionally styled assault rifle that fired saboted flechettes from a smoothbore barrel. Early prototypes used a 60-round drum magazine; later versions, a conventional curved 50-round magazine. It offered single shots, three-round high-cyclic controlled bursts (p. 83), and full-automatic fire.
Intended to replace the M14 (p. 115) and M16A1 (p. 117), the XM19 program was terminated in 1972 due to unreliability and excessive muzzle blast (+2 to Hearing and Vision rolls to locate it firing in the dark). Only 30 weapons were made.
The principal drawback of the muzzleloading rifle for military service is its slow loading speed. The bullet has to fit the bore tightly in order to take the rifling. However, a tight-fitting ball is difficult to load – especially in a bore fouled by firing.
In 1847, French army officer Claude-Étienne Minié invented a hollow-based, conoidal bullet. It was smaller than the bore for quicker and easier loading (see Reloading Your Gun, p. 86). In the hollow base was a clay plug. The pressure of firing forced the plug into the base, expanding the lead to take the rifling. It was later shown that the plug was unnecessary – the propellant gases alone were sufficient to expand the base.
Minié bullets – invariably called “minny balls” in America – were the standard solid projectiles in the great mid-19th century wars (Crimean War, Franco- Austrian War, American Civil War, and Indian Mutiny). However, its battlefield reign was short. Many armies adopted it in the early 1850s, but replaced it by the 1870s when new cartridge breechloaders appeared.
The drilling (“triplet”), invented in 1891, became the customary hunting weapon of Central Europe during the early 20th century. It traditionally consisted of a doublebarreled, side-by-side shotgun with a rifle barrel underneath, but some variants featured two rifle barrels and a single shotgun barrel, three identical barrels, or even guns of three different calibers! A drilling allowed a hunter to carry a single gun yet be prepared for widely different game.
The Sauer M30 is a typical German drilling. It was made in 1930-1944. It has twin 12G 2.5” barrels (Dmg 1d-1(0.5) pi-, Acc 3, Range 20/350, RoF 2×109, Shots 2(3i), ST 10†, Rcl 1/5) with a 9.3x74mmR barrel below (Dmg 7d+2 pi, Acc 5, Range 1,000/4,400, RoF 1, Shots 1(3i), ST 10†, Rcl 5). It weighs 7.8 lbs. loaded, has Bulk - 5, costs $2,000, and is easily disassembled (Holdout -3).
In 1941-1942, some 2,500 of these weapons were acquired as survival guns for Luftwaffe aircraft (p. 237) – primarily for those operating over North Africa. The drilling was issued in a gun case (p. 160) that weighed 32 lbs. filled, including 20 rifle rounds, 20 shotgun slugs, and 25 shotshells.
The Tryekhstvolniy Pistolet obrazets 1982g (“threebarreled pistol model 1982”) is a survival weapon designed for Russian cosmonauts. The Soviet air force introduced it in 1985 to be carried on spacecraft, longrange bombers, and reconnaissance aircraft.
The TP-82 has twin 32G barrels (Dmg 1d-2(0.5) pi-, Acc 2, Range 15/300, RoF 2×76, Shots 2(3i), ST 9†, Rcl 1/3) with a 5.45x39mm barrel below (Dmg 4d pi, Acc 3, Range 390/2,700, RoF 1, Shots 1(3i), ST 8†, Rcl 2). It weighs 3.9 lbs. loaded, has Bulk -3, and costs $750. It has a pistol grip (if fired one-handed: ST 11, Rcl 3), but it’s designed to be fitted with a detachable 1.8-lb. shoulder stock (+1 Acc, -1 Bulk). This stock is actually a 1.4-lb., triangular machete (p. 197) in a 0.4-lb. sheath. The TP-82 is issued in a 7.5-lb. kit with stock, pistol belt, 11 hollowpoint rifle rounds, 10 shotshells, and five red flare shells (burn 10 seconds).
Manufacturers try to introduce small arms that fire caseless ammo (pp. 164-165) at late TL6, but the first successful designs are TL8.
The revolutionary Gewehr 11 was the culmination of more than 25 years of work and five decades of wishful thinking. Approved for service following successful field trials – making it the first small arm chambered for caseless ammo to achieve such approval – it never entered production, a victim of financial problems and the political situation after Germany’s reunification. Fewer than 100 weapons reached various stages of development. The G11 was also one of several designs that competed unsuccessfully to become the U.S. military’s Advanced Combat Rifle.
The G11 was a boxy bullpup, sheathed entirely in smooth, black plastic. It looked clumsy, but had good ergonomics and little recoil. When fired, the entire mechanism – including magazine, breech and barrel – would “float” back within the receiver, into the empty stock. The pistol grip, located at the center of gravity, had a knuckle-protecting loop. The 45-round magazine was inserted from the top front, parallel to the barrel, rounds pointing down. The revolutionary breech rotated each round 90°, aligning it with the barrel. Full-auto fire took advantage of the gun’s light recoil and low cyclic rate (RoF 7), but the standard fire mode was three-round high-cyclic controlled bursts (p. 83).
The G11’s detachable carrying handle had an integral 1x optical sight for quick target acquisition. This could be replaced with a night sight (p. 156). An attachment point below the gun’s muzzle accepted a 1-lb. multi-purpose bayonet (-2 to Spear skill, Reach 1), a bipod, or a targeting laser.
The G11’s “telescoped caseless” rounds consisted of projectiles encased in small, rectangular blocks of high explosive, and resembled orange wax crayons. The magazines were rather bulky. For this reason, rails mounted two magazines alongside the one in use. Additional ammo was to be issued in sealed, 15- round reload units, to refill the three magazines after they run dry. (Emptying a reload unit into a magazine requires three Ready maneuvers.)
The first small arm chambered for caseless ammunition actually to enter production, the VEC91 was intended for civilian hunters. It hasn’t been very successful, being too expensive for the limited gain over more conventional guns. The weapon is a traditional bolt-action rifle with a wooden stock and a detachable box magazine… except for its electrically fired caseless ammo and the batteries in the stock (2xT/5,000 shots). The electric ignition guarantees instantaneous firing with no moving parts, increasing accuracy. It fires a hollow-point round as standard.
The submachine gun (SMG) is a TL6 development inspired by trench warfare, intended to give infantry a light automatic weapon for close-quarters combat. Like the pistolcarbine, the immediate forerunner of the SMG, the SMG uses low-powered rounds. This keeps weight down and allows accurate close-range fire. The SMG was initially dismissed as a weapon fit only for police and gangsters. By late TL6, it’s an important military small arm, invaluable for house-to-house fighting and jungle warfare, and issued to airborne troops and vehicle crews.
Starting in early TL7, the assault rifle slowly replaces the SMG as a military weapon. The SMG continues to see widespread service into TL8 with police and security forces, however. Submachine guns at TL8 largely resemble the original archetypes but use lighter materials, offer better ergonomics, and have a wider selection of accessories.
A uniquely TL8 innovation is the personal defense weapon (PDW). Similar to the SMG in size and use, the PDW was developed in response to body armor, its high-velocity, small-caliber rounds offering increased penetration.
The Maschinenpistole Modell 1918/I was the first SMG in form and function, and the earliest to see substantial use. The German army introduced it in WWI, and most other SMGs of the 1920s and 1930s were based on it. The original weapon employed the 32-round “snail-drum” magazine developed for the Luger LP08 pistol-carbine (see Luger P08, p. 98), inserted from the left-hand side. After WWI, the guns were rebuilt to take conventional box magazines holding 20 ($28, 1 lb.) or 32 rounds ($29, 1.5 lb.); this improves Malf. to 17. Some 35,000 were made, and German police were issued the MP18/I until the end of WWII.
The gun’s designer, Hugo Schmeisser, developed it into the Haenel MP28/II (1928-1938), capable of selective fire and using 32-round box magazines: Wt. 10.3/1.5, Shots 32, RoF 8. An optional 50-round magazine ($32, 2.3 lbs.) was available. Users included Belgium, Bolivia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and the Waffen-SS. Many were exported to China in 7.63x25mm Mauser (Dmg 3d pi-, Wt. 10.2/1.4, RoF 10), while Spain bought it in 9x23mm Bergmann-Bayard (Wt. 10.3/1.5, RoF 8).
Early in WWII, George Lanchester of Sterling Armaments (England) made some cosmetic changes to the MP28/II. The Royal Navy adopted his version in 9x19mm Parabellum as the Lanchester Mk I (1941-1943): Wt. 11.9/2.3, RoF 10, Shots 50. The Lanchester Mk I Star (1943), in use until the 1960s, could only fire full-automatic (RoF 10!). Some 80,000 were made in England, and more in India. The Lanchester took the SMLE rifle’s 1.3-lb. sword bayonet (Reach 1).
General John Thompson – who coined the term “submachine gun” – began designing his famous weapon during WWI, but it wasn’t completed until 1921. The “Tommy gun” was adopted by the U.S. Coast Guard, prison guards, and the police departments of most major American cities. U.S. Marines employed a few hundred guns in China, Nicaragua, and at home (to protect mail trains). In the hands of such high-profile criminals as Al Capone and John Dillinger, it became known as the weapon of mobsters and bank robbers – the “Chicago Piano” or “Chopper.” The IRA used the Thompson in their fight against the British. Small numbers were exported to police forces such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Shanghai Police. Only 15,000 were made, but it was widely copied in China from the late 1920s. The original M1921 had excellent sights and was quite accurate. It could use both box and drum magazines. The box held 20 rounds ($30, 1.3 lbs.); the drum, either 50 rounds (in table) or 100 rounds (Malf. 16, -1 Bulk, $274, 8.5 lbs.). It was typically sold with four 20-rounders and a 50- round drum. An 18-round magazine ($30, 1.2 lbs.) was made for use with a birdshot round for riot control: Dmg 1d-3(0.5) pi-, Range 12/230, RoF 13×120, Shots 18+1(3), Rcl 1. Without the detachable 1.75-lb. shoulder stock, the Thompson could be concealed in a violin case or under a coat: Acc 3, ST 12†, Bulk -4, Rcl 3. The M1928 (1928-1938), designed for the U.S. Navy, had a reduced cyclic rate: RoF 11. The FBI officially adopted it in 1935.
The simplified M1928A1 (1938-1942) was finally adopted in large numbers by the British and U.S. military: Acc 3, Wt. 12/1.3, RoF 11, Shots 20+1(3). Some were delivered to France, Sweden, and Yugoslavia before WWII. Almost 600,000 were made, most for the British.
The first Thompson to see widespread service with the U.S. military was the M1 (1942-1943), further simplified for wartime production and issued with a 30-round magazine: Acc 3, Wt. 12.2/1.6, RoF 11, Shots 30+1(3), Cost $750/$32. It lacked the foregrip and couldn’t use drums, and the butt stock was no longer removable. The similar M1A1 (1942- 1944) superseded the M1. Over 824,000 M1 and M1A1s were made and widely exported.
Production resumed in 1975, but most new weapons are semi-auto only and fitted with lengthened barrels to comply with U.S. laws. The M1927A-1 (1975-) has Dmg 2d+2 pi+, Range 160/1,800, Wt. 12.6/1.6, RoF 3, Shots 30+1(3), Cost $1,150/$32, LC3.
This accurate, well-made, and reliable SMG was called the Suomi (“Finland”) by its designer Aimo Lahti. The Finnish army standardized it as the Konepistooli malli 1931 (“submachine gun model 1931”). During WWII, it was exported to Bulgaria and Croatia. German Waffen-SS units and Hitler’s bodyguards also used it. Some 62,000 were produced, and it was license-made in Denmark, Sweden, and Switzerland.
The KP/31 originally came with a 20-round box magazine ($28, 1.3 lbs.) or a 40-round drum ($255, 3.1 lbs.). In 1936, the famous 70-round drum was adopted (in table). A Swedish 50-round high-density magazine ($34, 2.6 lbs.) became available in 1941.
In 1938, the German military adopted the Maschinenpistole Modell 1938 (1939-1941), or MP38, which introduced several firsts – including a folding metal stock and the use of significant amounts of plastic. Originally intended for parachutists and tank crews, fewer than 9,000 were in service by the start of WWII. It was soon issued on a much wider scale, with at least each infantry squad leader receiving one.
The improved MP40, perhaps the most recognizable German weapon of WWII, superseded the MP38. It featured stamped rather than milled steel components, and a safeguard against accidental discharge – unlike the MP38, which was prone to start firing when dropped or struck hard (roll 3d; on 17-18, it starts firing and doesn’t stop until the magazine is empty!). One million were made. Post-war, it was copied in Spain and Yugoslavia.
The MP40 entered Anglo-American folklore as the “Schmeisser,” even though Hugo Schmeisser had nothing to do with it; in fact, he worked for an entirely different company. The weapon continued to appear for a long time after WWII in irregular warfare. Both the Viet Cong and U.S. Army Special Forces used it in Vietnam. It saw considerable use with criminals – including many villains in James Bond movies.
With its drum magazine and distinctive perforated barrel jacket, the Pistolet-Pulemet Shpagina obrazets 1941g (“Shpagin’s submachine gun model 1941”) – or “Peh-Peh- Shah,” as the Americans called it during the Korean War – was the distinguishing feature of Communist armies until the early 1960s. The Soviet Union made 5.4 million weapons and distributed them widely to its allies and to Communist guerrillas. More were produced in China, Hungary, Iran, North Korea, Poland, Romania, and Yugoslavia.
In WWII, the Soviets armed entire infantry battalions with nothing but PPSh-41s. These troops were assigned directly to tank units. They rode on the outside of the tanks, clinging to handles welded to the armor. It must have been a truly delightful way to fight, especially in a Russian winter.
In 1943, a 35-round curved magazine superseded the 71- round drum magazine (copied from the KP/31, pp. 122, 124). This was cheaper, lighter, quicker to fill, and less prone to jamming (Malf 17., $29, 1.5 lbs.). The PPSh-41 was often issued with API ammo (Dmg 2d(2) pi- inc). While cheaply made, the PPSh-41 has an outstanding reputation for ruggedness (HT 12).
In 1941, the British were desperate for arms. Two engineers at the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield – Shepherd and Turpin – designed an SMG that could be produced quickly and cheaply. It was called the STEN, from their initials and the first two letters of Enfield. Its name and its “cheap and nasty” appearance led to nicknames like “Stench Gun,” “Woolworth Gun,” and “Plumber’s Delight.” The most numerous variant was the Sten Mk II, introduced in 1942. Over two million Mk IIs were made – about half of the total Sten production.
The Sten was plagued with reliability problems. Most could be traced to the magazine (inserted from the left), which was poorly designed and badly made. Even the manufacturer recommended loading it with only 28 rounds for more reliable feeding. Experienced soldiers would look over all the available magazines to select a few that worked. The GM might raise Malf. for veterans who get the opportunity to do this (make a successful Soldier roll).
The original Sten Mk I (1941-1942) had a folding wooden foregrip: Wt. 8.6. Some 100,000 were made.
The Sten Mk IIS (1943-1945) was a variant with an integral sound suppressor (-2 to Hearing): Dmg 2d pi, Range 120/1,400, Wt. 9.1, Bulk -5, Cost $425. As the suppressor would wear out after a single magazine of full-automatic fire, burst-fire was discouraged. Carefully aimed single shots could extend suppressor life to several hundred rounds. The Sten Mk IIS was the most numerous sound-suppressed weapon of WWII; 5,776 were made. British Commando and American OSS units employed it, and German special-warfare forces used all they could capture.
The British, Canadians, and New Zealanders manufactured a lot of Stens, as did others – including resistance movements in Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Poland, and Vietnam. It was also made by the Jewish Haganah in Palestine . . . and even in Germany, for the last defense during WWII (for use with MP40 magazines!). The simple design lent itself to production with few tools.
This cheap, simple weapon succeeded the Thompson (see Auto-Ordnance M1921, p. 122). Nicknamed the “Grease Gun” due to its likeness to the mechanic’s implement, it was made of stamped steel (its chief manufacturer made automobile headlights during peacetime) and had a retractable wire stock. Widely exported after WWII, it saw heavy use in Korea and Vietnam. It was obsolete by the 1960s but served as a tank-crew weapon until the 1990s, when the U.S. Army finally replaced it with the Colt M4 (pp. 119-121). More than 606,000 were produced.
About 1,000 were fitted with an integral sound suppressor (-2 to Hearing), for use by OSS agents: Dmg 2d pi+, Range 110/1,200, Wt. 11.6, Cost $600. Most saw action in the Far East and the Pacific.
The Sterling was the British military’s standard SMG until the Enfield L85A1 assault rifle (p. 118) replaced it. More than 400,000 were produced in England and widely exported as the Mark 4. It was also made under license in Canada and India. It had a folding stock and a curved magazine inserted from the left-hand side. A smaller, 15-round magazine was also available ($27, 0.8 lb.). Most people know the Sterling best as the basis of the Stormtrooper blasters in Star Wars!
The L34A1 (1966-1988) featured an integral sound suppressor (-3 to Hearing): Dmg 2d pi, Range 120/1,400, Wt. 9.5, Bulk -5*, Cost $920. Exported as the Mark 5, it saw extensive use. Australian and U.S. special-ops troops used it in Vietnam, and both Argentine and British special-ops forces used it in the Falklands War.
The Mark 7A4 (1972-1988) “paratrooper’s pistol” was a short machine pistol that lacked the stock: Dmg 2d+2 pi, Acc 2, Range 160/1,800, Wt. 6.4/1.6, RoF 10, ST 7, Bulk -3. If using the 15-round magazine: Wt. 5.6/0.8, Shots 15(3), Bulk -2. The Mark 7C4 was the same weapon limited to semiautomatic fire (RoF 3).
The Samopal vzór 61 Skorpion (“automatic gun model 1961 Scorpion”) was a compact machine pistol designed to be worn as a holstered sidearm by tank crews, paratroops, and secret police who desired more firepower than a pistol could provide. Production ceased after 210,000 were made. Widely exported, it showed up in the hands of revolutionaries and terrorists worldwide. It was also manufactured under license in Yugoslavia.
The Skorpion had a folding stock and an optional 10-round magazine ($26, 0.4 lb.). If fired one-handed with stock folded: ST 8, Rcl 3. It could be fitted with a 0.6-lb. wiper suppressor (-1 to Hearing, -1 Bulk, lasts for 40 shots), reducing Dmg to 1d+2 pi-.
The Uzi – named after its inventor, Uziel Gal – was the foundation of the Israeli small-arms industry. The original version, with a fixed wooden stock, appeared in 1955. IMI produced more than two million. It was also license-made in Belgium and South Africa, and copied in Burma, China, and Croatia. Armies and police forces worldwide adopted the Uzi; the U.S. Secret Service used it from 1967 until the 1990s.
At just over 2’ with its wooden stock, the Uzi was compact: Wt. 9, Bulk -4. From 1967, the standard version (in table) had a folding stock. The weapon was less than 18” long with the stock folded. If fired one-handed this way: ST 11, Rcl 3.
The Uzi’s original magazine took 25 rounds, but 32- round ($29, 1.3 lbs.) and 20-round ($28, 0.9 lb.) versions soon appeared. Its threaded muzzle could be fitted with a 1-lb. baffle suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). The gun also accepted a scarce 0.5-lb. knife bayonet (-2 to Spear skill, Reach 1).
The Uzi was available in .45 ACP (1987-1998) as well: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Range 150/1,700, Wt. 8.9/1.2, RoF 8, Shots 16. A 20-round magazine weighed 1.4 lbs.
A semiautomatic Uzi Carbine (1980-2004), with a 16” barrel, was for sale in the U.S.: Dmg 3d pi, Acc 4, Range 200/2,200, Wt. 9.5/1.1, RoF 3, Shots 25+1(3), Bulk -5*, Cost $1,000, LC3.
The Mini-Uzi (1980-), designed for vehicle crews and commandos, is only 14” long with stock folded: Dmg 2d+2 pi, Wt. 7/1.1, RoF 15, Cost $900.
The Micro-Uzi (1982-) is even smaller, at 10” with stock folded: Dmg 2d+2 pi, Range 160/1,800, Wt. 5.2/0.9, RoF 28, Shots 20(3), ST 7†, Bulk -3*, Cost $900. If fired one-handed with stock folded: Acc 2, ST 8, Rcl 3.
The Uzi Pistol (1983-1994) was a stockless semiautomatic variant of the Micro-Uzi: Dmg 2d+2 pi, Acc 2, Range 160/1,800, Wt. 4.7/0.9, RoF 3, Shots 20+1(3), ST 10, Bulk -2, Cost $900, LC3.
Gordon Ingram designed his Model 10 as the first really compact American SMG. Its initial manufacturer was the Military Armaments Corporation (MAC), hence it was also known as the “MAC-10.” It didn’t meet with much success, and only 16,000 were made. Its distinctive silhouette made it a favorite cinematic weapon (the sour joke was that all the production went to Hollywood).
The M10 was small enough to carry in a belt holster or a shoulder sling under a coat. If fired one-handed with the stock retracted: Acc 2, ST 10, Rcl 3. The barrel was threaded to take a 1.2-lb. baffle suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk).
From 1977-1994, the M10 was available in semiautomatic versions. These were easy to convert to selective fire; make an Armoury (Small Arms) roll at +4 or an IQ-based Guns roll. The semiautomatics were far more successful, with half a million being made under various trade names, including Cobray.
A rarer version of the M10 was made in .45 ACP: Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Range 140/1,500, Wt. 8.4/2.2, RoF 19, Shots 30(3).
The M11 (1970-1976) was even smaller, and chambered in .380 ACP: Dmg 2d-1 pi, Range 110/1,100, Wt. 4.6/1.1, RoF 26, ST 7†. A 16-round magazine weighed 0.6 lb.; a suppressor, 1 lb.
The innovative P90 PDW is compact and handy, combining a bullpup configuration with a top-mounted magazine that runs parallel to the barrel; its ergonomic grip encloses the trigger hand. Over 17,000 have been made. Users include special-ops forces, SWAT teams, and the U.S. Secret Service. It also features prominently in the Stargate SG-1 TV series. The P90 has an integral collimating sight (+1 skill), fires an AP round as standard, and accepts a 1.2- lb. baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk).
The P90TR (1999-) replaces the integral sight with three accessory rails (p. 161) on the top and sides.
The PS90 (2006-) is a semiautomatic civilian version with a longer (16.1”) barrel, firing normal bullets: Dmg 4d pi-, Range 200/2,200, Wt. 7/0.7, Shots 30+1(3), Cost $1,400/$32, LC3. With the restricted AP ammo, it does 3d(2) pi-. It can also use the P90’s 50-round magazines. Steyr TMP, 9x19mm Parabellum (Austria, 1993- 2001)
The Taktische Maschinenpistole (“tactical machine pistol”) was a light, sleek weapon resembling a large pistol with a foregrip. At 12” overall length, it was easy to conceal, and several units adopted it for bodyguard duties. If fired one-handed: ST 10, Rcl 3. With a 15-round magazine: Wt. 3.4/0.5, Shots 15+1(3).
The Pistolet Pulemet-19 Bizon-2 (“submachine gun model 19 Bison-2”) is based on Kalashnikov components. It features a folding stock and a 64-round helical drum magazine below and parallel to the barrel. Russian police and interior troops use it – often loaded with APHC ammo (Dmg 2d(2) pi-).
The Bizon-2-01 (1996-) is the same gun in 9x19mm Parabellum: Dmg 3d-1 pi, Range 170/1,900, Wt. 8/2.2, RoF 12, Shots 53(5).
The Universal-Maschinenpistole (“universal submachine gun”) was designed specifically for American SWAT teams, and has been widely exported. The UMP is a light blowback weapon with mostly synthetic components. It has a folding stock and integral accessory rails (p. 161) around the barrel and on the receiver. It’s also available in .40 S&W: Dmg 3d- 1 pi+, Range 190/2,000, Wt. 6/1.4, RoF 12, Shots 30+1(3). Guns in either caliber accept a 0.8-lb. baffle suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk).
The SR-2 Veresk (“Heather”) was designed to go with the SR-1 Gyurza pistol (p. 102), and fires the same APHC bullet. It’s a compact weapon with the magazine in the grip, a folding stock, and an accessory rail (p. 161) on the receiver. Its main users are Russian intelligence services and SWAT units.
This ambidextrous PDW was adopted by German and other special-ops units. It resembles a large, black-plastic pistol with the magazine in the grip, a retractable stock, and a folding foregrip. If fired one-handed with stock retracted: ST 8, Rcl 3.
The MP7A1 has an accessory rail (p. 161) over the entire receiver top to mount optics; a 0.2-lb. reflex sight (+1 skill) is standard. Rails on the sides accept targeting aids. It can be fitted with a 0.8-lb. baffle suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). An extended 40-round magazine is available (-1 Bulk, $28, 0.9 lb.). With AP ammo: Dmg 3d(2) pi-.
In 1966, West German police and border guards adopted the Maschinenpistole 5 – the fifth submachine gun to enter official service with German forces after WWII. It was the main weapon of the famous GSG9 antiterrorist unit from its inception. The MP5 first caught the public eye as the gun used by the British SAS during the Iranian embassy siege of 1980. It soon became the firearm of choice among special operators everywhere. Today, virtually all Western (and quite a few Eastern) special-ops, counterterrorist, and SWAT teams employ the MP5.
Several factors explain the MP5’s popularity despite its high price tag. It’s reliable and extremely versatile. Its closed-bolt action makes it probably the most accurate weapon of its type. Dozens of sub-variants exist, and there are few firearms with so many accessories offered. Finally, a certain air of professionalism surrounds it – if GSG9 and the SAS use it, it must be good. The MP5 has been license-made in Greece, Iran, Mexico, Norway, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the U.K.
The original MP5 (1966-1971) had a fixed plastic stock and a straight magazine (Wt. 6, Bulk -4). The MP5A1 (1966-1971) had no stock (Acc 3, Wt. 5.3, Bulk -3).
The MP5A2 (1971-) is slightly improved over the MP5 (but still Wt. 6, Bulk -4). It and the MP5A3 (in table), which has a retractable stock, are the main production models today.
The MP5A4 (1982-) has a fixed stock like the MP5A2, but offers a three-round limited burst option in addition to semi- and full-automatic (RoF 9/13). The MP5A5 (1982-) is like the MP5A4, but with a retractable stock.
The MP5N (1985-) was originally ordered by the U.S. Navy SEALs. It resembles the MP5A3 but features a new ambidextrous grip configuration, and muzzle lugs for the quick attachment of a 1.2-lb. baffle suppressor (-2 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). A 100-round twin drum (-1 Bulk, $313, 4.8 lbs.) became available in 2001.
The MP5 is also available in other calibers. In 1994, the FBI adopted the MP5/10A3 (1992-1999), in 10x25mm Auto: Dmg 3d+2 pi+, Range 280/3,100, Wt. 7.8/1.5, RoF 6/13, ST 9†, Rcl 3. The MP5/40A3 (1992-1999), in .40 S&W, was somewhat more popular: Dmg 3d-1 pi+, Range 190/2,000, Wt. 7.6/1.3, RoF 6/13. Both normally fired single shots, two-round limited bursts, and full automatic.
The MP5 Schalldämpfer has an integral sound suppressor (-3 to Hearing) that lasts for some 10,000 shots. The MP5SD1 lacks a stock (Acc 3, Wt. 7.3, Bulk -3), the MP5SD2 has a fixed stock (Wt. 8, Bulk -4), and the MP5SD3 (in table) has a retractable stock. The MP5SD4, MP5SD5, and MP5SD6 (all available from 1982) add a three-round limited-burst option (RoF 9/13) but are otherwise identical to the MP5SD1, MP5SD2 and MP5SD3, respectively.
The MP5 Kurz is a shortened machine-pistol variant designed for concealed carry under a coat. It lacks a stock but features a foregrip for better two-handed control. If fired one-handed: ST 11, Rcl 3. A 15-round magazine was designed to accompany it ($27, 0.7 lb.), but the standard 30-rounder is more common.
The MP5KA1 (1976-) has only rudimentary sights (Acc 1, Bulk -2, +1 to Fast-Draw). The MP5KA4 and MP5KA5 (1982-) offer three-round limited bursts (RoF 9/13). The MP5K-PDW (1991-) is similar to the MP5K, but has the MP5N grip and a folding stock (Acc 3, Wt. 6.2, Bulk -4*), and accepts the MP5N’s suppressor.
A special attaché case (p. 31) is available that can mount any MP5K model inside ($3,000, 14.9 lbs. with gun and spare magazine). A trigger in the carrying handle lets the carrier fire the weapon while it’s still in the case. This gives -4 to Guns skill – and unless the shooter employs the proper technique, with the case braced against his midsection, Rcl rises to 3.
Several attempts to design rapid-fire guns are made at TL5. It isn’t until the perfection of the metallic cartridge that the problems of obturation (sealing the breech against pressure loss) and extraction are solved to allow field reliability, however. Muscle-powered mechanical machine guns continue to see service at early TL6, until replaced by automatic machine guns.
The heyday of the hand-cranked machine gun was during the late-19th-century colonial conflicts. Such weapons gave small forces an edge when battling superior numbers, and while generally mounted on horse carriages, were still lighter than contemporary artillery. Most armies considered them ill-suited for regular warfare, though. The world’s navies more readily embraced the guns and used them in great numbers – they were ideal against the threat of relatively small and fast torpedo boats, and useful for supporting disembarking naval infantry.
Mechanical machine guns require skilled crews. If operation isn’t smooth and even, these weapons can jam in a variety of unpleasant ways. The unfamiliarity penalty (see Familiarity, p. B169) for a mechanical machine gun is -5. Rolls to fix malfunctions (p. B407) are at a further -1 for those without experience with that particular model of gun. All such weapons are fired at -8 off their mount, which provides the necessary resistance to the torque of the rotating machinery.
In 1862, Dr. Richard Gatling patented a gun that consisted of a cluster of barrels rotated by a crank on the righthand side of the breech and fed by a gravity hopper (much like a coffee mill). Each turn of the crank fed, fired, and extracted a round. About 1,200 “Gatling guns” of various designs were produced in the U.S. The American military acquired some 725 of these; the rest were either bought by citizens and police departments or exported. Hundreds more were license-made in Austria, Britain, and Russia, and copied in China.
The 10-barreled M1874 was the classic Gatling used by the U.S. Army, which acquired 82. It was mounted on a two-wheeled artillery carriage (560 lbs. with gun) and came with a separate two-wheeled limber (840 lbs.) holding 2,000 rounds in 50 magazines. Carriage and limber (which add $6,500 to the gun’s cost) were linked together and drawn by four horses. A 40-lb. tripod was offered ($1,800) but seldom bought, despite allowing a single pack animal to carry both mount and gun.
The M1874 fed from a detachable 40-round hopper magazine (8 lbs.). It could also use the 400-round Broadwell drum ($500, 60 lbs.). This was a circular cluster of 20 vertical, 20-round hoppers; after firing 20 rounds, the gunner had to rotate the drum manually to align the next cell with the feeder. (Rotating the drum takes two Ready maneuvers – or one, if an assistant does it. Installing a new drum takes 10 seconds.)
The original, six-barreled M1862 (1862-1866) fired the .58 Berdan rimfire cartridge: Malf. 14, Dmg 5d pi+, Acc 3, Range 230/2,300, EWt. 390/7, RoF 3, Shots 50(3i). It was mounted on a two-wheeled wooden artillery carriage (450 lbs. with gun) and, with a 580-lb. limber holding 2,000 rounds, pulled by four horses. Very few were built; General Butler of the Union Army bought 12 and used them during the American Civil War. The New York Times acquired three, which were manned by staff during the New York riots in June 1863.
The six-barreled M1866 (1866-1871), in .50-70 Government, was the original-series production model: Malf. 15, Dmg 5d+1 pi+, Range 490/3,100, EWt. 224/3, RoF 10, Shots 22(5). The first 50 entered U.S. Army service in 1867; 22 more went to the Navy. It was mounted on a twowheeled artillery carriage (426 lbs. with gun) and, with a 470-lb. limber, drawn by four horses.
At least 68 M1866 guns were made in the much larger 1” caliber (1866-1871): Malf. 15, Dmg 7d+1 pi++, Acc 5, Range 420/2,700, EWt. 1,008/18, RoF 5, Shots 20(5), Cost $30,000/$60. These often fired canister: Dmg 2d-1 pi+, Acc 3, Range 60/1,100, RoF 5×15, Rcl 1.
The five-barreled M1877 Bulldog (1877-1883), in .45- 70, was the smallest variant: Dmg 4d pi+, EWt. 90, RoF 7, ST 22M, Bulk -8, Cost $14,000. It was mounted on a 40-lb. tripod ($1,800). Intended for police service, it wasn’t very successful. Adventurers could surely find a niche for it, though…
The 10-barreled M1883 (1883-1889), in .45-70, had its barrels encased in a bronze shroud, protecting them and making them look like one fat barrel: Malf. 14, EWt. 237/24.5, Shots 104(5). It introduced the 104-round Accles Positive Feed drum ($650, 24.5 lbs.), a donut-shaped device driven by the gun. This drum didn’t rely on gravity, allowing it to feed from the side instead of the top if required, thereby lowering the gun’s silhouette and allowing installation in places with low ceilings, such as bunkers (or steampowered mecha or ether flyers…). Unfortunately, the drum’s feeding was less than “positive” and led to more jams. The M1883’s crank had two positions; installing it at the rear raised RoF to 25 but worsened Malf. to 13. Forty were made and mounted on two-wheeled artillery carriages (831 lbs. with gun), pulled with a 754-lb. limber (holding four drums and 6,040 spare rounds) by four horses. The 10-barreled M1903 (1907-1911) was the final version, chambered for the .30-06 cartridge: Dmg 7d+1 pi, EWt. 200/4.
From 1868, the Russian army acquired at least 520 guns similar to the M1874 but chambered in 10.75x58mmR Berdan (Dmg 5d-1 pi+). Known in Russia as the Gorlov, after the Russian military attaché who inspected it, it was still in use against the Japanese in 1904. Argentina, Chile, Cuba, Guatemala, and Mexico used similar Gatlings in 11.15x58mmR Spanish Remington (Dmg 5d pi+), while Egypt bought it in 11.4x50mmR Egyptian Remington (Dmg 5d pi+).
The British Army’s 10-barreled Gatling Mk I (1874) was chambered in .450 Gardner-Gatling: Dmg 5d pi+, EWt. 200/70, RoF 13, Shots 352(5), Bulk -9. Its 352-round Broadwell drum had 16 vertical cells, each holding 22 rounds. A lighter, 240-round drum (50 lbs.) held 16×15 rounds. The gun was mounted on a two-wheeled artillery carriage (444 lbs. with gun) and, with a 387-lb. empty limber, drawn by four horses.
The Hotchkiss rotary cannon, while externally similar to the Gatling, was bigger and differed internally. It had five rotating barrels, and fired a 1-lb. black-powder shell. Initially a naval weapon, it was intended as a defense against torpedo boats; contemporary torpedoes had a range of 400 yards, while the guns typically opened fire at 1,000 yards. It was exported to more than 30 countries and license-made in Britain, Germany, Russia, and the U.S. The Hotchkiss was uncommon on ground mounts, but the U.S. Army used it in the Indian Wars – for instance, against Sitting Bull’s Sioux in 1879.
The Hotchkiss fed from a 10-round gravity hopper. A loader could top up the hopper with 10-round charger clips (18 lbs.) or loose rounds (1.4 lbs.) while the gun was firing. Aside from LE (in table), it fired solid (Dmg 5dx2 pi++), canister (Dmg 1d+1 pi++, Acc 3, Range 60/1,200, RoF 1×75, Rcl 1), and APEX (Dmg 4dx2(2) pi++ with a 1d+2 [2d-1] cr ex follow-up) – the last available from 1892. Land-service guns mounted on a two-wheeled artillery carriage (1,600 lbs. with gun) with a DR 15 gun shield.
The Swedish-designed Nordenfelt was a mechanical machine gun operated by working a lever on the right-hand side back-and-forth. Most models were heavy, carriage- or ship-mounted weapons with three to 12 barrels. However, Nordenfelt also offered a single-barreled version. Less than 10 were purchased for trials with the Royal Marines, who didn’t adopt it. Nevertheless, it would make a marvelous portable machine gun, providing mobile firepower to a small group of soldiers or adventurers.
The Nordenfelt fed from two detachable hopper magazines – a 4.3-lb. one stacked atop a 4.7-lb. one – each holding 15 rounds. The shooter could fire all 30 rounds and then replace both magazines at once, or he could replace only the upper hopper after firing the first 15 rounds. The latter method was preferred, since users typically carried only one lower hopper but several (lighter) upper hoppers to keep weight down. The gun also featured a wire shoulder stock. It mounted on a 17-lb. folding tripod ($2,100). Alternate rifle calibers were available.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. Empty Weight (EWt.) and Cost assume neither ammo nor mount, but ammo weight follows the slash as usual.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range EWt. RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Gatling M1874, .45-70 4d+1 pi+ 4 470/3,000 200/8 15 40(5) 26M -10 2 $16,000/$40 2 [1] 5 Hotchkiss 1-pdr, 37x94mmR 5dx2(0.5) pi++ 4 570/3,600 495/18 2 10(5) 33M -12 2 $20,000 1 [2] follow-up 2d [2d] cr ex 5 Nordenfelt Single-Barrel, .450 MH 5d pi+ 4 500/3,200 13/9 3 30(5) 15M -6 2 $2,000/$45 2 [2]
Notes:
[1] Very Unreliable. Malfunctions on 15+ (see p. B407).
[2] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
Two TL6 developments – automatic actions and smokeless propellant – make true machine guns (MGs) practical.
The MG quickly becomes the most important infantry support weapon, and several sub-variants evolve:
The light machine gun (LMG) fires rifle-caliber rounds, is generally air-cooled, and uses a bipod and a shoulder stock in lieu of a mount. These features make it light enough for a single gunner to carry and use. The LMG is a TL6 innovation intended to provide a lightweight, mobile automatic weapon for cavalry and for assaults on entrenched enemies. Use Guns (LMG).
The medium machine gun (MMG) also fires rifle-caliber rounds, but is mounted on a carriage, tripod, or vehicle. It’s sturdily built to allow sustained fire for long periods. At TL6, MMGs are often water-cooled; at TL7, they’re aircooled. These weapons require a three-man team for transport. Once in position, one man acts as gunner, the second as loader, and the third as spotter. Use Gunner (Machine Gun).
The general-purpose machine gun (GPMG) is a late-TL6 hybrid combining the best features of the LMG and the MMG. Air-cooled and relatively light, one man can carry and operate it. However, it can be tripod-mounted for longrange engagements, and features a quick-change barrel for sustained fire. Use Guns (LMG) to fire handheld or from a bipod, or Gunner (Machine Gun) to shoot from a tripod or a vehicle mount.
The heavy machine gun (HMG) is similar to the MMG, but fires large-caliber rounds for increased range and punch. It’s a mid-TL6 development, designed to penetrate the armor of early tanks and to shoot down aircraft. While sometimes tripod-mounted, most HMGs are installed on vehicles. Use Gunner (Machine Gun).
The autocannon, appearing at mid-TL6, is a large automatic weapon designed to fire high-explosive and armorpiercing rounds. The line between HMGs and autocannon is customarily drawn at 20mm. Use Gunner (Machine Gun).
Machine guns installed on vehicles are either “fixed” (on a fixed mount or in a turret) or “flexible” (on an external open mount); see Vehicle Weapon Mounts (p. B467). Fixed MGs synchronized to fire through a propeller have a lower RoF.
Some machine guns feed from box, drum, or hopper magazines, but most use ammunition belts, allowing longer periods of fire between reloads. Early MG belts are made of cloth, which absorbs mud and water, and which may even rot under arduous conditions. This decreases reliability; the GM may reduce Malf. by 1. At mid-TL6, disintegrating metal-link belts appear for aircraft weapons. Metallink belts – disintegrating or non-disintegrating – are both lighter and less susceptible to water, and soon become standard for all MGs.
Changing a hot barrel typically requires 10 seconds and a Guns or Gunner skill roll. Critical failure means a burned hand. Treat this as 1d minutes of moderate pain (p. B428).
Invented by Hiram Maxim in 1883, this MMG was the first truly automatic firearm. It introduced the self-loading action and made popular the ammunition belt. It was water-cooled (7.5 pints) to allow sustained fire. In 1889, the British Army adopted it and Armstrong mass-produced it as the Maxim Mk I, in both .450 Martini-Henry (in table) and the new, smokeless .303 British: Dmg 6d+2 pi, Range 790/3,300, EWt. 40/16.
Both Mk I variants used 250-round non-disintegrating belts (30 lbs., or 40 lbs. in wooden box, in .450). In 1893, a 150-round belt was introduced for the .450 model (18 lbs., or 23 lbs. in wooden box). Maxims were originally mounted on a horse-drawn, two-wheeled artillery carriage (1,456 lbs. including gun and limber). In 1897, a sturdy, 48-lb. tripod ($2,700) became available, allowing a single pack animal to carry mount and gun.
In 1885-1889, a few selective-fire pre-production guns were made, chambered in .450 Martini-Henry: Dmg 5d pi+, EWt. 60/40, RoF 10, Shots 333(5). The slim water jacket held 3 pints and the tripod ($2,850) weighed 14 lbs. In 1888, British explorer Henry Stanley was the first to commit such a gun to combat, during his rescue expedition in Darkest Africa.
Brazil bought the improved version in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); Belgium and Peru, in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); and Chile, in 7.92x57mm Mauser (Dmg 7d+1 pi). The U.S. Army acquired a few hundred in .30-06 (Dmg 7d+1 pi) as the M1904.
The TOZ PM-1910 (1910-1943) was a Russian-made variant in 7.62x54mmR Mosin-Nagant: Dmg 7d pi, EWt. 44.7/22.7. These were widely used during WWI and WWII. The PM-1910 was usually mounted on a small, twowheeled carriage (79 lbs.), which could be fitted with a DR 20 gun shield (20 lbs.).
The water-cooled Maxim 1-pounder Quick-Fire Gun Mk I was the earliest autocannon – a Maxim MG scaled up to fire the 1-lb. Hotchkiss black-powder shell. It was originally intended for use against torpedo boats; the navies of Argentina, Spain, Turkey, the U.K., the U.S., and about 25 other nations adopted it. Germany and Russia made it under license. During the Anglo-Boer War in South Africa, both sides used it, and it was nicknamed the “Pom-Pom” due to its firing sound. German navy guns saw land service during the Boxer Rebellion in China, while the British used it as an anti-balloon gun on armored cars during WWI.
The Maxim 1-pounder used 25-round non-disintegrating belts (55 lbs., or 65 lbs. in wooden box). Land-service guns mounted on a two-wheeled carriage (765 lbs. with gun).
The air-cooled Colt Model 1895 was the first truly American MG. Designed by John Browning, this MMG was popularly known as the “Potato Digger” due to the gas lever that swung in a vertical plane below the gun. The U.S. Navy adopted it as the MK I for the Marines, who used it in the Spanish-American War and in China during the Boxer Rebellion. The Model 1895 fed from a 120-round nondisintegrating cloth belt (7.4 lbs., or 20 lbs. for two belts in wooden box) and mounted on a 57-lb. tripod ($2,550) or a 146-lb. two-wheeled landing carriage.
The Model 1895 was produced in many calibers. Italy acquired it in 6.5x52mm Mannlicher-Carcano (Dmg 6d pi); Mexico, in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); Persia and Russia, in 7.62x54mmR Mosin-Nagant (Dmg 7d pi); Belgium, in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); and Australia, Canada, and South Africa, in .303 British (Dmg 6d+2 pi). Teddy Roosevelt’s “Rough Riders” employed two privately acquired 7x57mm guns during the Spanish-American War.
The MK I MOD 1 (1898-1902) was re-chambered in .30-40 Krag (Dmg 6d pi). The M1914 (1914-1917), adopted by the U.S. Army, was an improved model in .30-06: Dmg 7d+1 pi, EWt. 36/15.3, RoF 10!, Shots 250. It mounted on a 53-lb. tripod ($2,550). The NYPD also got a few but, like the Army, hardly used it. The Marlin M1917 (1917-1918), in .30-06, replaced the gas lever with a conventional piston, allowing installation in aircraft (p. 233): Dmg 7d+1 pi, EWt. 22.2, RoF 14! (RoF 10! if synchronized), Shots 500.
The Danish Madsen was the most widespread (though not the most numerous) LMG in the world during the first half of the 20th century, having been supplied to 34 nations despite its complexity and high price. The Danish army’s first model was the Maskingevær M/03 (“machine gun model 1903”). The M/03 took 30-round box magazines, inserted from the top. Export models sometimes used 24-, 25-, 40-, or 48-round magazines instead.
The Dutch East Indies bought the Madsen in 6.5x53mmR Mannlicher (Dmg 6d pi); Norway and Sweden, in 6.5x55mm Mauser (Dmg 6d pi); Brazil, Mexico, and Spain, in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); Russia, in 7.62x54mmR Mosin- Nagant (Dmg 7d pi); Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay, in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); Pakistan, in .303 British (Dmg 6d+2 pi); and Abyssinia, China, Germany, and Turkey, in 7.92x57mm Mauser (Dmg 7d pi). After WWII, Brazil, Denmark, Indonesia, and Thailand acquired it in .30-06 (Dmg 7d+1 pi). Production ceased in 1955. In less-developed parts of the world, national armies, guerrillas, political movements, and bandit gangs were all likely to have Madsens until the 1960s.
In 1894, the German navy adopted a 7.92x57mm version of the Maxim (see Maxim Mk I, pp. 130-131) as the MG94. In 1908, the German army introduced a lighter model, which – together with its British and Russian equivalents – dominated the trench warfare of WWI, as seen in All Quiet on the Western Front. Some 32,000 were made.
The MG08 fed from a 250-round non-disintegrating cloth belt (16 lbs., or 19.5 lbs. in can). Its water jacket held 7 pints. The gun used an 88-lb. sled mount ($1,900; see Pulling and Dragging, p. B353) or a 71-lb. tripod ($2,850). It often included a 2-lb. 2.5x scope (+1 Acc). From 1915, APHC ammo (Dmg 7d+1(2) pi-) was available. China, Persia, Poland, Turkey, and Yugoslavia also adopted the MG08. Brazil acquired it in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); Belgium, in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); and Bulgaria, in 8x50mmR Mannlicher (Dmg 6d+1 pi). Many an MG08 saw service during WWII; some even reappeared in Vietnam.
The MG08/15 (1915-1918) was a lightened version with a shoulder stock and a bipod, intended for assault troops: Wt. 45.8/5.1, Shots 50(5), ST 13B†. The only widely used LMG with water cooling, its slim water jacket held 5 pints. It was a heavy LMG, barely serviceable by one man; Maxim gunners were picked for strength and endurance, and still had to take turns carrying the piece if they were to keep up with the riflemen. The MG08/15 fed from a 3.2-lb. 50-round belt coiled inside a drum (5.1 lbs. total) attached to the gun, but could also use the 250-round belt. About 130,000 were produced. The Germans kept this weapon in reserve use throughout WWII.
The air-cooled LMG08/15 (1916-1918) – known to the Allies as the “Spandau,” after the Berlin suburb where it was made – was Germany’s standard fixed aircraft MG (p. 233) in WWI: EWt. 27.5, RoF 11! (RoF 7! if synchronized). The stream of air from the plane’s motion provided sufficient cooling.
The air-cooled LMG14 Parabellum (1915-1918), developed from the Maxim, was a flexible MG for aircraft (p. 233) and Zeppelins: EWt. 23, RoF 11!, Bulk -7. It fed from a 100-round belt in a can or coiled on a spool. From 1917, it often had a 2-lb. 3x scope (+1 Acc).
The Vickers Mk I was a lighter, more reliable version of the Maxim Mk I (pp. 129-130), developed for the British Army. It saw extensive service in both World Wars and in many minor conflicts. It was often used for antiaircraft fire – a Vickers in the hands of the Australian Army was responsible for the death of Manfred von Richthofen, the “Red Baron.” The Vickers was also made in Australia, India, and the U.S., and was widely supplied from Abyssinia and Iraq to New Zealand and Pakistan. The British finally retired it in 1968, but it was still in use in Africa and other places into the 1980s.
The Vickers used 250-round non-disintegrating belts (16 lbs., or 22 lbs. in wooden box). Its water jacket held 9 pints. The gun mounted on a 51-lb. tripod ($2,700). In 1942, the British Army introduced an extra-powerful (p. 165) .303 British cartridge, with a fully streamlined bullet, for MG use: Dmg 7d-1 pi, Range 1,100/4,500.
The gun was exported as the Vickers Class C. The Dutch East Indies adopted it in 6.5x53mmR Mannlicher (Dmg 6d pi); Argentina and Bolivia, in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); and Russia, in 7.62x54mmR Mosin-Nagant (Dmg 7d pi).
The Vickers was soon adapted for service on fighter aircraft (p. 233). The Vickers Mk II (1917-1927) was air-cooled and had a higher rate of fire: EWt. 22, RoF 14! (RoF 10! if synchronized). It was exported as the Vickers Class E. Brazil, Chile, and Venezuela acquired it in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru, in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi); Turkey, in 7.92x57mm Mauser (Dmg 7d pi); and Denmark, in 8x58mmR Krag (Dmg 7d pi). Japan copied it in .303 British.
Designed by American Isaac Lewis and revealed in 1911, this MG was light enough for one man to carry and operate. It had a distinctive silhouette, with an aluminum cooling jacket around the barrel and a flat, 47-round pan-drum above the receiver. The first guns were made in Belgium, but the British soon adopted the weapon as the Lewis Mk I. It was widely used until the 1930s. In WWII, it was common as a light antiaircraft gun on merchant ships and small naval vessels, and issued to second-line units and the British Home Guard.
The Lewis was the first MG to be fired from an airplane; a prototype saw air service in 1912. A dedicated aircraft version, the Lewis Mk II (1915-1930), lacked the barrel jacket and shoulder stock: EWt. 18.5. From 1916, it was used with a 97-round drum (8.9 lbs.). The weapon was employed as a flexible observer’s gun (pp. 233, 235). T.E. Lawrence – and Ardeth Bay, in The Mummy – even fired it as a handheld weapon: ST 13†, Bulk -6, Rcl 3.
The Savage-Lewis M1918 (1918) was a U.S.-made aircraft version (p. 233) in .30-06: Dmg 7d+1 pi, EWt. 22.9. The unrelated but operationally similar Vickers G.O. Mk I (1937-1942), also known as the Vickers Class K, replaced the Lewis in RAF service: EWt. 20.5, RoF 16!, Shots 96(5). It was used as a manually aimed flexible MG on aircraft and ground vehicles (p. 237).
In 1897, Hotchkiss introduced an air-cooled MMG with distinctive, disc-shaped cooling fins around its massive barrel. This weapon evolved into the Mitrailleuse Modèle 1914 (“machine gun model 1914”) and remained the standard French MMG until early in WWII. In WWI, the U.S. Army used it, too; American soldiers nicknamed it and all its variants the “Woodpecker.” The Mle 1914 was exported to Brazil and Spain in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi), and to China, Greece, and Poland in 7.92x57mm Mauser (Dmg 7d+1 pi).
The Hotchkiss Mle 1914 used 24-round metal strips inserted from the side (1.5 lbs., or 26.4 lbs. for 12 strips in can) – or alternatively, 30-round strips (1.9 lbs., or 15 lbs. for six strips in can). The strips connected to make crude belts, if required. A spare barrel weighed 23.3 lbs. (treat as extra-heavy; see Sustained Fire, pp. 85-86). The Mle 1914 mounted on a tall, 53-lb. tripod ($2,850), usually equipped with a metal seat for the gunner.
The original Mitrailleuse Modèle 1897 (1897-1900) saw use only in limited numbers, mainly by the Foreign Legion: EWt. 56, RoF 10!. It had a 36.5-lb. tripod. However, the Mle 1897 was exported in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi) to Chile, Mexico, and Spain. Japan built it under license in 6.5x50mmSR Arisaka (Dmg 6d pi).
Developed from the Mle 1897, the Koishikawa 92 Shiki Juukikanjuu (1932-1945), or “machine gun type 92,” was the standard MMG of the Japanese army in WWII. It was chambered in 7.7x58mmSR Arisaka: Dmg 6d+2 pi, Range 1,100/4,600, EWt. 60.7/2, RoF 7!, Shots 30(5). Its 61.5-lb. tripod had sockets for carrying poles, allowing a three-man team to move the assembled weapon. It usually sported a 4x scope (+2 Acc).
This water-cooled MMG was the first in a long line of recoil-operated Browning machine guns. The U.S. military used the M1917 mainly as a battalion MG in infantry units. Some 43,000 were made.
The M1917 fed from 250-round non-disintegrating belts (15.3 lbs., or 20.3 lbs. in wooden box). Its water jacket held 8 pints. The gun mounted on a 61-lb. tripod ($2,700).
Between the World Wars, the design was exported as the Colt MG38 (1924-1943). Brazil acquired this in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi), while Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Peru adopted it in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi). It was also made under license in Sweden, in 6.5x55mm Mauser (Dmg 6d pi) and 8x63mm Bofors (Dmg 7d+1 pi), and in Norway, in 7.92x57mm Mauser (Dmg 7d pi). China and Poland copied it in 7.92x57mm Mauser.
The WWII variant was the M1917A1 (1936-1945): EWt. 40.6. It mounted on a 53-lb. tripod.
ZB ZB26, 7.92x57mm Mauser (Czechoslovakia, 1927-1941) The ZB26 was one of the most successful LMGs ever. It was developed by the arsenal at Brno, adopted by Czechoslovakia’s military, and exported in large numbers. Customers included China, Persia, and Yugoslavia. Brazil bought it in 7x57mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi). Some 150,000 were made. The ZB26 was a conventional air-cooled LMG, fired from a bipod. It used 20-round detachable box magazines, inserted from the top. A spare barrel weighed 5.5 lbs. The slightly improved ZB30 (1930-1941) was even more popular: Wt. 23/1.8. During WWII, German troops – especially the Waffen-SS – used captured ZB30s. Romania built the weapon under license. Bolivia bought it in 7.65x53mm Mauser (Dmg 6d+2 pi) and Bulgaria acquired it in 8x50mmR Mannlicher (Dmg 6d+1 pi).
The Ruchnoi Pulemet Degtyareva Pekhotnyi (“Degtyarev’s handheld infantry machine gun”) was a simple LMG with an excellent reputation for reliability and ease of maintenance. The flat, pan-drum magazine on top of the receiver earned it the nickname “Russian guitar.” The DP replaced the Madsen (p. 130) in front-line service with the Soviet army, who used it from the late 1920s to the 1950s. It was widely exported, equipping the Loyalists in the Spanish Civil War and the Viet Cong during the 1960s. It was also made in China.
The air-cooled DP included a bipod. It took flat, 47- round pan-drum magazines. A spare barrel weighed 4.4 lbs. The DT (1929-1946) was a tank variant installed in many Soviet vehicles. It featured a retractable stock, a heavier barrel, and a 63-round drum: EWt. 23.1. It accepted a bipod to allow use away from the vehicle: Wt. 30/5, Shots 63(5), Bulk -7*. Many were issued to infantry and partisans in place of the DP (but magazines for the DT and DP aren’t interchangeable).
The DA (1929-1936) was an aircraft model that also used the 63-round drum: EWt. 18.5. It served as a flexible gun in 1930s Soviet aircraft (p. 235).
The Oerlikon Typ S was sold worldwide as an antiaircraft autocannon, typically mounted on a two-wheeled carriage (570 lbs. with gun) that converted to a tripod in firing position. It fed from 60-round drums (62 lbs.) or 15-round box magazines (16 lbs.). It fired SAPHE-T (in table) and API-T (Dmg 6dx2(2) pi++ inc).
The Typ SS (1938-1947) was an improved variant: EWt. 147, RoF 8!. It was even more widespread, mounted on tripods or vehicles (especially ships). The U.K. and U.S. made hundreds of thousands.
This gun used the Browning M1917 (p. 131) action, but had a shorter barrel and no water jacket. While the M1919A4 was developed from a tank MG and installed in a number of tanks (p. 239), it was light enough for fastmoving troops to transport easily. It became the standard American infantry MMG in the 1930s. After WWII, surplus U.S. weapons were widely exported and saw continued service with some militaries for the rest of the 20th century. More than half a million were made, many in Canada. The U.S. Navy and the Canadian, Israeli, and South African armies, among other forces, eventually converted it to 7.62x51mm NATO (Dmg 7d pi).
The M1919A4 used 250-round non-disintegrating belts (15.3 lbs., or 18.8 lbs. in can). A spare barrel weighed 7.4 lbs. (treat as extra-heavy; see Sustained Fire, pp. 85-86); changing it required an asbestos glove. The weapon usually fired AP-T ammo (Dmg 5d(2) pi- inc). It mounted on a 14-lb. tripod ($2,550).
The original M1919 (1919-1920) was installed in early tanks (p. 234): Dmg 7d-1, EWt. 33.
The Colt MG32 (1932-1943) was the pre-war export version of the M1919A4 (use the same stats).
The M1919A6 (1943-1954) was a desperate attempt to turn the M1919A4 into a LMG by adding a bipod, a shoulder stock, and a carrying handle: Wt. 47.8/15.3, Bulk -8, ST 13B†. It had a normal – not extra-heavy – barrel. Despite being too heavy and unwieldy for its intended role, the M1919A6 saw intense service in WWII and Korea.
The .30-caliber M2 (1931-1945) was the last and most successful of several aircraft versions made since 1918, lightened and with a higher rate of fire: EWt. 21.5, RoF 20! (RoF 12! if synchronized). It was installed in many early USAF aircraft. Some 193,000 were made.
The Colt MG40 (1932-1943) export version of the M2 was available in several calibers, 7.92x57mm Mauser being the most popular: Dmg 7d pi, EWt. 21.5, RoF 20!. The RAF adopted it in .303 British as the Browning Mk II (1938- 1945), which was standard aircraft armament in early WWII: Dmg 6d+2 pi, EWt. 25.3, RoF 19! (RoF 12! if synchronized).
The Maschinengewehr 34 was the first GPMG, intended to supply – in one gun – a LMG for infantry squads, a tripod-mounted support weapon at platoon level, an antiaircraft gun for vehicles (including ships and submarines), a hull and coaxial gun for armored vehicles (pp. 235, 237- 238), and a fortress gun. It lacked a heavy water jacket, instead being issued with two spare barrels – carried by the assistant gunner – that could be changed quickly (six seconds) to avoid burning one up in sustained fire. Germany, Hungary, and Romania used the MG34 during WWII. After 1945, it saw service with the French, Israelis, Biafrans, and Viet Cong, among others. Some 400,000 were made.
The MG34 fed from 50-round non-disintegrating belts (3 lbs., or 5 lbs. in assault drum), which could be connected to form longer belts (23.5 lbs. for 300 rounds in can). Weapons installed in tanks used 150-round belts in canvas bags. After exchanging the receiver cover (six seconds), the MG34 could take 75-round twin-drum saddle magazines (9.5 lbs., rare after 1940) instead of belts. Its trigger was pivoted in the middle; a pull on the top gave semi-auto while a pull on the bottom gave full-auto (see Automatic Weapons, pp. 82-83). It typically fired APHC-T ammo (Dmg 7d+1(2) pi- inc). A spare barrel weighed 4.4 lbs. (a case holding two weighed 12.5 lbs.); changing it required an asbestos glove. The MG34 could be mounted on an elaborate 46-lb. tripod ($2,600) with an integral 4x scope (+2 Acc).
The MG15 (1932-1942) used the same action. It was installed as a flexible gun in many German aircraft (pp. 235, 237): Dmg 7d+1 pi, EWt. 18, RoF 16!, Bulk -6. It fed from 75-round twin saddle drums (9.4 lbs.). The MG15 was also made in Japan.
In WWII, the MG17 (1934-1942) was the standard German light aircraft MG in fixed installations: Dmg 7d+1 pi, EWt. 27.7, RoF 20! (RoF 16! if synchronized). It used disintegrating belts.
In the 1930s, the British introduced a development of the ZB30 (pp. 85-86), chambered in .303 British. It was manufactured under license at Enfield from 1938; BREN is an acronym for “Brno and Enfield.” Some 300,000 were made. The Bren was also produced in Australia, Canada, and India.
The Bren was the standard British LMG of WWII. It was mounted on vehicles, too – often atop tank turrets, for antiaircraft fire. The crew could easily dismount these weapons in the event that they had to abandon the vehicle.
The Bren used 30-round box magazines, inserted from the top. A 100-round pan drum (12 lbs.) was issued for guns mounted on tank turrets. A spare barrel weighed 6.3 lbs. (treat as extra-heavy; see Sustained Fire, pp. 85-86). The British Army used the Bren mainly from its bipod, but a 30- lb. tripod ($1,800) was available for sustained fire.
The L4A4 (1960-1961) was a Bren converted to 7.62x51mm NATO: Dmg 7d pi, Wt. 23.6/2.6. It accepted the 20-round magazine of the L1A1 rifle (see FN FAL, p. 115). Some 7,500 were made and used until the 1990s – including in the Falklands War and the 1991 Gulf War. It was also manufactured in India.
During WWI, John Browning started work on a HMG by scaling up his .30-caliber MGs (pp. 131-132) to .50-caliber, basing the cartridge on that of the Mauser Tank-Gewehr (p. 112). In 1933, the weapon was perfected as the M2, which could be set up to feed from either side. The main ground-service version was the M2HB of 1938, which received a longer, heavier barrel for sustained fire.
The M2HB is an exceedingly successful design. A standard antiaircraft and light antivehicular weapon for the U.S. military since its introduction, it can be found on a 44- lb. tripod ($3,500) and mounted on boats (pp. 241-242), tanks (p. 239), trucks (p. 239), HMMWVs (pp. 242-243), and even jeeps (p. 237). Half a million were made during WWII alone, and production resumed in 1979. The gun has been exported widely and license-made in Belgium, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the U.K.
The M2HB originally used 105-round disintegrating belts (31.8 lbs., 36.2 lbs. in can, or 95.6 lbs. for two belts in can). After 1945, 100 rounds were linked (30.3 lbs., or 34.7 lbs. in can). In the 1990s, 225-round belts appeared (68.2 lbs., or 73.7 lbs in can). Solid ammo is available (in table), but the usual load is API-T (Dmg 5dx2(2) pi inc). APHEXT (Dmg 7dx2(2) pi with a 1d-2 [1d-2] cr ex follow-up) has also seen use since the 1980s, and APDS-T (Dmg 6dx3(2) pi inc) since 1993.
A spare barrel weighs 27 lbs. (treat as extra-heavy; see Sustained Fire, pp. 85-86). From 1978, the M2HB often mounts a 7.5-lb. 6.5x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 5, 2xXS/30 hrs.) – or, as of 1997, a 5.5-lb. 10x thermal sight (+3 Acc and Infravision, M/12 hrs.). Also in 1997, an 11-lb. computer sight (+2 Acc scope, +3 Acc laser rangefinder, Night Vision 7, +1 Gunner, p. 157) became available. The .50-caliber M2 (1933-1945) was an aircraft version that armed practically all U.S. combat aircraft during WWII: Dmg 6dx2 pi+, Range 1,700/7,100, EWt. 64, RoF 13!, Bulk -8. It was exported as the Colt MG53.
The FN-Browning M3P (1984-) is an upgraded Belgian variant for fixed installation in vehicles: Dmg 6dx2 pi+, Range 1,700/7,100, EWt. 80, RoF 18!, Bulk -8. The U.S. Army adopted it as the M296. The M3M (1984-) is the same weapon for manual firing as a door gun: EWt. 77. The USAF calls this the GAU-21/A.
The Degtyarev-Shpagin Pulemet Krupnokaliberni obrazets 1938g (“Degtyarev and Shpagin’s heavy-caliber machine gun model 1938”) was in many ways the Soviet equivalent of the .50-caliber Browning (above). It used 50- round disintegrating belts (16.9 lbs., or 21 lbs. in can). Alternative ammo included API-T (Dmg 5dx2(2) pi inc), APHC-T (Dmg 7dx2(2) pi inc), and SAPHE-T (Dmg 7dx2 pi+ with a 1d [1d-2] cr ex follow-up). A spare barrel weighed 28 lbs. (treat as extra-heavy; see Sustained Fire, p. 85). The weapon’s usual mount was a two-wheeled, 266- lb. carriage with a DR 25 gun shield, which could be set up for antiaircraft fire.
The DShKM (1946-1980) was a post-war variant that saw extremely wide service, including as a flexible gun on tanks: EWt. 78.5. It has been manufactured in Bulgaria, China, Czechoslovakia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Poland, and Romania. The Chinese have made APDS-T (Dmg 6dx3(2) pi inc) for it since the 1990s.
The MG151/20 was installed in many Nazi combat aircraft (p. 237) and some Italian, Japanese, and Romanian fighters during WWII. Late in the war, antiaircraft mounts and fast attack boats also carried it. Some 36,000 were made. After the war, France and South Africa copied it, and those countries and Rhodesia used it as a door gun on light helicopters (p. 241).
The MG151/20 used disintegrating belts (60.3 lbs. for 125 rounds, or 110 lbs. for 200 rounds in wooden box). Besides SAPHE-T (in table), it fired AP-T (Dmg 5dx2(2) pi++ inc) and SAPHEC-SD (Dmg 7dx2 pi++ with a 3d cr ex follow-up, Range 1,200), the latter for air-to-air combat (RoF 10! if synchronized).
The MG34 (p. 132-133), while completely satisfactory in the field, was expensive and slow to produce. The MG42, designed to replace it, was simpler to make thanks to the extensive use of sheet-metal stampings. More than 350,000 were made. The MG42 was famous for its high rate of fire; its distinctive sound has been likened to that of tearing linen.
The MG42 used 50-round non-disintegrating belts (3 lbs., or 5 lbs. in assault drum), which could be linked to form longer belts (23.5 lbs. for 300 rounds in can). A spare barrel weighed 4 lbs. (a case holding two weighed 11.7 lbs.); it took only three seconds to change, but this required an asbestos glove. The weapon usually fired AP-T ammo (Dmg 5d-1(2) pi- inc). For sustained fire, it was mounted on a 46-lb. tripod ($2,600) with an integral 4x scope (+2 Acc).
After WWII, the MG42 was available in 7.62x51mm NATO as the MG42/59 (1959-1968), called the MG1 in German service: Dmg 7d-1 pi, Wt. 27.6/3.3. It was licensed to Austria and Italy (these versions had RoF 13!), and to Pakistan.
The final iteration was the MG3 (1968-1979), also in 7.62x51mm NATO: Wt. 27.6/3.3. This is still in service around the world and has been license-made in Greece, Iran, Pakistan, Spain, and Turkey. The MG3 can use both disintegrating and non-disintegrating belts; belt lengths include 50 (3.3 lbs., or 3.7 lbs. in assault drum), 120 (7.9 lbs., or 8.6 lbs. in assault can), and 250 rounds (16.5 lbs., or 20 lbs. in can).
The Krupnokaliberni Pulemet Vladimirova (“Vladimirov’s heavy-caliber machine gun”) fired a 14.5x114mm cartridge originally developed for an antitank rifle in the 1930s. It was used primarily as an antiaircraft gun in single, twin, and quadruple towed mounts, and in single and twin mounts on naval vessels. Its weight made it an unlikely encounter on the infantry line – but any attack on a Soviet-era airfield or missile site would have faced a hail of 14.5mm fire. The KPV was also made in China and North Korea, and widely distributed.
The KPV used 40-round disintegrating belts (20.9 lbs., or 25 lbs. in can). It fired APHCI-T (in table) and SAPHE-T (Dmg 6dx3 pi+ with a 1d+1 [1d-1] cr ex follow-up). The smallest AA mount, the ZPU-1, was a manually traversed, two-wheeled carriage (960 lbs. with a single gun) with a gunner’s seat. The ZPU-1 broke down into five loads for pack-animal transport, and was light enough to mount on pickup trucks (sometimes called “technicals”).
The KPVT (1947-) is a variant for armored vehicles (p. 240): EWt. 115.
In 1948, the Soviets adopted the Ruchnoi Pulemet Degtyareva (“Degtyarev’s hand-held machine gun”), a bipod-mounted MG chambered for the intermediate-sized cartridge of the SKS-45 (p. 115) and AK-47 (p. 114) rifles. It used an action developed from that of the DP (p. 132), but fed from 100-round non-disintegrating belts (4.1 lbs., or 5.3 lbs. in drum). The result was a neat, light squad automatic weapon. The RPD was widely exported, and made under license in China, Egypt, Hungary, and North Korea. U.S. Army Special Forces sometimes used it in Vietnam.
The U.S. military’s standard GPMG for decades, the M60 was lighter than many competing designs but suffered from reliability issues. American gunners often called it “the Pig.” They also despised its less-than-perfect barrel-changing arrangements: bipod, front sight, and gas system were permanently attached to the barrel, so the hot gun couldn’t support itself without its barrel and the gunner’s assistant had to lug an overly heavy spare. Few countries chose the M60 over other MGs, but it was widely supplied to U.S. allies, especially in Central America and Southeast Asia. It was licensed to Taiwan.
The M60 used 100-round disintegrating belts (6.6 lbs., 7 lbs. in nylon carrier, or 18.7 lbs. for two belts in can). A spare barrel weighed 8.2 lbs.; changing it required an asbestos glove. A 15-lb. tripod ($1,800) let the weapon function in the MMG role. Starting in 1978, the M60 was often fitted with a 3.3-lb. 4x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 5, 2xXS/30 hrs.).
The M60C (1962-1983) was a remote-fired variant for installation on helicopter gunships and light attack aircraft (p. 243): EWt. 24.
The M60D (1962-1983) had spade grips at the rear for use as a helicopter door gun or as an antiaircraft gun on tank turrets: EWt. 24.3. It retained the bipod for emergency use off the vehicle.
The M60E3 (1983-) is an improved version: Wt. 26.3, Cost $10,500. New features include a pistol foregrip, light barrel (see Sustained Fire, pp. 85-56), better barrel-change arrangements, a lighter bipod, and feed improvements. A shorter barrel is available for assault: Dmg 7d-1 pi, Range 900/3,750, Wt. 26, Bulk -6. The U.S. Marine Corps and Navy SEALs adopted it in 1985 and used it until the 1990s.
The Mitrailleuse à Gaz (“gas-operated machine gun”) is FN’s companion to the FAL rifle (p. 115). It’s an extremely successful GPMG, standard issue in most countries that don’t use the PK (p. 135), the M60 (see above), or an MG42 variant (see above). It has been made in Argentina, India, Israel, Singapore, Sweden, Taiwan, the U.K., and the U.S., and is liable to be found almost anywhere in the world. The MAG uses 100-round disintegrating belts (6.6 lbs., or 18.7 lbs. for two belts in can), although some users specify non-disintegrating belts. A spare barrel weighs 6 lbs. The gun mounts on a 23-lb. tripod ($1,800).
The U.S. military originally adopted it as the M240 coaxial gun (1977-) on armored fighting vehicles: EWt. 24.2. The U.S. Marine Corps uses the M240G (1994-). This is identical to the basic MAG. It replaces the M60E3.
The U.S. Army acquired the modified M240B (1997-) to replace the M60. It has heat shields and accessory rails: EWt. 27.6. It mounts on a lightened 11.5-lb. tripod ($2,250). Since 1999, it often has a 5-lb. 5x thermal sight (+2 Acc and Infravision, M/12 hrs.) – or, from 2001, a 1.5-lb. 3.4x scope (+1 Acc and removes - 1 from darkness penalties, XS/175 hrs.). In 2006, a 50-round belt (3.3 lbs.) in a 0.2-lb. soft pouch was introduced. The M240D (1997-) has spade grips at the rear for use on tank turrets or as a helicopter door gun: EWt. 25.6. KMZ PK, 7.62x54mmR Mosin-Nagant (Russia, 1961-1969) The Soviet army adopted the Pulemet Kalashnikova (“Kalashnikov’s machine gun”) as its GPMG. This was yet another modification of the Kalashnikov (p. 114) action. The lightweight PK series was widely exported, and also made in Bulgaria, China, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Yugoslavia. The PK used non-disintegrating belts of 100 (5.4 lbs., or 8.6 lbs. in can) or 250 rounds (13.4 lbs., or 20.7 lbs. in can). A spare barrel weighed 4.8 lbs. The weapon was designated PKS when mounted on a 16.5-lb. tripod ($1,650). The PKT (1962-1969) was a coaxial version, for armored vehicles (p. 240): EWt. 23.1. The PKM (1969-) is a modernized version: Wt. 26/8.6. The PKMS is mounted on a new 9.9-lb. tripod ($2,500). The PKMT is a coaxial MG for armored vehicles (p. 244): EWt. 25.8. The PKM accepts a 2.9-lb. 5x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 5, XS/10 hrs.). MAC AA7.62NF1, 7.62x51mm NATO (France, 1963-1975) The Arme Automatique de 7.62N Modèle F1, a GPMG with a retractable stock, is still standard with the French military. It has been widely exported, especially to Africa. The AA7.62NF1 uses 50-round disintegrating belts (3.3 lbs., or 18.7 lbs. for four belts in can). It can be mounted on a 23-lb. tripod ($1,650). Several sub-variants exist. The AFV version (p. 240) has an extra-heavy barrel (see Sustained Fire, pp. 85-86) and a remote trigger: EWt. 19.4. The AA7.62NF1’s predecessor was the Arme Automatique Modèle 52 (1952-1963), in 7.5x54mm MAS: Dmg 7d pi, Wt. 26.5/3.2, RoF 11, Shots 50(5). It was used in the Algerian War and several other conflicts. GE M61A1 Vulcan, 20x102mm (USA, 1964-) After WWII, the USAF began searching for a new fastfiring aircraft gun based on the Gatling design (see Gatling M1874, p. 127). In 1956, it adopted the M61 Vulcan: an externally powered cannon with six rotating barrels, feeding from a disintegrating belt. The M61A1 soon superseded the M61; it employed a linkless feeder for better reliability and a higher rate of fire. It was license-made in Italy and Japan. Like most modern aircraft cannon, the M61A1 has two selectable rates of fire: RoF 66! and RoF 100! (the original M61 fired at RoF 66! only). Some installations fire at other rates; e.g., USAF fixed-wing gunships such as the AC-130E and AC-130H Spectre mount the gun with a fixed RoF 41!. An externally powered drum magazine holds the linkless ammo. Capacity varies by application; most fighters carry 500-1,000 rounds. Besides SAPHE (in table), it fires API (Dmg 6dx2(2) pi++ inc) and APEX (Dmg 6dx2(2) pi++ with a 1d+2 [1d] cr ex follow-up). In 1988, a low-drag SAPHE round became available (Range 1,650/6,900). The M61A1’s power requirement is 26 kW. Used as a naval close-in weapon system (CIWS), the gun is known as the MK 15 MOD 0 Phalanx. It fires APDSDU (Dmg 7dx4(2) pi+ inc, Range 1,800/7,700) and has a fixed RoF 50!. A minor variation called the M168 (1968-1982) was installed on APC variants for air defense. It fired at RoF 16! and RoF 50!. The M197 Vulcan (1969-) is lightened by using only three barrels: Wt. 146, RoF 12!/25!, ST 24M, Bulk -10. Its power requirement is 2.2 kW. Designed for helicopter gunships, it also arms the Gunhed mecha in the movie Ganheddo. GE M134, 7.62x51mm NATO (USA, 1964-1973) Essentially a miniaturized M61A1 Vulcan cannon (above), the M134 “minigun” is an externally powered, sixbarreled rotary gun. It was originally developed to arm helicopters (p. 241) during the Vietnam War. U.S. Navy SEALs have used it on small raiding boats, while U.S. Army Special Forces mount it on “Humvees” (p. 242). The M134 uses disintegrating belts – typically with several thousand rounds (204 lbs. for 3,000-round belt in can, or 322 lbs. for 4,500-round belt in can). It has two selectable rates of fire: RoF 33! and RoF 66!. Its power requirement is 2.2 kW, supplied by a vehicle generator or a separate 35-lb. battery pack (3xL/6,000 shots). The USAF installed the almost identical GAU-2B/A (1964-1973) in helicopters, ground-attack aircraft, and fixed-wing gunships. It fired at RoF 50! and RoF 100!. Its power requirement was 3.6 kW.
The Dillon M134DT (2006-) is a lightened version using titanium components: EWt. 53.1, RoF 50!, Cost $25,000. The M134 made a famous (if unrealistic) appearance as a man-pack weapon in the films Predator and Terminator 2. Such a contraption – custom-fitted with sling swivels and handles to hold it – would have EWt. 65, RoF 30!, ST 16†, Rcl 3, Cost $25,000. Including 12-lb. camera battery belt (5xM/2,000 shots) and cabling, 4-lb. ammo chute, 37-lb. ammo can (400 rounds), and 4-lb. backpack frame, total weight would be 122 lbs. H&K HK21A1, 7.62x51mm NATO (Germany, 1970-1982) In the 1960s, Heckler & Koch designed a family of LMGs based on components of their G3 rifle (p. 116). The most common variant was the HK21A1, which was also license-made in Greece and Mexico. The U.S. Army’s Delta Force used the HK21A1 during Operation Eagle Claw in 1980. The HK21A1 fed from a 100-round disintegrating belt (6.6 lbs., or 7.9 lbs. in assault can). With an $850 adapter, it could instead use the G3’s 20-round magazine (1.7 lbs.) and 50-round drum (4.3 lbs.). A spare barrel weighed 3.7 lbs. (changing it takes only three seconds). A 22-lb. tripod ($1,650) was available. The HK21A1 accepted most G3 rifle accessories, including a 1.4-lb. 4x scope (+2 Acc). The original version was the HK21 (1961-1970): Wt. 25.3/7.9, RoF 15. This could only use belts, and reloading was slower (seven Ready maneuvers). It also had some reliability issues (Malf. 16). It was license-made in Portugal. The HK21E (1982-) superseded the HK21A1. It has a longer barrel and allows three-round limited bursts: Dmg 7d pi, Wt. 27/6.6, RoF 9/13, Bulk -7. The HK23E (1982-2004) is the same weapon in 5.56x45mm NATO: Dmg 5d-1 pi, Range 750/3,100, Wt. 26.8/7.5, RoF 9/13, Shots 200. With an $850 adapter, it can use M16 magazines: Wt. 20.3/1, Shots 30+1(3). Molot NSV-12.7 Utes, 12.7x108mm (Russia, 1972-2001) The NSV-12.7 Utes (“Cliff”) superseded the DShKM (see KPZ DShK-38, p. 133) as the standard antiaircraft HMG on Soviet tank turrets (p. 244). Widely exported, it was also made in Bulgaria, India, Kazakhstan, Poland, Ukraine, and Yugoslavia. The NSV-12.7 feeds from 50-round disintegrating belts (16.9 lbs., or 24.4 lbs. in can). A spare barrel weighs 19.8 lbs. The weapon’s designation changes to NSVS-12.7 when mounted on a 35-lb. tripod ($2,850) for infantry use. In this configuration, a 3.7-lb. 3-6x variable scope (+2 Acc) is standard issue. The gun also accepts a 7-lb. 6.4x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 5, 2xXS/25 hrs.). Hughes M242 Bushmaster, 25x137mm Oerlikon (USA, 1981-) This externally powered autocannon employs two internal chains to operate the action, whence the trademark name “Chain Gun.” It’s mounted on U.S. Army and Marine Corps armored vehicles. As the MK 38 MOD 0, it also arms various U.S. Navy and Coast Guard vessels. More than 11,000 have been made, and it’s widely exported. The M242 has a dual feeder, allowing the gunner to change from one ammo belt to another at the flick of a switch (a Ready maneuver). It uses disintegrating belts, which come in 15-round segments (19 lbs., or 47.7 lbs. for 30 rounds in can). In addition to SAPHE-SD-T (in table), it fires APDS-T (Dmg 6dx5(2) pi+ inc, Range 3,200/16,500), APFSDSDU-T (Dmg 6dx8(2) pi inc, Range 4,200/17,600), and, in Navy use, APDU-T (Dmg 6dx5(2) pi++ inc, Range 2,100/8,800).
The Mini-Mitrailleuse (“mini-machine gun”) is the most widespread LMG in use at the dawn of the 21st century. The MINIMI has been made in Australia, Canada, Greece, Italy, Japan, and the U.S. The U.S. military has used it as the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) since 1984.
The MINIMI feeds from a 200-round disintegrating belt (6.4 lbs.) held in a 0.6-lb. plastic can (which rattles: -1 to Stealth). It can use M16 rifle magazines in an emergency, increasing RoF to 15! and reducing Malf. to 16. In 1990, a 100-round belt (3.2 lbs.) in a 0.2-lb. soft pouch was introduced. A spare barrel weighs 3.5 lbs. Since 2001, many M249s mount a 1.5-lb. battery-illuminated 3.4x scope (+1 Acc and removes -1 from darkness penalties, XS/175 hrs.). The MINIMI-Para (1985-), for paratroops, has a shorter barrel and a retractable shoulder stock: Dmg 4d+2 pi, Acc 4, Range 700/2,900, Wt. 22.7/7, Bulk -6*, Cost $3,700. The MK 46 MOD 0 (2001-) is an improved variant with a shortened barrel, designed for the U.S. Navy SEALs: Dmg 4d+2 pi, Acc 4, Range 750/3,100, Wt. 16/3.4, Shots 100(5), Cost $4,500. To improve reliability, it lacks the magazine feeder – the MK 46 MOD 0 can only use belts. It has accessory rails (p. 161) on the receiver top and around the forearm, and a detachable 1-lb. bipod. It accepts a 1.7-lb. sound suppressor (-3 to Hearing, -1 Bulk). The MK 48 MOD 0 (2003-) is similar to the MK 46 MOD 0, but chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO: Dmg 6d+1 pi, Acc 5, Range 900/3,750, Wt. 25.3/6.8, Shots 100(5), Cost $8,000.
Electrically powered rotary cannon don’t enter widespread use until TL7, but they’re invented at early TL6!
The first attempt to upgrade the manually powered Gatling design (see Gatling M1874, p. 127) was an 1890 experiment involving an external motor attached to an M1889 Gatling. Improvements soon followed – Dr. Gatling himself patented a 10-barreled, water-cooled gun with an electric motor inside its bronze housing. The M1893 Electric Gatling Gun’s cyclic rate was a marvelous 3,000 shots per minute (RoF 50!), a feat that would remain unrivalled until the M61 Vulcan (see below) appeared in the 1950s. The weapon was designed for naval use, as a ship’s generators could supply the necessary electrical power, but would suit an alternate-history airship or a steam-powered walker wonderfully. A single prototype was built. It fed from a 104-round Accles drum ($650, 21 lbs.) and required external power (1 kW).
Many TL6 machine guns – and some TL6-8 autocannon – have barrels sheathed in water-filled cooling jackets. The water turns to steam as it cools the barrel. Typically, every 500 rounds fired consumes a pint of water. If firing continues after the water is gone, the barrel will start to deteriorate; see Sustained Fire (pp. 85-86).
Some mid-TL6 MGs have a condenser canister connected to the jacket by a flexible steam hose. Steam condenses to liquid water in the canister, allowing reuse. This multiplies the number of rounds per pint by 10.
In the absence of water, the gun crew needs to use some liquid to cool the gun. During WWII, Finnish and Russian MGs had “snow caps” that let the crew fill the jacket with snow instead of water. In North Africa, motor oil was used as a coolant. A common solution everywhere was to urinate into the cooling jacket!
Firing a couple of belts will quickly bring the water to a boil. This was used as a handy way to get a fresh brew of tea or coffee in both World Wars… assuming clean water was used, of course.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. For MMGs, HMGs, and autocannon, Empty Weight (EWt.) and Cost assume neither ammo nor mount (e.g., a tripod), but ammo weight follows the slash as usual; see the weapon description for details. For LMGs and GPMGs, Weight includes ammunition.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range EWt. RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 6 Maxim Mk I, .450 MH 5d+2 pi+ 4 500/3,200 40/30 10 250(5) 12M -7 2 $7,000 1 [1] 6 Maxim 1-pdr, 37x94mmR 5dx2(0.5) pi++ 4 480/4,500 410/55 5 25(5) 31M -11 2 $15,000 1 follow-up 2d [2d] cr ex 6 Electric Gatling M1893, .30-40 6d+1 pi 5 1,000/4,200 300/21 50! 104(5) 29M -10 2 $25,000 1 [1, 2] 6 Colt Model 1895, 6x60mmR 5d pi 6 700/3,000 35/7.4 8! 120(5) 17M -7 2 $5,000 1 [1] 6 Maxim MG08, 7.92x57mm 7d+1 pi 6 1,000/4,400 59.4/16 8! 250(5) 19M -8 2 $7,000 1 6 Vickers Mk I, .303 6d+2 pi 6 800/3,300 40/16 10! 250(5) 18M -7 2 $5,500 1 6 Hotchkiss Mle 1914, 8x50mmR 7d pi 6 1,100/4,800 57.1/1.9 8! 30(5) 19M -8 2 $5,000 1 6 Browning M1917, .30-06 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,500 36.8/15.3 10! 250(5) 17M -7 2 $5,200 1 6 Oerlikon Typ S, 20x110mmRB 6dx3 pi++ 6 1,700/6,400 135/62 5 60(5) 26M -10 3 $21,000/$410 1 follow-up 2d-1 [1d] cr ex 6 Browning M1919A4, .30-06 7d pi 5 1,100/4,500 30.9/15.3 10! 250(5) 17M -6 2 $5,700 1 6 Browning M2HB, .50 Browning 7dx2 pi+ 5 1,800/7,600 84/35 8 100(5) 21M -9 2 $15,000 1 6 KPZ DShK-38, 12.7x108mm 7dx2 pi+ 5 1,800/7,700 73.3/16.9 8! 50(5) 20M -9 2 $12,000 1 7 Mauser MG151/20, 20x82mm 7dx2 pi++ 5 1,200/6,900 92.4/48.2 12! 100(5) 22M -9 2 $14,700 1 follow-up 2d [1d] cr ex 7 ZiD KPV, 14.5x114mm 8dx2(2) pi inc 6 2,100/8,800 108/20.9 10 40(5) 23M -9 2 $18,000 1 7 GE M61A1, 20x102mm 6dx3 pi++ 5 1,250/5,300 251/Var. 66!/100! Var. 29M -11 2 $40,000 1 [2, 3] follow-up 2d [1d] cr ex 7 GE M134, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 61/322 33!/66! 4,500(10) 20M -7 2 $20,000 1 [2, 3] 7 Molot NSV-12.7, 12.7x108mm 7dx2 pi+ 5+2 1,800/7,700 55/16.9 12! 50(5) 19M -8 2 $14,000 1 8 Hughes M242, 25x137mm 6dx4 pi++ 6+3 2,400/3,300 244/38 3 30(5) 28M -11 2 $60,000 1 [2, 3] follow-up 3d+2 [1d+1] cr ex
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 6 Madsen M/03, 8x58mmR 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 25.4/2.9 7! 30(3) 11B† -7 2 $4,500/$35 1 6 Lewis Mk I, .303 6d+2 pi 5 800/3,300 32.8/4.5 9! 47(5) 12B† -7 2 $3,000/$260 1 6 ZB ZB26, 7.92x57mm 7d pi 5 1,100/4,400 21.2/1.8 8 20(3) 11B† -7 2 $4,100/$31 1 6 ZiD DP, 7.62x54mmR 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 26.2/6.2 9 47(5) 11B† -7 2 $3,000/$260 1 6 Rheinmetall MG34, 7.92x57mm 7d pi 5 1,100/4,400 31.6/5 15 50(5) 12B† -7 2 $4,200 1 6 Enfield Bren Mk I, .303 6d+2 pi 5 800/3,300 25.6/2.8 8 30(3) 11B† -7 2 $5,000/$33 1 7 Rheinmetall MG42, 7.92x57mm 7d-1 pi 5 1,100/4,400 30.5/5 20! 50(5) 12B† -7 2 $3,400 1 7 ZiD RPD, 7.62x39mm 6d pi 5 600/3,900 16.3/5.3 11! 100(5) 10B† -6 2 $1,500 1 7 Saco M60, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 29.6/6.6 9! 100(5) 12B† -7 2 $6,000 1 7 FN MAG, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 30.5/6.6 12! 100(5) 12B† -7 2 $6,900 1 7 KMZ PK, 7.62x54mmR 7d+1 pi 5 1,100/4,800 28.4/8.6 11! 100(5) 11B† -7 2 $2,500 1 7 MAC AA7.62NF1, 7.62x51mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 28.5/6.6 15! 100(5) 11B† -7* 2 $6,000 1 7 H&K HK21A1, 7.62x51mm 6d+2 pi 5 900/3,750 26.2/7.9 13 100(5) 11B† -6 2 $5,800 1 8 FN MINIMI, 5.56x45mm 5d pi 5 800/3,500 22.6/7 12! 200(5) 11B† -6 2 $3,300 1
Notes:
[1] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
[2] Needs power source (see description).
[3] Very Reliable. Won’t malfunction unless lack of maintenance lowers Malf. (see p. B407).
There are three ways to use artillery:
Direct Fire: Shooting at targets visible to the gunner at ranges up to around 3,000 yards. This is mainly done with TL5 artillery, and with TL6-8 tank, antitank, and antiaircraft guns. The gunner uses his Gunner skill (p. B198) for the attack roll, and the attack obeys Ranged Attacks (pp. B372-374) in all respects.
Observed Indirect Fire: Firing at targets that aren’t visible to the gunner, who uses the Artillery skill (p. B178), as directed by an observer, who has the Forward Observer skill (p. B196). This is typical of TL6-8 artillery on the offense. The Forward Observer rules below replace the standard ranged-combat rules.
Predicted Indirect Fire: Attacking an area of ground, water, or air that the gunner can’t see but that’s identified on a map. This uses the Artillery skill and the rules under Attacking an Area (p. B414). This is often done by TL6-8 artillery on the defense or in preplanned surprise attacks (where the fire has been corrected before the battle begins), and by antiaircraft artillery. The gunner already knows what area he’ll hit and suffers no -10 for firing blind, but he can’t react to the target moving out of the “beaten zone.”
Weapons other than cannon – notably mortars (pp. 145-147) and machine guns (pp. 129-137) – can use indirect fire. Use these rules for all weapon types.
Indirect fire is essentially “blind” – the gunner can’t see his target or the effects of his fire. He fires at -10 to skill and doesn’t benefit from his gun’s Acc. A forward observer (FO) acts as the gunner’s eyes, directing the fire from far away. To do so, though, he must be able to talk to the gunner! He can shout over short distances, but he’ll generally require a field telephone or a radio. The FO also has to know his location and that of the gun, which requires a Navigation roll.
Modifiers: +1 for a compass or +3 for a GPS system; -10 without a map.
Locating the target then requires a Forward Observer roll.
Modifiers: All Vision modifiers (p. B358) except ordinary range modifiers; a special range penalty of -3 per 500 yards or fraction thereof between FO and target, dividing range by the magnification of any vision aid and by two for a rangefinder (up to its maximum range) before assessing the penalty; the targeting program bonus for any fire-control computer (including a TL8 handheld model).
Locating the target and reporting its coordinates takes 2d+5 seconds. The gunner may then fire his first shot at -10, modified by the margin of success or failure on the Forward Observer roll. If the FO can observe the fall of the shot with respect to the target, he can provide the gunner with corrections on later shots; each correction requires another Forward Observer roll and 2d+5 seconds. Add the margin of the second roll to that of the first; failure can erase earlier bonuses. The FO may attempt as many rolls as necessary to whittle the -10 attack penalty down to 0, but can’t give the gunner a bonus.
Critical success on any Forward Observer roll reduces the penalty to 0 immediately. Critical failure indicates a “friendly fire” incident of the GM’s choosing. The FO might even bring rounds down on his own position!
Example: Corporal Calvin Knox is a FO with the Arkansas National Guard. He’s looking at “The Thing” in Martha Johnson’s kitchen garden. He has a grid map of the area and calls in corrections to his battery over a field telephone. His position is 1,500 yards from the target and he has 6x binoculars. Since 1,500/6 = 250, effective distance is under 500 yards, for -3. His Forward Observer skill is 14, so he rolls against 11. He gets a 10, succeeding by 1. The first shot is at -9 instead of -10.
A DX-based Forward Observer roll can replace any Artillery or Gunner roll to use a laser designator to guide a “smart” shell or bomb.
Long-range artillery fire often takes a while to arrive at the target. Flight time is subject to many variables: projectile shape and weight, propellant charge, propellant temperature and pressure, barrel length and wear, air temperature and pressure, etc. Cannon fire high- and low-angle “missions”; this also impacts time of flight. High-angle missions use a high trajectory in order to clear intervening obstacles. They’re typical of mortars and heavy artillery firing at ranges over 3,000 yards. Low-angle missions follow a shallower trajectory, and arrive sooner and with fewer variables. Low-angle fire is typical of direct-firing tank guns, autocannon, and artillery at ranges up to 3,000 yards.
In reality, time-of-flight calculations are complicated and apply even to long-range small-arms fire. For game purposes, ignore the issue for small arms. For heavy weapons, it’s reasonable – if imprecise – to use a flight time of one second per 500 yards for low-angle missions or one second per 250 yards for high-angle missions. Thus, it can take a long time for a round to reach its target – which might not even be there any more!
Example: The Arkansas National Guard executes a low-angle observed-fire mission using a battery of M1897 guns (pp. 138, 140). “The Thing” is 6,900 yards away, and 6,900/500 = 13.8, so it takes 14 long seconds for the shells to arrive. That’s too late to save Corporal Knox from The Thing’s tentacles . . .
20mm and that are incapable of automatic fire – whether intended for direct fire, indirect fire, or both. They’re normally mounted on artillery carriages or vehicles. This definition encompasses a wide variety of armaments. Examples described here range from whaling guns to tank guns (see Chapter 8 for the tanks themselves). At TL5, cannon aren’t significantly different from their TL3-4 predecessors, except for minor improvements in materials, construction, and ammunition. A gunner in Marlborough’s army (early 1700s) would have been equally at home with Gustavus Adolphus at Breitenfeld (1631) or with Meade at Gettysburg (1863). Late in TL5, rifled artillery pieces enter service. In 1858, France became the first country to adopt rifled cannon. At TL6, many innovations emerge, among them smokeless propellant (p. 185), obturation, recuperation, breechloading, fire direction, and forward observation. Obturation is sealing the chamber against loss of gas upon firing; it allows a given charge of propellant to send the projectile much farther. Recuperation involves fitting hydraulic or mechanical devices to the gun to absorb recoil and keep it in position. Breechloading is loading from the rear, which increases reloading speed and offers mounting advantages. Fire direction and forward observation improve the utility of guns beyond line of sight. At TL7-8, cannon are again little changed. The gradual improvements involve mountings (particularly selfpropelled carriages and vehicles), ammunition, and targeting equipment.
This smoothbore, muzzleloading harpoon gun was probably the most common model used by 19th-century American and British whalers. It was typically pintlemounted on whaling boats and yachts. It had twin caplocks (as a failsafe in case one didn’t function in the harsh saltwater environment), protected by a hinged brass cover when not in use, and fired a 4.5’-long barbed harpoon attached to a 30-yard 1” rope. Bourges Mle 1853, 12-pounder (France, 1853-1860) The Canon-Obusier de 12 livres Modèle 1853 (“12-pounder gun model 1853”) was a smoothbore, muzzleloading bronze field gun used by the French army. Most European armies had employed similar pieces since the 18th century, including in the Napoleonic Wars. The U.S. Army adopted the weapon as the M1857 Gun-Howitzer, but it was better known as the “Napoleon.” The name wasn’t honorary – the cannon’s designer was Louis Napoléon III, Emperor of the French! The M1857 was the main gun of both sides in the American Civil War. The North made about 1,180; the South, over 600. Considered a light gun, the Napoleon mounted on a twowheeled artillery carriage (2,600 lbs. with gun). This hooked up behind a two-wheeled limber (1,380 lbs.), which was drawn by six horses. The limber held the ammo chest, with 32 rounds, friction primers, and 6’ of slow-match fuse (p. 187). The mount had limited elevation and thus range; the cannon’s theoretical maximum range was 3,100 yards. The standard crew was seven. Besides iron balls (in table), the Napoleon fired LE (Dmg 6dx5(0.5) pi++ with 6d [5d+2] cr ex linked), shrapnel (Dmg 6d pi+, Range 2,000, RoF 1×78, Rcl 1), and canister (Dmg 6d pi++, Acc 3, Range 80/600, RoF 1×27, Rcl 1). During the American Civil War, a friction primer and lanyard were used more often than match fuse for ignition. Elswick 2.5” RML Mk I Screw-Gun, 2.5” Caplock (U.K., 1879-1889) The Royal Artillery adopted the 2.5” Rifle, Muzzle- Loaded, Mark I – or 7-pounder – as a mountain gun. It disassembled for transportation on pack animals, the main parts being the 201-lb. breech assembly and the 199-lb. barrel. These components screwed together – the nickname “Screw-Gun” was inevitable. While popular, the piece was an outdated black-powder muzzleloader in the age of smokeless-powder breechloaders, and the heaviest mountain gun of its time. Its telltale smoke cloud didn’t matter when battling “savages,” but proved disastrous against the Boers in 1899-1902. The British retired it in 1903, but Indian soldiers still used it in WWI and Omani troops employed it in 1958. Five mules could carry the disassembled gun and twowheeled carriage (923 lbs. with gun) as five 250-lb. loads; ammunition required additional animals. A trained crew of seven could assemble and load the piece in 20 seconds. The mount had limited elevation – a distinct disadvantage in mountain artillery. Besides LE (in table), the Screw-Gun fired shrapnel (Dmg 2d+1 pi+, Range 3,300, RoF 1×88, Rcl 1), canister (Dmg 3d pi+, Acc 3, Range 80/1,700, RoF 1×78, Rcl 1), and illumination (375-yard radius lasting 30 seconds). A 132-lb. ammo box held six LE, eight shrapnel, and eight canister rounds. Schneider Mle 1897, 75x350mmR (France, 1898-1933) The famous “French 75” – officially, the Canon de 75mm Modèle 1897 – was the first modern artillery piece, breechloading and with full recuperation. The most widely used field gun of the early 20th century, some 17,000 were made. Greece, Poland, Romania, and Spain adopted it – as did the U.S., which acquired 4,300 as the M1897, beginning in 1917. The weapon saw use into WWII, and Third World countries such as Cambodia, Cameroon, and Mexico continued to field it in the 1980s.
The Mle 1897 mounted on a two-wheeled carriage (2,509 lbs. with gun) with a DR 15 gun shield. It came with a two-wheeled limber (1,820 lbs.) that held 72 rounds. Carriage and limber were linked and drawn by four horses or a truck (p. 239). The original mount had limited elevation and thus range, which increased to 9,200 yards if the trail was dug in. Improved carriages, introduced in the 1930s, extended range to 12,800 yards and added a 4x scope (+2 Acc). The piece required a crew of seven. The gun fired HE (in table), shrapnel (Dmg 2d-1 pi+, Range 6,100, RoF 1×270, Rcl 1), smoke (Dmg 6dx9(0.5) pi++, 20-yard radius lasting 2 minutes), mustard gas (Dmg 6dx9(0.5) pi++ with a 4d+2 cr ex follow-up, 20-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute), WP (Dmg 6dx9(0.5) pi++ with a 4d+2 [1d(0.2)] burn ex follow-up, 20-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute), and illumination (480-yard radius lasting 40 seconds). The U.S. Army also used an APEX round in WWII (Dmg 6dx6(2) pi++ with a 6d [4d-1] cr ex follow-up). APX SA17, 37x94mmR (France, 1917-1935) The SA17 was a quick-firing gun installed in WWI light tanks (p. 234) and in several French, Polish, and other armored vehicles between World Wars. Similar guns armed naval vessels. It was manually aimed and fired via a pistol grip and trigger, and typically loaded with HE (in table) or canister (Dmg 1d+1 pi++, Acc 3, Range 60/1,200, RoF 1×75, Rcl 1). APEX (Dmg 5dx2(2) pi++ with a 1d+2 [2d] cr ex follow-up) wasn’t commonly used until the 1920s, while APHC (Dmg 5dx3(2) pi++) was issued from 1935. Rheinmetall 3.7cm PaK, 37x249mmR (Germany, 1934-1941) The 3.7cm Panzerabwehrkanone (“3.7cm antitank gun”), often incorrectly called the PaK35/36, was Germany’s main antitank weapon at the start of WWII. Its limited penetration quickly earned it the bitter nickname Heeresanklopfgerät (“army door knocker”), but despite early obsolescence, it saw action until the end – eventually providing fire support at the Atlantic Wall. Some 15,200 were acquired. The gun was employed during the Spanish Civil War, widely exported (to China, Hungary, Italy, and Turkey, among others), and licensemade by Japan and Russia. Most of the era’s 37mm antitank guns were either based on the 3.7cm PaK or comparable in performance. Some early WWII light tanks carried similar ordnance. The 3.7cm PaK was mounted on a two-wheeled carriage (957 lbs. with gun) with a DR 15 gun shield and a 2.5x scope (+1 Acc). It required a crew of three. It fired APEX (in table), HE (Dmg 7dx4(0.5) pi++ with 3d [2d] cr ex linked), and – as of 1940 – APHC (Dmg 7dx4(2) pi++). A can holding 12 rounds weighed 55 lbs. In 1942, an oversized “rifle grenade” (pp. 193-194) became available. The 18.7-lb. StielGr41 had a 159mm HEAT warhead and was fired from the muzzle using a blank cartridge (Dmg 7dx2(10) cr ex with 7dx4 cr ex linked, Range 250/750).
RIA M2A1, 105x371mmR (USA, 1941-1983) This howitzer was typical of 20th-century light artillery – most Western armies employed it or similar guns from the 1910s on. Over 10,200 were built for the U.S. military, and more for export to at least 60 countries. It was made in Canada, South Korea, and Taiwan. In 1960, it was renamed the M101. The U.S. Army replaced it in the late 1980s. In the 1990s, many American ski resorts received a few to fire rounds at mountainsides to knock snow loose and prevent avalanches! The M2A1 was mounted on a two-wheeled carriage (4,475 lbs. with gun) with a DR 15 gun shield and a 4x scope (+2 Acc). It was drawn by a 2 1/2-ton truck (p. 239). The standard crew was seven. The howitzer’s primary round was HE (in table), but it also fired smoke (Dmg 6dx11(0.5) pi++, 34-yard-radius cloud lasting 3 minutes), WP (Dmg 6dx11(0.5) pi++ with a 5d [1d(0.2)] burn ex follow-up, 34-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute), illumination (800-yard radius lasting 1 minute), and leaflet (spreads 4”x6” leaflets over a 400-yard radius). In 1943, HEAT became available (Dmg 9d(10) cr ex with 6dx4 cr ex linked, Range 900/8,500) – and in 1965, beehive (Dmg 2d-1 cut, Range 12,700, RoF 1×8,000, Rcl 1). A wooden box holding two shells weighed 120 lbs. The M2A1 was mounted on several self-propelled armored artillery vehicles. Shortened, it was also installed in the AC-130H Spectre and AC-130U Spooky gunship aircraft. A variant, the M4 (1941-1945), armed some M4 Sherman tanks (p. 239): EWt. 955. Rheinmetall 7.5cm KwK40, 75x495mmR (Germany, 1942-1945) The 7.5cm Kampfwagenkanone 40 (“7.5cm fighting vehicle cannon model 1940”) was installed in German medium tanks (pp. 238-239). It was sometimes known as the KwK40 L48 after its barrel length. German tank destroyers and antitank mounts bore nearly identical ordnance. The low maximum range given for the KwK40 reflects the limited elevation of a tank mount; theoretical maximum range was 16,500 yards. Besides APEX (in table), it fired HE (Dmg 6dx10(0.5) pi++ with a 7dx3 [4d-1] cr ex followup) and HEAT (Dmg 6d(10) cr ex with 4dx4 cr ex linked). A wooden box held three rounds (82 lbs.). Watervliet M1, 76.2x539mmR (USA, 1942-1945) The “76mm” M1 was installed in American medium tanks (p. 239) and tank destroyers. It fired APEX (in table) and HE (Dmg 6dx12(0.5) pi++ with a 6dx2 [4d-1] cr ex follow-up). The British ROQF Mk V was similar, and used the same ammo. Watervliet M40, 106x607mmR (USA, 1953-1970) The M40 was a heavy counterblast recoilless rifle (see Light Antitank Weapons, pp. 147-149). The U.S. used it during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and exported it widely. It was also made in Brazil, India, Iran, Israel, Japan, Pakistan, South Korea, and Spain. The M40 mounted on a 194-lb. tripod or a vehicle (typically a jeep, pp. 236-237). To aim, the gunner used the builtin 3x scope (+1 Acc) and 12.7x77mm M8C spotting rifle (included in weight). The semiautomatic M8C was fixed coaxially with the gun barrel and fired a SAPHE-T bullet: Dmg 8d pi+ with a 1d [1d-2] cr ex follow-up, Acc 5+1, Range 1,300/5,500, RoF 3, Shots 10(3). If it hit the target – resulting in a flash and a puff of smoke – the gunner knew the M40 was lined up and could fire the main barrel with the assurance that the shell would strike the intended target (+4 to Gunner skill). In 1997, an 11-lb. computer sight (+2 Acc scope, +3 Acc laser rangefinder, Night Vision 7, +1 Gunner, p. 157) became available. Besides HEAT (in table), the M40 fired HESH (Dmg 6dx7(0.5) pi++ with 8dx5 cr ex linked) and, from 1965, beehive (Dmg 2d+2 cut, Range 3,300, RoF 1×6,000, Rcl 1). In the 1990s, an MS-HEAT shell was offered (Dmg 6dx2(10) cr ex with a 6dx7(10) cr ex follow-up and 6dx4 cr ex linked). A wooden box holding two shells weighed 134 lbs. The weapon had a significant backblast (p. 147): 7dx2 burn. DTAT MR60CS 61, 60mm (France, 1961-1970) The Mortier à 60mm Cloche Special Modèle 1961 was a breechloading, trigger-fired gun/mortar installed in armored cars (p. 240) and boats. It was capable of both direct and indirect fire. It fired HE (in table), HEAT (Dmg 4dx4(10) cr ex with 6d cr ex linked), buckshot (Dmg 1d+1 pi, Range 40/900, RoF 1×132, Rcl 1), smoke (Dmg 5dx2(0.5) pi++, 15-yard-radius cloud lasting 2 minutes), and illumination (300-yard radius lasting 30 seconds). Motovilikha D-81TM Rapira, 125x408mmR (Russia, 1977-) Also known as the 2A46M, Degtyarev’s Rapira (“Rapier”) is a smoothbore gun installed in various Russian main battle tanks (p. 244). It’s usually linked to a 22-round autoloader, which feeds two-part, semi-consumable cased (p. 164) ammo with a metal base cap. The weapon has also been produced in Czechoslovakia, India, Iraq, Poland, Romania, and Yugoslavia. Besides HEAT (in table), it fires APFSDS (Dmg 6dx30(2) pi++ inc) and HE (Dmg 6dx19(0.5) pi++ with a 6dx6 [6d+1] cr ex follow-up). In 1982, APFSDSDU became available (Dmg 6dx33(2) pi++ inc); in 1988, MS-HEAT (Dmg 6dx2(10) cr ex with a 6dx7(10) cr ex follow-up and 6dx4 cr ex linked); and as of the 1990s, MF (Dmg 3d pi-, Range 150/1,800, RoF 1×4,800, Rcl 1).
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. Empty Weight (EWt.) and Cost assume neither ammo nor mount, but ammo weight follows the slash as usual.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range EWt. RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Greener Harpoon Gun, 1.5” Caplock 5dx2 imp 3 30/120 75/40 1 1(20) 26M -8 5 $2,000 3 5 Bourges Mle 1853, 12-pounder 6dx5 pi++ 2 400/2,000 1,230/15 1 1(30) 52M -13 5 $20,000 1 5 Elswick “Screw-Gun,” 2.5” Caplock 6dx5(0.5) pi++ 4 630/4,000 400/7.4 1 1(30) 44M -11 8 $10,000 1 follow-up 6d [3d-1] cr ex 6 Schneider Mle 1897, 75x350mmR 6dx9(0.5) pi++ 5 2,100/6,900 1,008/20 1 1(3) 52M -13 6 $40,000 1 follow-up 5dx3 [4d-1] cr ex 6 APX SA17, 37x94mmR 5dx2(0.5) pi++ 4 520/3,300 260/1.4 1 1(3) 28M -10 2 $15,000 1 follow-up 2d [2d] cr ex 6 Rheinmetall 3.7cm PaK, 37x249mmR 7dx4(2) pi++ 5+1 1,600/7,700 430/2.9 1 1(3) 38M -10 4 $30,500 1 follow-up 2d [2d] cr ex 6 RIA M2A1, 105x371mmR 6dx11(0.5) pi++ 5+2 4,100/12,200 1,064/40 1 1(4) 60M -13 10 $327,000 1 follow-up 5dx5 [5d+1] cr ex 6 Rheinmetall KwK40, 75x495mmR 6dx10(2) pi++ 6+1 2,700/8,900 1,090/23 1 1(3) 53M -14 6 $72,500 1 follow-up 6d [4d-1] cr ex 6 Watervliet M1, 76.2x539mmR 6dx10(2) pi++ 5+1 4,900/16,100 1,200/24 1 1(3) 54M -14 6 $65,000 1 follow-up 5d [4d-1] cr ex 7 Watervliet M40, 106x607mmR 6dx6(10) cr ex 5+1 2,900/8,500 289/38 1 1(4) 24M -12 1 $40,000 1 [1] linked 6dx4 cr ex 7 DTAT MR60CS, 60mm 7dx2(0.5) pi++ 2+2 260/2,900 40/3.8 1 1(3) 18M -7 2 $10,000 1 follow-up 9d [3d] cr ex 7 Motovilikha D-81TM, 125x408mmR 6dx7(10) cr ex 5+3 3,500/10,300 4,180/73 1/8 22 84M -16 10 $100,000 1 linked 6dx4 cr ex Notes: [1] Hazardous backblast (see description).
The “hand mortar,” an idea almost as old as gunpowder, is a TL4 innovation. At TL7, it’s revived to develop a weapon more accurate than rifle grenades (pp. 193-194) to bridge the gap between the maximum range of thrown hand grenades (pp. 190-193) and the minimum range of mortars (pp. 145-147). The resulting firearm, dubbed the “grenade launcher,” fires projectiles that bear no resemblance to hand or rifle grenades. The TL7 or TL8 grenade launcher fires stubby cartridges – developed from TL6 flare-pistol rounds – that can carry a wide variety of warheads. Grenade launchers grow in popularity at mid-TL7, driven by the introduction of designs that can mount under a rifle barrel without interfering excessively with the gun’s handling. Multi-shot and automatic versions soon follow. By TL8, grenade launchers are the most important smallunit support weapons after MGs. With less-than-lethal munitions, they also see widespread antiriot use. Walther Leuchtpistole, 26.5x103mmR (Germany, 1934-1944) The Leuchtpistole (“flare pistol”) was a smoothbore, break-open pistol used widely by the German military and merchant marine. Hundreds of thousands were adopted or copied by other armies, and many nations introduced similar devices. Its 40 different signal cartridges included illumination (100-yard radius lasting 30 seconds), colored flares, signal smoke, and whistling rounds (indicating gas attack). By 1942, HEAT (Dmg 4d(10) cr ex with 3d cr ex linked), HE (Dmg 2d+1 [1d+1] cr ex), and HE-AB (Dmg 2d+1 [1d+1] cr ex, Range 10) were available. The HE-AB shell was intended for close defense of the dead angles of tanks and bunkers. Fired out of a hatch, it exploded about 6’ above the ground, 10 yards away. The German navy also used the Walther SLD (1936- 1945), a double-barreled, stainless-steel pistol: Wt. 6.3/0.4, RoF 2, Shots 2(3i), Bulk -3, Cost $650. Both barrels can be fired simultaneously at no penalty. Loaded with army-issue HE or HEAT rounds, it would be a potent weapon . . . Colt M79, 40x46mmSR (USA, 1961-1971) The first modern grenade launcher – nicknamed “Blooper” or “Thumper” for the noise it made – was a simple, hinged-breach device resembling a big-bore, singlebarreled shotgun. While reasonably accurate, it had the disadvantage that the grenadier was effectively armed with a single-shot weapon. The M79 was standard issue for U.S. troops in Vietnam until superseded by underbarrel designs. Some 350,000 were made and widely exported. It was also produced in South Africa and South Korea. For projectiles other than HE, see Grenade Launcher Ammo (p. 143). Colt M203, 40x46mmSR (USA, 1969-) This launcher mounts under the barrel of M16-series rifles (p. 117). Like those weapons, it’s widely exported. The M203 has been license-made or duplicated in Canada, China, Egypt, Iran, Italy, South Korea, and Turkey; copies are frequently modified to mount under other rifles, such as the Chinese QBZ95, Egyptian AKM, or Turkish G3A3. The M203 fires the same rounds as the M79 (above), but the breechloading design – which involves sliding the barrel forward to load – means it cannot use long grenades. The RM Equipment M203PI (1987-) is more flexible and can mount under a variety of shoulder arms, including the Steyr AUG (p. 118) and H&K MP5A3 (p. 123): Wt. 2.7/0.5. The M203A2 (1999-) is a shorter, quick-detach launcher that mounts under the Colt M4A1 (pp. 119-120) on a rail (p. 161): Wt. 3.1/0.5. The TAPCO CM2037 (1991-) is a smoothbore copy chambered in 37x122mmR, which means that civilians can own it without paperwork: Wt. 4.7/0.37, Cost $225, LC3. See Grenade Launcher Ammo (p. 143) for warheads other than HE, and to learn which rounds are “long” and/or available in 37x122mmR. Buck HAFLA DM34, 35mm (Germany, 1970-) The Handflammpatrone (“hand flame cartridge”) is a pocket incendiary: a simple, disposable aluminum barrel that launches a red phosphorus-filled grenade. The Belgian and German armies adopted it – mainly to blind tanks – and issued it in a 4.1-lb. plastic pouch holding three. They retired it in the early 21st century. The HAFLA DM34 has a folding handle and trigger, and takes two Ready maneuvers to prepare for firing. Treat the projectile as WP (p. 172), with a 7-yard-radius smoke cloud lasting one minute. KBP AGS-17 Plamya , 30x28mmB (Russia, 1971-1994) The Automatischeskyi Granatomyot Stankovyi-17 Plamya (“mounted automatic grenade launcher-17 Flame”) was a selective-fire weapon that mounted on a 26-lb. tripod ($3,000). It was widely exported, and also made in Bulgaria, China, and Serbia. The AGS-17 fed from a 29- round disintegrating belt (20.2 lbs., or 31.9 lbs. in drum) and fired HE-SD. It had a 2.2-lb. 2.7x scope (+1 Acc). H&K HK69A1, 40x46mmSR (Germany, 1976-) The HK69A1 is a break-open grenade launcher with a retractable stock – the German equivalent of the M79 (see above). As the Granatpistole (“grenade pistol”) or GraPi, it was the German military’s squad grenade launcher from the late 1970s until superseded by the AG36 (p. 144). It can be carried in a belt holster. Look for it in the film Ronin. The Mehrzweckpistole 1 (“multi-purpose pistol 1”), or MZP1, is a variant in widespread service as a police weapon. Both 40x46mmSR and 37x122mmR versions are available. For details on ammo types, see Grenade Launcher Ammo (p. 143). KBP GP-25 Kostyor, 40mm VOG-25 (Russia, 1979-) The Granatomyot Podstvolnyi-25 Kostyor (“underbarrel grenade launcher-25 Bonfire”) mounts under the AK-74 and other Kalashnikovs (p. 114). It has been widely exported, and also made in Bulgaria, Pakistan, and Serbia. The GP-25 is a muzzleloader, like a mortar, and the grenade is “caseless” in that the propellant is contained in the hollow rear of the grenade. It fires HE (in table), smoke (8-yardradius cloud lasting 30 seconds), baton (Dmg 1d+1(0.5) cr dkb, Range 20/250), and tear gas (Dmg 1d+1(0.5) cr dkb, 8- yard-radius cloud lasting 20 seconds). In 2001, HEDP became available (Dmg 5d-1(10) cr ex with 4d [2d] cr ex linked).
Saco MK 19 MOD 3, 40x53mmSR (USA, 1980-) The U.S. and many export countries introduced the MK 19 MOD 3 automatic grenade launcher on a large scale. Egypt and South Korea make it under license. It arms HMMWVs (pp. 242-243), trucks, APCs, boats (pp. 241-242), and helicopters (pp. 240-241). With a 21-lb. cradle adapter, it can mount on the 44-lb. tripod ($3,500) of the Browning M2HB (p. 133) as well. The MK 19 MOD 3 feeds from a disintegrating belt in a can clamped to the gun, holding either 32 rounds (25.4 lbs., or 44 lbs. in can) or 48 rounds (38 lbs., or 61.6 lbs. in can). While HE grenades are available (Dmg 5d [2d] cr ex), the usual load is HEDP (in table). In 2001, an MF round became available (Dmg 1d-1 pi-, Range 100/1,200, RoF 6×115, Rcl 1) – and in 2002, an ABF round (Dmg 1d-2 pi-, Range 2,200, RoF 6×400, Rcl 1). The weapon can mount a 7.5-lb. 6.5x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 5, 2xXS/30 hrs.) or, from 1997, a 5.5-lb. 10x thermal sight (+3 Acc and Infravision, M/12 hrs.). The original NOSL MK 19 MOD 0 (1967), used on patrol boats (pp. 241-242) during the Vietnam War, had Malf. 16, EWt. 46, and RoF 8, and fired only HE. Milkor MGL, 40x46mmSR (South Africa, 1983-) The MGL has a clockwork-powered revolver cylinder, a folding stock, and an integral collimating sight (+1 to skill). More than 33,000 have been made, and it’s copied in Croatia and India. Many Third World police and military forces use it. It can’t chamber long grenades. The improved MGL-140 (2005-), license-made in the U.S. and adopted as the M32 by the U.S. Marine Corps, can fire long grenades, and also features sight and accessory rails (p. 161): Wt. 16.2/3. See Grenade Launcher Ammo (see box) for projectiles other than HE, and to learn which rounds are considered “long.”
A rare civilian design intended for police, the MM1 had a spring-loaded 12-shot revolver cylinder, a pistol foregrip, and no shoulder stock. Reloading was slow (three Ready maneuvers to put each grenade in its chamber, plus four Ready maneuvers to wind the spring). Both 40x46mmSR and 37x122mmR versions were available, but only the 37mm model could chamber long rounds; see Grenade Launcher Ammo (see box). Few MM1s were made – but look for it in Terminator 2.
The MM1 was a development of the Manville Gas Gun (1938-1943), which fired 1” flare cartridges: Dmg 1d+1(0.5) cr, Range 30/100, Wt. 18.8/3.2, Shots 18(5i), ST 11†, LC4. Only tear gas rounds (4-yard-radius cloud lasting 20 seconds) were made for it. This weapon arms the mercenaries in the film The Dogs of War, loaded with a fictional HE grenade: Dmg 2d+1 [1d+1] cr ex.
Foster-Miller WebShot Launcher, 37x122mmR (USA, 1999-2004) The WebShot Launcher is a disposable, one-shot launcher for a net grenade (p. 143). Each factory-loaded unit consists of a sealed, smoothbore barrel with a folding pistol grip/trigger. It is 1’ long when unfolded and prepared for firing (two Ready maneuvers). Police agencies in Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. acquired either this device or a net round to use in their existing grenade launchers. H&K AG36, 40x46mmSR (Germany, 1999-) The AG36 is an underbarrel grenade launcher designed for the H&K G36 rifle and G36K carbine (p. 121). It has its own pistol grip and is side-opening, allowing it to accept grenades of all lengths. For rounds other than HE, see Grenade Launcher Ammo (p. 143). The AG36 is in service with the German and other militaries. More than 30,000 have been made, including minor export variants. The L17A2 (2003-) attaches to the Enfield L85A2 (see Enfield L85A1, p. 118); the M320 (2006-), to the Colt M4A1 (pp. 119-120) and M16A4 (see Colt M16A1, p. 117). GD M307, 25x59mmB (USA, 2008-) This lightweight automatic grenade launcher is scheduled to replace the U.S. military’s M2HB machine gun (p. 133) and MK 19 MOD 3 grenade launcher (p. 143). It can mount on a 13-lb. tripod ($2,550) and on vehicles – including trucks, APCs, boats, and helicopters. Its double trigger lets the shooter change fire modes instantly (see Automatic Weapons, pp. 82-83). The M307 feeds from a disintegrating belt in a can clamped to the side, which holds 31 rounds (13.4 lbs., or 16 lbs. in can). In addition to HEDP (in table), it fires HE-AB (Dmg 3d [1d+1] cr ex) and thermobaric-AB (Dmg 6d cr ex). It includes an 8.6-lb. computer sight (M/32 hrs.) with 3x magnification (+1 Acc), thermal imaging (Infravision), a head-up display (HUD) for annotated systems information and the ballistic solution reticle, a 4,400-yard laser rangefinder (+3 Acc, requires one Ready maneuver to use), and a targeting program (+1 Gunner, needs one Ready maneuver to program the round).
Exchanging bolt, feed, and barrel – which takes five minutes and an Armoury (Heavy Weapons) roll – converts the M307 into a HMG that fires .50 Browning: Dmg 7dx2 pi+, Acc 5+3, Range 1,800/7,600, EWt. 30.6/35, RoF 4, Shots 100(5), ST 16M, Bulk -8, Rcl 2.
The TL8 “individual combat weapon” combines a grenade launcher with a short-ranged automatic weapon, fused ammunition, and a full-solution fire-control system.
A consortium headed by ATK of the U.S. and H&K of Germany developed this design for the U.S. Army as the XM29 Objective Individual Combat Weapon (OICW). It was to enter service as the M29 ICW in 2008, but the project was canceled in 2005 due to weight, effectiveness, and budget problems. It appears in Die Another Day.
The semiautomatic grenade launcher component is a bullpup design that feeds from a plastic magazine. Ejection can be switched from right to left, making it fully ambidextrous. It fires a 20x28mm HE-AB grenade with four fuse modes:
• Airburst. The main mode (on table), intended for attacking foes behind cover. The grenade explodes in the air, showering fragments from above; see Airburst (pp. 174-175). The shooter can select the distance at which it bursts.
• Impact. The grenade detonates on impact – a direct point attack.
• Delayed Impact. Allows shooting through light doors, etc. The grenade explodes immediately behind the obstacle.
• Window. Used to fire into buildings from the outside. The grenade detonates inside, 1.5 yards behind the exterior wall.
The latter three modes use Dmg 3d(0.5) cr with a 1d+1 [1d] cr ex follow-up. In any mode, the grenade must travel a minimum range of 30 yards before it arms. A HEDP round wasn’t planned, but would have Dmg 4d(10) with 1d [1d] cr ex linked.
The underbarrel component is a 5.56x45mm carbine based on the H&K G36 (p. 121): Dmg 4d pi, Acc 4+2, Range 600/2,500, Wt. 15/1, RoF 6, Shots 30+1(3), ST 10†, Bulk -6, Rcl 2. It uses M16-type magazines. Fire modes include single shots and two-round limited bursts. The carbine detaches (takes three Ready maneuvers) for use by itself, but then lacks a shoulder stock: Acc 3, Wt. 5.1/1, ST 9†, Bulk -3.
The weapon includes a 2.5-lb. mini-computer sight (2xS/10 hrs.), which features 2x optical magnification (+1 Acc), a video channel with 2x zoom and thermal imaging (+1 Acc and Infravision), a head-up display (HUD) for annotated systems information and the ballistic solution reticle, a 2,200-yard laser rangefinder (+3 Acc, requires one Ready maneuver to use), and a targeting program (+1 Guns, needs one Ready maneuver to program the grenade). The user chooses the fuse mode and lases the target for range, an induction ring in the chamber programs the grenades, the computer displays the new aiming point, and the grenadier fires. The video camera can send images to the soldier’s HUD or, via radio, to upper echelons.
The following rounds are available for 40x46mmSR grenade launchers. An asterisk (*) means the ammo is also available in 37x122mmR, with the same stats. A dagger (†) indicates a long warhead that won’t fit into all launchers; check the weapon description. For RoF, n is the weapon’s RoF when firing its usual ammo (see Grenade Launchers Table, p. 145). A box of 72 40x46mmSR grenades weighs 54 lbs. Baton*† (p. 168). A rubber baton: Dmg 1d+1(0.5) cr dkb, Range 10/110. $10. LC3. Beanbag* (p. 168). A pellet-filled sack: Dmg 1d+1(0.2) cr dkb, Acc 0, Range 10/150. $15. LC3. Camera†. This unique round, available from 2005, fires a parachute-supported miniature digital camcorder (p. 43) that can transmit live images from directly below it for up to five minutes. Transmission range is one mile. $400. LC4. HE (p. 169). The weapon table assumes standard TL7 HE shells. A TL8 shell, with improved fuse and filler, has Dmg 6d+2 [2d] cr ex. $10. LC1. HEDP (p. 170). The TL7 HEDP round the U.S. military introduced in 1971 has Dmg 4d(10) cr ex with 4d+2 [2d] cr ex linked. The improved TL8 round, available since the 1980s, has Dmg 7d(10) cr ex with 6d [2d] cr ex linked. $20. LC1. HEDP, Extra-Powerful † (p. 170). In 2006, a TL8 HEDP round with the extra-powerful option (p. 165) became available: Dmg 7d(10) cr ex with 6d [2d] cr ex linked, Range 30/880. Multiply ST by 1.2. $30. LC1. Illumination*† (p. 171). This parachute flare illuminates a 185-yard radius for 40 seconds. At close range, before it deploys, it inflicts 1d+1(0.5) cr dkb. $25. LC4. Multi-Flechette (MF) (p. 174). The U.S. military tested this in the 1960s, but didn’t adopt it: Dmg 1d-3 pi-, Acc 2, Range 100/1,200, RoF nx45, Rcl 1. $20. LC3. Net*†. Available from 1999, this round bursts a few feet from the muzzle and releases a weighted 10’x10’ net of aramid fiber strands to catch animals or humans (up to SM 0). The target is caught in the net (see Nets, p. B411) and suffers stun effects from the deployment explosion (treat as a stun grenade; see Schermuly Stun Grenade, p. 193). Range 10. At ranges under 5’, the unexploded projectile inflicts 1d+1(0.5) cr dkb. $50. LC3. Rubber Shot* (p. 174). In 2001, the U.S. Army adopted a rubber shot round: Dmg 1d-3(0.2) cr, Acc 2, Range 20/120, RoF nx48, Rcl 1. $10. LC3. Shot (p. 173). A TL7 birdshot round has Dmg 1d-1(0.5) pi-, Acc 2, Range 30/600, RoF nx20, Rcl 1. An improved TL8 version has Dmg 1d-1(0.5) pi-, Acc 2, Range 30/600, RoF nx50, Rcl 1. $5. LC3. Silent HE. In 1967, the U.S. Navy SEALs tested a HE grenade with the “silent” option (p. 165): Dmg 4d+1 [2d] cr ex. Range is unchanged. $100. LC1. Smoke*† (p. 171). Available in several colors: Dmg 1d+1(0.5) cr dkb, 8-yard-radius cloud lasting 25 seconds. $15. LC3. Tear Gas*† (p. 171). Produces an 8-yard-radius cloud lasting 20 seconds. A direct hit inflicts Dmg 1d+1(0.5) cr dkb. $15. LC3. Thermobaric† (p. 170). In 2004, the U.S. Army introduced a thermobaric round: Dmg 8d cr ex. $40. LC1.
Mortars are short-barreled cannon used for hightrajectory indirect fire. The earliest versions, at TL4, were massive bombardment pieces intended mainly for sieges. At TL6, the mortar becomes an entirely different weapon. The defining feature of the TL6-8 mortar remains its indirect-fire capability, but it’s a much lighter piece, often man-portable. The bombs it hurls are more effective than gun artillery shells of similar caliber. It’s typically fired by dropping rounds down the tube, allowing high rates of fire for short periods – again, outperforming equivalent gun artillery. However, mortars can’t match the range and precision of gun artillery. Stokes ML 3” Mk I, 81mm (U.K., 1916-1936) The British Stokes 3” (actually 3.2”) trench mortar was the first modern mortar. It was a simple, influential design. Similar weapons were later produced in almost every country with any sort of industrial base. The Stokes 3” consisted of a smoothbore tube (43 lbs.) with a fixed firing pin, resting on a small base plate (28 lbs.) to keep recoil from driving it into the ground, and supported by a bipod (37 lbs.). It required a three-man crew. The gunner simply dropped rounds down the tube; the bombs fired as they strike the pin. The only widely issued ammo was HE (in table). The U.S. Army’s Watervliet M1 (1937-1945) was of the improved Stokes-Brandt Mle 1927/31 pattern, developed in France and licensed worldwide: EWt. 136. It disassembled into barrel (44.5 lbs.), bipod (46.5 lbs.), and base plate (45 lbs.). It could be transported on a 71-lb. hand cart (see Pulling and Dragging, p. B353). Two 81mm HE shells were available for the M1, a light bomb (Dmg 6dx2 [4d] cr ex, Max 3,300, WPS 6.9) and a heavy bomb (Dmg 6dx4 [4d] cr ex, Max 2,600, WPS 10.6), along with WP (Dmg 4d [1d(0.2)] burn ex, 23-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute). 82-BM-37, 82mm (Russia, 1937-1955) The 82mm Batalyonny Minomyot obrazets 1937g (“82mm battalion mortar model 1937”) – another Stokes- Brandt pattern – was typical of Russian designs used from the 1930s on. Widely exported, it was also copied in Bulgaria, China, Egypt, and Poland. It saw heavy service in Korea, Vietnam, and various African and Middle Eastern wars.
The 82-BM-37 fired HE (in table), smoke (23-yardradius cloud lasting 2 minutes), and illumination (550-yard radius for 35 seconds). A case with three bombs weighed 26 lbs. Eastern 82mm mortars could also fire Western 81mm bombs, but not vice versa. The weapon required a threeman crew. Royal Ordnance ML 2” Mk II, 51mm (U.K., 1938-1945) Designed for the British Army by the Spanish manufacturer ECIA, this mortar was an extremely simple device for squad-level use. Commonwealth infantry used it from WWII until the 1980s. It’s still manufactured in India. The 2” mortar consisted of a short, smoothbore tube with a tiny spade for a base. It had no sights; the only targeting aid was a white line painted down the length of the tube, and the gunner adjusted fire by observing the rounds falling. It was fired by trigger – not by dropping bombs down the tube. In addition to HE (in table), it lobbed smoke (12-yard-radius cloud lasting 70 seconds), colored flares, and illumination (270-yard radius lasting 45 seconds). The Watervliet M3 (1942-1945) was a licensed variant installed in American tank turrets to provide smoke cover: EWt. 18, ST 14M. It had three fixed ranges: 35, 75, and 150 yards. The Royal Ordnance 51mm L10A1 (1981-1988) is the modern replacement for the 2” mortar: Dmg 8d [2d+2] cr ex, Range 55/900, EWt. 13.8/1.7. 120-PM-38, 120mm (Russia, 1938-1943) The 120mm Polkovoy Minomyot obrazets 1938g (“120mm regiment mortar model 1938”) was about as big as an infantry mortar could get and still be mobile. It was normally towed on a two-wheeled, 495-lb. carriage, with a light truck as prime mover. It disassembled into three loads for pack-animal transport: barrel (220 lbs.), bipod (136 lbs.), and base plate (207 lbs.). It was copied in Germany and Romania. In addition to HE (in table), the 120-PM-38 fired smoke (42-yard-radius cloud lasting 2 minutes), WP (Dmg 6d [1d(0.2)] burn ex, 42-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute), and illumination (500-yard radius lasting 45 seconds). A box of two bombs weighed 88 lbs. The mortar required a three-man crew. A cheaper replacement, the 120-PM-43 (1943-1955), was distributed all over the Communist world: EWt. 605. It was also made in China and Egypt. Watervliet M2, 60mm (USA, 1938-1942) The M2 was typical of the light mortars fielded by most armies from the 1930s on. A licensed copy of the French Stokes-Brandt Mle 1935, it was itself copied widely. The Americans encountered Chinese-made versions in Korea and Vietnam. The mortar disassembled into three parts for transport: barrel (12.8 lbs.), bipod (16.4 lbs.), and base plate (12.8 lbs.). The tube could even be braced against the ground and fired without its bipod or plate (Acc 0, ST 10†). This portability led to the M2 and similar light mortars becoming popular with guerrillas. The M2 fired HE (in table), WP (Dmg 2d [1d(0.2)] burn ex, 15-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute), and illumination (350-yard radius lasting 30 seconds). A wooden box holding 10 bombs weighed 49 lbs. Hotchkiss-Brandt Commando, 60mm (France, 1966-) Even lighter and more portable than earlier 60mm light mortars, the Commando is designed for fast-moving lightinfantry forces. It gives raiding parties, patrols, and small advisory groups effective support without compromising their mobility. Its low weight decreases accuracy and range, but it’s a support weapon that can go anywhere with the troops (Holdout -4). Similar designs are made worldwide. The Commando lacks both bipod and elaborate sights, but has a bubble sight and a sling with range markers to allow for correct elevation. The firer holds the tube with one hand, grasping the canvas hand-protector wrapped around the barrel, and drops bombs with the other. The Commando fires HE (in table), smoke (15-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute), and illumination (350-yard radius lasting 35 seconds).
PRB NR8113 FLY-K, 52mm (Belgium, 1983-1990) The FLY-K is perhaps the most unusual modern mortar: it uses the captive-piston principle to fire without smoke or flash, and with little noise (see Silent Ammunition, p. 165), concealing the firer’s position. The propellant is consumed entirely within the shell. Lightweight and compact (Holdout -4), with a simple but effective spirit sight, the FLY-K is an ideal choice for ambushers, assassins, and deep-penetration patrols. It wasn’t a commercial success, but it has been license-made in France since the 1990s, and the French army adopted it as a squad-level weapon. Besides HE (in table), it fires WP (Dmg 2d [1d(0.2)] burn ex, 12-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute) and illumination or IR-illumination (275- yard radius lasting 30 seconds).
Mortars Table See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. Empty Weight (EWt.) and Cost exclude ammo but include any bipod or base plate mentioned in the weapon description; ammo weight follows the slash as usual. ARTILLERY (CANNON) (IQ-5) TL Weapon Damage Acc Range EWt. RoF Shots ST Cost LC Notes 6 Stokes ML Mk I, 81mm 6dx3 [4d] cr ex 2 275/1,600 108/11.7 1 1(4) 21M $5,000 1 [1] 6 82-BM-37, 82mm 6dx2 [4d] cr ex 2 110/3,400 123/7.4 1 1(3) 21M $6,000 1 [1] 6 RO ML Mk II, 2” 6d [2d+2] cr ex 1 50/530 9/2.25 1 1(2) 9† $500 1 [1] 6 120-PM-38, 120mm 6dx5 [6d] cr ex 3 500/6,500 563/35.2 1 1(5) 32M $16,000 1 [1] 6 Watervliet M2, 60mm 7d [3d] cr ex 2 100/2,000 42/3.2 1 1(2) 15M $2,500 1 [1] 7 Hotchkiss-Brandt Commando, 60mm 9d [3d] cr ex 1 100/1,200 17/3.2 1 1(2) 11† $750 1 [1, 2] 8 PRB FLY-K, 52mm 8d [2d+2] cr ex 2 220/770 10/1.7 1 1(2) 8† $900 1 [1, 2] Notes: [1] First Range figure is minimum range, not 1/2D. [2] Sling swivels (p. 154).
At early TL7, the dominance of armored fighting vehicles spurs the development of light antitank weapons (LAWs) for infantry. Most designs use shaped-charge (HEAT) warheads, which are ideal for penetrating heavy armor even at maximum range. Alongside these warheads appear two manportable means of delivering them: the rocket launcher and the recoilless rifle.
An infantry rocket launcher consists of an unguided rocket fired from a lightweight tube. A recoilless rifle is a light cannon that’s open at both ends; this allows a blast of high-velocity gas vented out the back (known as counterblast) to balance the recoil of a shell fired out the front. Some TL8 weapons eject less-hazardous metal powder, plastic flakes, or water (called countermass) instead. See also Backblast (see box).
Both types of LAW are light enough for one man to carry and fire – although often, an assistant carries spare ammo and helps reload. Rocket launchers are the cheaper and lighter of the two, while recoilless rifles are more accurate and tend to have a wider selection of ammo types. Weapons of both varieties are in widespread use throughout TL7-8.
Firing most LAWs and missiles creates a hazardous backblast behind the shooter: a discharge of hot gas and debris that can ignite flammables and reveal the firer’s position. Backblast damage is given in the description of each weapon. It affects a 60° cone behind the launcher.
For rockets and counterblast weapons, damage is burning. Apply full damage out to two yards per die of backblast damage, half damage out to six yards per die.
For countermass weapons, damage is crushing. Range is only two yards per die.
In small, enclosed spaces, the walls, ground, etc., can reflect the blast back at the firer. Launches are only “safe” outdoors, or from within well-ventilated bunkers and buildings with ample clearance. These weapons are also extremely loud. Firing them indoors without hearing protection can stun the shooter (roll HT-4), and temporary Hard of Hearing is almost guaranteed.
GE M1A1 Bazooka, 2.36” (USA, 1943-1944) This simple rocket launcher was the first LAW, firing a 2.36” (60mm) rocket with a HEAT warhead. Cobbled together by an American ordnance officer, it was nicknamed “Bazooka” after the improvised musical instrument of a then-popular comedian. Half a million were made. The Bazooka’s stock held the batteries required for ignition (2xS), plus two spares. A HEAT rocket costs $215; three came in a carrying bag. Backblast: 1d+1 burn. The M20 Super Bazooka (1950-1957) was a larger launcher that fired a 3.5” (89mm) rocket: Dmg 7dx3(10) cr ex with 5dx4 cr ex linked, Range 10/950, Wt. 22/9, ST 9†, Bulk -7, Cost $2,500. It disassembled into two loads: 4.5 lbs. and 8.5 lbs. Instead of batteries, it used a magneto generator – a squeezer operated by the gunner – for ignition. An improved projectile had Range 10/1,300, Wt. 20.5/7.5. It’s still made in Brazil.
HASAG Panzerfaust 30, 44mm (Germany, 1943-1944)
Late in WWII, the German infantry’s principal LAW was the Panzerfaust (“tank fist”), a 150mm over-caliber warhead launched from a 44mm tube using the recoilless principle. It was so light and simple that it was issued not to a special crew but to any soldier who might face a tank. There were several models, with different ranges and warheads; the most common was the Panzerfaust 30, with a 30-yard effective range. Six million were made. The weapon was exported to Axis countries, including Finland, Hungary, and Romania. The Panzerfaust came preloaded (four per 50-lb. wooden box) and was discarded after use. The user needed three seconds to unfold the sights and prepare to fire. Backblast: 1d burn.
The Panzerfaust 60 (1944-1945) had better range: Range 10/150, Wt. 13.4.
Firestone M18, 57x305mmR (USA 1945-1953)
This recoilless rifle entered service late in WWII; American airborne units used it in Europe and Japan. It was widely exported afterward, and went on to see action in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. It was also made in China. The M18 could be fired from the shoulder, from its integral bipod and monopod (treat as a bipod; see p. B270), or from the 61-lb. tripod of the Browning M1917A1 ($2,700). It incorporated a 3x scope (+1 Acc). In addition to HEAT (in table), it could fire HE (Dmg 7dx3 cr with a 4dx2 [3d] cr ex follow-up, Range 800/5,000), WP (Dmg 7dx3(0.5) cr with a 1d+1 [1d(0.2)] burn ex follow-up, 14-yard-radius cloud lasting 1 minute, Range 750/4,600), and canister (Dmg 2d pi+, Acc 3+1, Range 50/1,100, RoF 1×154, Rcl 1). Four rounds in a box weighed 39 lbs. Backblast: 5d burn.
This shoulder-fired recoilless rifle was made by the Swedish Carl Gustaf arsenal. It saw worldwide use. Most Commonwealth and NATO armies adopted it, and it was produced under license in Germany, India, and Japan. The M2 included a 2-lb. 2x scope (+1 Acc). It fired HEAT (in table), HE (Dmg 6dx2 cr with a 6dx5 [4d+1] cr ex followup), illumination (285-yard radius lasting 30 seconds), and smoke (Dmg 6dx2(0.5) cr with a 2d+1 cr ex follow-up, 10- yard-radius cloud lasting 10 seconds, Range 450/1,400). Backblast: 4d burn.
The FFV M3 (1986-) is a lightened version firing a heavier round: Wt. 26.4/6.6, ST 9†, Cost $2,600. The U.S. Army Rangers adopted it in 1990; the U.S. Navy SEALs, in 1997. It includes a 1.5-lb. 3x scope (+1 Acc). In 1998, a 4.8-lb. mini-computer sight with 3.5x magnification and a 1,650- yard laser rangefinder became available (+1 Acc scope, +3 Acc rangefinder, +1 Guns, 6xVS/1,000 rangings). The M3 fires improved HEAT (Dmg 6dx6(10) cr ex with 5dx2 cr ex linked), HEDP (Dmg 6dx4(10) cr ex with 6dx3 [4d+1] cr ex linked), and, from 2002, MF (Dmg 1d-2 pi-, Acc 3+1, Range 100/1,200, RoF 1×1,100, Rcl 1).
The Reaktivniy Protivotankoviy Granatomyot-2 (“rocket antitank grenade launcher”) was an improved Panzerfaust (p. 147) with better sights and ergonomics. The basic Communist antitank weapon until the 1960s, it was widely exported. The Vietnamese called it Bazooka 40 Ly, whence its nickname “B-40” among U.S. soldiers. China made it under license.
The RPG-2 fired an 82mm over-caliber HEAT warhead. Rocket and warhead had to be assembled before firing (three Ready maneuvers). A HEAT round costs $80. Backblast: 1d+2 burn.
Since its introduction, this improved version of the RPG-2 (above) has seen extensive use by Communist forces as an antitank and antibunker weapon. At least nine million have been made worldwide, including in Belarus, Bulgaria, China, Egypt, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Pakistan, Romania, Ukraine, and Zimbabwe. Soldiers who faced it in Vietnam, Afghanistan, Angola, Somalia, Chechnya, or Iraq called it simply the “Arr-Pee-Gee” and disliked it intensely. Guerrilla movements everywhere seem to have an infinite supply of them, and fire them at anything – including trucks, helicopters, and bunkers. Armed robbers have used RPG-7s to attack armored money transports.
The RPG-7 usually mounts a 1.1-lb.battery-illuminated 2.7x scope (+1 Acc and removes -1 from darkness penalties, XS/10 hrs.); a 2-lb. 4x night sight (+2 Acc and Night Vision 6, XS/10 hrs.) can replace this. Rocket and warhead must be assembled before firing (three Ready maneuvers). In addition to the original 85mm HEAT grenade (in table) and 40mm HE grenade (Dmg 5dx2 [2d] cr ex), several moremodern rounds appeared in the 1990s, including 93mm HEAT (Dmg 6dx8(10) cr ex with 6dx3 cr ex linked, Wt. 19.6/5.7), 105mm MS-HEAT (Dmg 6dx2(10) cr ex with a 6dx7(10) cr ex follow-up and 6dx3 cr ex linked, Wt. 23.8/9.9), and 93mm thermobaric (Dmg 6dx9 cr ex, Range 20/750, Wt. 24.2/10.3). A HEAT round costs $150; three come in an 18.7-lb. rucksack. Backblast: 1d+2 burn. HEC M72A2 LAW, 66mm (USA, 1963-1974) The M72A2 LAW was a disposable rocket launcher that fired a HEAT warhead. Originally made for the U.S. military, it was issued liberally even at squad level. It was widely exported, and produced under license in Norway and Turkey. At least seven million were made. Collapsed, the M72 was only 2’ long (Holdout -3). The operator needed three seconds to extend the tube and unfold the sights. Backblast: 1d+2 burn. All variants up to the M72A3 (1974-) have similar performance. The M72A4 (1993-) has improved penetration: Dmg 6dx5(10) cr ex with 6dx2 cr ex linked, Wt. 5.5, Cost $1,750. The M72A6 (1993-) and M72A7 (1997-) have HEDP warheads: Dmg 6dx2(10) cr ex with 6dx2 [3d+1] cr ex linked, Wt. 7.6, Cost $2,200. The Russian 64mm Bazalt RPG-18 (1971-) is a copy of the M72A2: Dmg 6dx5(10) cr ex with 6dx2 cr ex linked, Wt. 5.9, Cost $500. MBB Armbrust, 67mm (Germany, 1979-1988) The Armbrust (“crossbow”) was a disposable LAW that fired a HEAT warhead. MBB designed it, but PRB actually manufactured it for that company, in Belgium. Singapore produced it under license. It saw use during the Yugoslavian Civil War. The Armbrust had almost no hazardous backblast. The countermass consisted of plastic flakes, allowing the weapon to be fired from enclosures with a wall as close as one yard behind. The captive-piston arrangement trapped sound, flash, and smoke (apply the rules for Silent Ammunition, p. 165, but use the 256-yard line on the Hearing Distance Table, p. 158). Backblast: 1d+1 cr. KBP RPO-A Shmel, 93mm (Russia, 1988-) The Reaktivnyi Pekhotnyi Ognemet-A (“rocket-propelled infantry flamethrower”) or Shmel (“bumblebee”) is a disposable rocket launcher that fires a thermobaric warhead. The Soviet infantry adopted it in 1988 and used it in Afghanistan and Chechnya. Full production didn’t begin until 2001, however. The weapon was exported to China, Congo, and India. Each RPO-A has a padded shoulder strap, and two launchers can be clipped together to make a backpack. The weapon takes 30 seconds to prepare for firing. Backblast: 3d burn. The RPO-Z (1988-) is the same launcher firing a WP rocket: Dmg 6d [1d(0.2)] burn ex. FFV AT4, 84mm (Sweden, 1985-1996) The AT4 (“eighty-four”) is a disposable rocket launcher that fires a HEAT warhead. It has been widely exported, and from 1987 superseded the M72-series (see left) with the U.S. Army (which calls it the M136). A wooden box holding five weighs 113 lbs. Backblast: 4d burn. The Bofors AT4CS (1996-) is a variant that can be safely fired from within such confined spaces as bunkers: Wt. 16.5, Cost $2,700. Its countermass consists of water and antifreeze. Backblast: 2d cr. Dynamit-Nobel PZF3, 60mm (Germany, 1990-) The Panzerfaust 3 is a modern reloadable LAW. More than 250,000 have been made, some in Switzerland. Users include Germany, Italy, Japan, and South Korea. The PZF3 mounts a 1.5-lb. 2.5x scope (+1 Acc). In 1998, a 4.8-lb. mini-computer sight with 3.5x magnification and a 1,650-yard laser rangefinder became available (+1 Acc scope, +3 Acc rangefinder, +1 Guns, 6xVS/1,000 rangings). A 2.6-lb. add-on night sight (Night Vision 7, 2xS/30 hrs.) can augment either scope or computer sight. The PZF3 fires a 110mm over-caliber HEAT warhead. The round comes in a disposable launching tube, to which the reusable firing unit (5.1 lbs., including scope) is attached. A loaded tube weighs 27.7 lbs. with transport protection, 23.3 lbs. when stripped down to fire. A HEAT round costs $500. A 110mm MS-HEAT projectile is also available (Dmg 6dx4(10) cr ex with a 6dx9(10) cr ex followup and 6dx4 cr ex linked, Range 10/1,000, Wt. 29.3/24.2). The PZF3 uses powdered iron as countermass, reducing the danger area behind the weapon. The shooter can fire it safely indoors. Backblast: 2d cr.
Light Antitank Weapons Table See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. GUNS (LAW) (DX-4 or most other Guns at -4) TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 7 GE M1A1 Bazooka, 2.36” 4dx2(10) cr ex 0 10/700 16.1/3.4 1 1(4) 8† -6 1 $1,800 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 5dx2 cr ex 7 HASAG Panzerfaust 30, 44mm 6dx3(10) cr ex 0 10/80 11.5 1 1 8† -5 1 $400 1 [1, 2, 4] linked 5dx5 cr ex 7 Firestone M18, 57x305mmR 4dx2(10) cr ex 4+1 10/4,800 54/5.5 1 1(4) 11B† -8 1 $2,000 1 [1, 2] linked 4dx2 cr ex 7 Carl Gustaf M2, 84x250mmR 6dx5(10) cr ex 4+1 10/1,100 38.9/5.7 1 1(4) 10† -7 1 $2,000 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 6dx3 cr ex 7 KMZ RPG-2, 40mm 7dx2(10) cr ex 1 10/550 10.3/4 1 1(4) 9† -6 1 $750 1 [1, 2] linked 6dx2 cr ex 7 KMZ RPG-7, 40mm 6dx4(10) cr ex 2+1 10/1,000 18.9/5 1 1(4) 9† -7 1 $2,300 1 [1, 2] linked 7dx2 cr ex 7 HEC M72A2, 66mm 6dx3(10) cr ex 1 10/1,100 5.2 1 1 6† -4 1 $500 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 6dx2 cr ex 8 MBB Armbrust, 67mm 6dx4(10) cr ex 1 10/1,500 13.9 1 1 8† -5 1 $1,000 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 6dx2 cr ex 8 KBP RPO-A, 93mm 6dx9 cr ex 2 20/1,100 24.2 1 1 9† -6 1 $3,600 1 [1, 2, 3, 5] 8 FFV AT4, 84mm 6dx6(10) cr ex 2 10/2,300 14.7 1 1 8† -5 1 $1,600 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 7dx2 cr ex 8 Dynamit-Nobel PZF3, 60mm 6dx9(10) cr ex 2+1 20/1,200 28.4/23.3 1 1(4) 10† -7 1 $7,200 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 6dx4 cr ex
Notes:
[1] Hazardous backblast (see description).
[2] First Range figure is minimum range, not 1/2D.
[3] Sling swivels (p. 154).
[4] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
[5] Thermobaric. Divide damage by (2 x distance in yards from center of blast).
At TL3-4, unguided rockets are employed for artillery bombardment, launched from carts and ships. With refinements, rockets remain in use at TL5-8. They arm ground vehicles, naval vessels, and (at TL6+) aircraft.
In 1844, William Hale invented a rocket that relied on spinning propulsion for stability, dispensing with the guidance stick of earlier designs. The Hale rocket was widely used in colonial wars. The 9-pounder version was popular, as it was light enough for pack animals to carry and a viable weapon in swamps and jungles where even light mountain guns were of no use. It was launched from a “rocket machine” – a trough on a tripod – in land service, or from shipboard tubes in naval service.
A mule could carry two packs of six rockets. Rockets, metal-lined wooden cases, and harness weighed 202 lbs. The disassembled trough and associated carrying equipment added 32 lbs. A HE rocket costs $55.
The BM-13-16 – better known as the Katyusha (“little Katie”) and dubbed Stalinorgel (“Stalin’s organ”) by German troops under its bombardment – was one of the first multiple rocket launchers in military service. The 16-shot launcher fired the M-13 artillery rocket. Intended primarily for Soviet trucks (p. 239), it saw some use on tanks and naval vessels as well. It was short on range and accuracy, but put down a huge amount of explosive. A HE rocket costs $100.
The M10 was a light, three-shot rocket pod designed to fire the 4.5” M8 aircraft rocket from U.S. Air Force fighters (p. 238). Multiple rocket launchers installed on ground vehicles also launched this rocket. A HE rocket costs $200. M260, 70mm Hydra (USA, 1979-)
This is a light, seven-shot rocket pod designed to launch the 70mm (2.75”) MK 66 Folding-Fin Aerial Rocket (FFAR) from U.S. Army helicopters (p. 241). Other U.S. services – and export customers – adopted similar launchers to arm ground-attack aircraft. In addition to HE (in table), warheads include heavyweight HE (Dmg 6dx5 [3d+2] cr ex), HEDP (Dmg 6dx3(10) cr ex with 5dx4 [3d+2] cr ex linked), WP (Dmg 5d [1d(0.2)] burn ex, 19-yard-radius cloud lasting 5 minutes, Range 70/3,300), and beehive (Dmg 2d+2 cut, Range 450/7,000, RoF 7×1,179, Rcl 1). In 1993, the latter was adopted for use from special-ops helicopter gunships (p. 241). A HE rocket costs $1,300.
From 2006, Hydra rockets are available with a laser guidance package (see Semi-Active Homing Weapons, p. B412): Acc 4, Range 300/10,500, Cost $3,900. The M158 (1965-1979), used during the Vietnam War, fired the 2.75” MK 4 FFAR rocket: Dmg 7dx3 [3d+2] cr ex, Range 70/6,500, EWt. 40/21.
See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. Empty Weight (EWt.) and Cost exclude ammo; the weight of one rocket follows the slash.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range EWt. RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 5 Hale 9-pr Mk I, 2.5” 6dx2 [3d] cr ex 0 200/3,400 27/8.4 1 1(5) 13M -8 1 $200 1 [1, 2] 6 BM-13-16, 132mm 6dx3 [6d+2] cr ex 1 500/9,400 3,150/92 2 16(60i) 44M -13 1 $10,000 1 [1] 7 M10, 4.5” 5dx5 [6d-1] cr ex 1 300/4,000 82/38 3 3(10i) 20M -11 1 $1,800 1 [1] 8 M260, 70mm 7dx3 [3d+2] cr ex 2 70/10,500 35/23 7 7(10i) 22M -9 1 $4,200 1 [1]
Notes:
[1] First Range figure is minimum range, not 1/2D.
[2] Unreliable. Malfunctions on 16+ (see p. B407).
Guided missiles receive steering commands in flight. They appear at early TL7, and improve rapidly in the areas of guidance, propulsion, and warhead design. The first guided missiles were steered by an operator using a joystick, but by late TL7, most missiles merely require him to keep the launcher’s sights trained on the target while the system’s electronics do the rest. Wire, TV, and radio guidance – the most popular options – appear at roughly the same time, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
The most common application of these technologies is the antitank guided missile (ATGM), developed in the 1940s to arm infantry and light vehicles with a weapon capable of defeating tanks at long ranges. (An ATGM would likely be effective against dragons and other thick-skinned monsters, too!)
Homing missiles actually seek the target with little or no operator involvement. These, too, are an early TL7 development. The most popular systems are IR-, radar-, and imaging IR-homing designs, and semi-active laser- and radar-homing weapons. Such missiles first see use against aircraft.
Attacks with guided and homing missiles alike require the Artillery (Guided Missile) skill and use different rules from other ranged attacks; see Guided and Homing Weapons (pp. B412-413). Briefly, the first Range figure is the missile’s speed in yards/second – not its 1/2D range. The weapon moves this far each turn; thus, it can hit a target at this range on the turn it’s launched, but requires multiple turns to reach a more distant target. Don’t make the attack roll until the turn the missile reaches its target. The projectile closes at its listed speed until it reaches the target or travels a total distance equal to its Max range (that is, after Max/speed seconds, including the turn of firing). At Max range, it crashes or self-destructs.
Most missiles have a hazardous backblast; see Backblast (p. 147).
This French design was the first successful wire-guided HEAT missile. Widely adopted, the SS.11 was manufactured under license in Germany, India, and the U.S. Some 180,000 were made. The weapon was one of the first antitank missiles to be fired from a helicopter: the French used it in the Algerian War; the U.S. Army adopted it as the AGM-22 and used it from the UH-1B “Huey” in Vietnam; and the British deployed it in the 1982 Falklands War. Airlaunched versions were usually designated AS.11 (AS means air-sol or air-to-surface, while SS means sol-sol or surface-to-surface).
One SS.11 in its carrying case weighed 110 lbs. The case’s lid doubled as a launcher. Backblast: 6d burn.
Known in the West as the “AT-3b Sagger,” the Malyutka (“baby”) is the world’s most widespread wire-guided antitank missile, adopted by more than 45 armies. It’s a good weapon, but its long flight time makes it easier to avoid than later missiles. The basic design has remained in production into the 21st century due to its low cost and the ease of upgrading the guidance system and warhead. Licensed and unlicensed copies have been made in Bulgaria, China, Czechoslovakia, Iran, Romania, Taiwan, and Yugoslavia.
The missile comes in a buoyant fiberglass case (15 lbs.) that one man can lug to a forward firing position – an arrangement that led to the weapon being dubbed the “suitcase missile” during the Yom Kippur War (1973). Before firing, the HEAT warhead and rocket motor must be joined, the missile inserted into the launching rail on the lid, and the 8x sight and control stick deployed (takes 100 seconds). Backblast: 4d burn.
The original 9M14 Malyutka (1963-1968), or “AT-3a Sagger,” had a less-powerful warhead: Dmg 6dx5(10) cr ex with 6dx5 cr ex linked.
The upgraded 9M14P Malyutka-P (1968-1995), or “AT-3c Sagger,” added improved semiautomatic guidance (Acc 3+3) and was intended for vehicular installation, such as on the BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicle.
The 9M14P2 Malyutka-2M (1996-), or “AT-3d Sagger,” adds an MS-HEAT warhead and improved motor: Dmg 6dx2(10) cr ex with a 6dx9(10) cr ex follow-up and 7dx5 cr ex linked, Acc 3+3, Range 135/3,300, Wt. 15/29.
The BGM-71 TOW series – a wire-guided missile with a HEAT warhead – is the West’s most common heavy antitank missile system. It has been sold to some 40 countries, and Pakistan and Switzerland manufacture it under license. Improved versions quickly superseded the original BGM-71A, and over 620,000 missiles of various models have been made. The TOW had an impressive kill rate when first used in combat in Vietnam, and this was confirmed in the 1991 and 2003 Gulf Wars.
TOW stands for “Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided,” which sums up the weapon’s operation rather well. The missile is fired from the M220 tripod launcher. It arms a variety of vehicles, including jeeps (pp. 236-237), HMMWVs (pp. 252-243), and helicopters (pp. 240-241).
The M220 launcher weighs 172 lbs. with tripod or 151 lbs. without (as when mounted on a vehicle). It’s powered by a 24-lb. set of batteries (2xL/50 firings) and includes a 13x sight (+3 Acc). A 20-lb. add-on thermal-imaging sight (Infravision, L/2 hrs.) became available in 1974. A missile costs $14,000. Backblast: 8d burn.
The BGM-71D TOW 2 (1982-1987) had an improved 152mm HEAT warhead: Dmg 6dx12(10) cr ex with 8dx5 cr ex linked, Range 360/4,165, Wt. 172/62. Over 77,000 were made. A missile costs $25,000.
The BGM-71F TOW 2B (1992-) attacks from overhead (see p. B415), flying over the target and firing two 147mm EFP warheads down into the more lightly armored top, each doing 6dx4(2) pi++: Range 336/4,165, Wt. 172/64. Minimum range is 165. By 2005, over 37,000 had been made. A missile costs $50,000.
The BGM-71H TOW 2 Bunker Buster (2004-) has a HE warhead: Dmg 6dx9 [7d+2] cr ex, Range 336/4,165, Wt. 172/64. Minimum range is 165. A missile costs $10,000.
The Missile d’Infanterie Léger Anti-char (“light antitank infantry missile”) is a (barely) man-portable, wire-guided missile with a HEAT warhead. In addition to developers France and Germany, 40 other countries operate it, including Iraq and Mexico. More than 10,000 launchers and 340,000 missiles were sold, and India, Italy, and the U.K. made the weapon under license. The British used it extensively to knock out bunkers in the Falklands and Iraq, which was expensive but effective.
The 36-lb. launching post includes a 7x sight (+2 Acc). A 17.4-lb. add-on thermal-imaging sight (Infravision, L/2 hrs.) became available in 1983. A missile costs $25,000. Backblast: 2d burn.
The MILAN 2 (1984-) has a 115mm HEAT warhead: Dmg 6dx12(10) cr ex with 7dx4 cr ex linked. A missile costs $30,000.
The MILAN 3 (1996-) has a 117mm MS-HEAT warhead (p. 170) with a 30mm precursor that penetrates explosive reactive armor: Dmg 7dx2(10) cr ex with a 6dx11(10) cr ex follow-up and 7dx4 cr ex linked, Wt. 37.2/28. A missile costs $35,000. McDonnell FGM-77A Dragon, 127mm (USA, 1975-1981) The FGM-77A Dragon was a man-portable, wireguided missile with a HEAT warhead, fired from the M47 launcher. The U.S. issued it as its standard guided antitank weapon for small infantry units until the late 1990s. A disappointing weapon with less performance than contemporary competitors, it was nevertheless widely exported. Some 200,000 were made. The M47 consisted of a disposable transport/launch tube with a bipod and a reusable 6.8-lb. command launch unit (CLU) with 6x magnification (+2 Acc). For night use, there was a 21.7-lb. CLU with 4x magnification and thermal imaging (+2 Acc and Infravision, M/2 hrs.). A missile costs $3,000. Backblast: 3d burn. Ford AIM-9L Sidewinder, 127mm (USA, 1978-1982) The AIM-9L Sidewinder was an IR-homing air-to-air missile with an ABF warhead (p. 174). Originally introduced by the U.S. Air Force, it was probably the most successful weapon of its kind. Some 16,000 were made in the U.S. alone. It was also produced in Germany and Japan, and widely exported. The original Philco AIM-9B Sidewinder (1956-1962) was less effective, featuring a HE warhead and an early homing system: Dmg 6dx8 [6d+1] cr ex, Acc 2, Range 632/3,800, Wt. 155. More than 95,000 were made, some in Germany. A missile costs $35,000. The Raytheon AIM-9X Sidewinder (2003-) is the latest version: Acc 5, Range 950/45,000, Wt. 188. A missile costs $75,000. The Ford MIM-72C Chaparral (1978-1981) was a version for surface-to-air use, typically mounted on the tracked M48A1 Chaparral air-defense vehicle. Some 21,000 missiles were made. Use the AIM-9L stats. The Vympel R-3S (1962-1973), NATO designation “AA- 2a Atoll,” was a Russian copy of the Sidewinder: Dmg 6dx8 [6d+1] cr ex, Acc 4, Range 900/8,400, Wt. 166. It was in turn copied in China and Romania. A missile costs $25,000. In all cases, backblast is 5dx2 burn.
The FIM-92A Stinger was a man-portable, IR-homing surface-to-air missile with a HE-AB warhead (pp. 174-175). Some 15,600 were made, and over 20 nations adopted it. The Stinger first saw action with the SAS during the Falklands War. From 1986, Afghan guerrillas used it against the Soviets. In the 1990s, the CIA unsuccessfully tried to buy back the remaining Afghan-held weapons.
The Stinger consists of a 29.2-lb. disposable launch tube containing the missile, attached to a reusable 4.4-lb. grip stock that accepts a 0.9-lb. “battery coolant unit” (BCU).
For night use, a 5.1-lb. add-on sight with 12x magnification and thermal imaging (+3 Vision and Infravision, M/6 hrs.) is available. Attaching a new BCU and launch tube to the grip takes 10 seconds. A missile costs $40,000. Before launch, the gunner inserts the BCU into the grip and turns on the 5.7-lb. IFF system (p. 229) on his belt. After he visually acquires his target, the IFF system interrogates it, if it’s within 20 miles; it takes one second to get an IFF response. The operator then activates the BCU (which provides 45 seconds of power) to cool the seeker head. This requires at least six seconds, during which time the user can attempt to track and lock onto the target. Lock-on allows the shooter to pull the trigger and activate the missile, which launches two seconds later. Backblast: 4d burn. The FIM-92C Stinger (1987-) has an improved seeker (Acc 5). It’s the most common variant, and is also licensed to Germany. About 60,000 have been made. A missile costs $45,000. RLM FGM-148A Javelin, 127mm (USA, 1996-) The FGM-148A Javelin is a man-portable, imaging IRhoming missile, fired from the M98A1 launcher. Its 127mm MS-HEAT warhead (p. 170) has an 80mm precursor that penetrates explosive reactive armor. The Javelin replaces the obsolete Dragon (p. 152) in U.S. service, and is also exported. The missile comes in a disposable container/launching tube, to which the 14.1-lb. command launch unit (CLU) is attached. This includes a 4x sight (+2 Vision) and a 9.2x thermal imager (+3 Vision and Infravision, M/4 hrs.) to acquire the target. The shooter can select whether the missile attacks normally or flies in a ballistic curve and strikes from above. The direct-attack mode can be used against slow, low-flying aircraft and helicopters, as the Javelin’s IR seeker will lock onto any motor vehicle. The top-attack feature (see p. B415) lets the weapon hit tanks where their armor is thinnest. A missile costs $85,000. Backblast: 3d burn.
Guided and Homing Missiles Table See pp. B268-271 for an explanation of the statistics. In all cases, first Range figure is speed in yards per second, not 1/2D. Weight is the launcher’s empty weight, with missile weight appearing after the slash, except as noted. Cost is launcher cost, unless noted otherwise; see weapon description for missile cost.
ARTILLERY (GUIDED MISSILE) (IQ-5) TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Cost LC Notes 7 Aérospatiale SS.11, 164mm 6dx8(10) cr ex 1+3 165/3,300 44/66 1 1(20) 17M $10,000 1 [1, 2, 3, 4] linked 6dx6 cr ex 7 Kolomna 9M14M Malyutka-M, 125mm 6dx7(10) cr ex 1+3 130/3,300 15/25 1 1(20) 13M $8,000 1 [1, 2, 3, 4] linked 7dx5 cr ex 7 Hughes BGM-71A TOW, 127mm 6dx8(10) cr ex 3+3 330/3,300 172/54 1 1(20) 21M $180,000 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 7dx5 cr ex 7 Euromissile MILAN, 103mm 6dx8(10) cr ex 3+2 220/2,200 36/26.4 1 1(20) 16M $100,000 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 6dx4 cr ex 7 McDonnell FGM-77A Dragon, 127mm 6dx8(10) cr ex 3+2 220/1,100 6.8/25 1 1(20) 10B† $16,000 1 [1, 2, 3] linked 7dx4 cr ex 7 Ford AIM-9L Sidewinder, 127mm 6d+1 pi 4 900/32,000 188 1×194 1(20) 22M $50,000 1 [1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7] 8 GD FIM-92A Stinger, 70mm 6dx3 [3d+2] cr ex 4 800/8,800 5.3/29.2 1 1(10) 10† $40,000 1 [1, 2, 5] 8 RLM FGM-148A Javelin, 127mm 6dx3(10) cr ex 6 220/2,200 14.1/35.1 1 1(10) 11B† $135,000 1 [1, 2, 5] follow-up 6dx11(10) cr ex linked 7dx4 cr ex Notes: [1] Missile has a minimum range: 30 for MILAN; 70 for TOW, Dragon, and Javelin (direct attack); 165 for Javelin (top attack); 220 for Stinger; 550 for SS.11 and 9M14M; 1,100 for Sidewinder. [2] Hazardous backblast (see description). [3] Guided attack (see p. B412). Gunner uses Artillery (Guided Missile) to attack. [4] Cost is for disposable carrying-case/launcher including one missile (SS.11, 9M14M), or for one ready-to-launch missile (Sidewinder). [5] Homing attack (see p. B413). Gunner uses Artillery (Guided Missile) to aim. [6] ABF warhead (p. 174) – a multiple-projectile attack with Rcl 1. [7] Vehicle-launched; weight is for missile only.
A “firearm” is any gun, rocket, or beam weapon that does not rely on muscle power. Guns are commonly available by TL4 and ubiquitous at TL5+. Beam weapons appear in late TL8 (mostly for vehicles), and may become common by TL9, ubiquitous at TL10+.
Pistol and Submachine Gun Table
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -2)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
4 Flintlock Pistol, .51 2d-1 pi+ 1 75/450 3/0.01 1 1(20) 10 -3 2 $200 3 4 Wheel-Lock Pistol, .60 1d+1 pi+ 1 75/400 3.25/0.01 1 1(20) 10 -3 2 $200 3 5 Derringer, .41 1d pi+ 1 80/650 0.5/0.1 1 2(3i) 9 -1 2 $100 3 5 Revolver, .36 2d-1 pi 1 120/1,300 2.5/0.24 1 6(3i) 10 -2 2 $150 3 6 Auto Pistol, .45 2d pi+ 2 175/1,700 3/0.6 3 7+1(3) 10 -2 3 $300 3 6 Auto Pistol, 9mm 2d+2 pi 2 150/1,850 2.4/0.4 3 8+1(3) 9 -2 2 $350 3 6 Revolver, .38 2d-1 pi 2 120/1,500 2/0.2 3 6(3i) 8 -2 2 $400 3 6 Snub Revolver, .38 1d+2 pi 1 120/1,250 1.5/0.2 3 5(3i) 8 -1 3 $250 3 7 Auto Pistol, 9mm 2d+2 pi 2 150/1,850 2.6/0.6 3 15+1(3) 9 -2 2 $600 3 7 Holdout Pistol, .380 2d pi 1 125/1,500 1.3/0.2 3 5+1(3) 8 -1 3 $300 3 7 Revolver, .357M 3d-1 pi 2 185/2,000 3/0.21 3 6(3i) 10 -2 3 $500 3 7 Revolver, .44M 3d pi+ 2 200/2,500 3.25/0.3 3 6(3i) 11 -3 4 $900 3 8 Auto Pistol, .44M 3d pi+ 2 230/2,500 4.5/0.6 3 9+1(3) 12 -3 4 $750 3 8 Auto Pistol, .40 2d pi+ 2 150/1,900 2.1/0.7 3 15+1(3) 9 -2 2 $640 3 9 Auto Pistol, 9mm 2d+2 pi 2 150/1,900 2/0.7 3 18+1(3) 9 -2 2 $800 3 [1]
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -4)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
9 Gyroc Pistol, 15mm 6d pi++ 1 1,900 1/0.4 3 4(3i) 9 -2 1 $200 3 [1, 2]
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -2)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
6 SMG, .45 2d+1 pi+ 3 190/1,750 15.7/4.9 13 50+1(5) 11† -4 3 $2,200 2 [3] 6 SMG, 9mm 3d-1 pi 3 160/1,900 10.5/1.5 8! 32(3) 10† -4 2 $700 2 [3] 7 Machine Pistol, 9mm 2d+2 pi 2 160/1,900 5.5/1.1 20 25+1(3) 12 -3 3 $900 2 [3] 7 SMG, 9mm 3d-1 pi 4 160/1,900 7.5/1.2 13 30+1(3) 10† -4 2 $1,200 2 [3] 8 PDW, 4.6mm 4d+1 pi- 3 200/2,000 3.9/0.5 15 20+1(3) 7† -3 2 $800 2 10 Gauss PDW, 4mm 4d(3) pi- 6+1 700/2,900 4.6/1 16 80(3) 9† -3 2 $3,600 2 [1]
Notes [1] Includes “smartgun” electronics (see box). [2] Rockets take time to accelerate. Divide damage by 3 at 1-2 yards, and by 2 at 3-10 yards. [3] Civilian semi-automatic version is RoF 3, -25% to cost, and +1 to LC.
Rifle and Shotgun Table
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -2)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
3 Handgonne, .90 2d pi++ 0 100/600 15/0.1 1 1(60) 10† -6 4 $300 3 4 Matchlock Musket, .80 4d pi++ 2 100/600 20/0.05 1 1(60) 10R† -6 3 $150 4 4 Flintlock Musket, .75 4d pi++ 2 100/1,500 13/0.05 1 1(15) 10† -6 4 $200 4
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -2)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
5 Rifle-Musket, .577 4d pi+ 4 700/2,100 8.5/0.05 1 1(15) 10† -6 3 $150 3 5 Cartridge Rifle, .45 5d pi+ 3 600/2,000 6/0.1 1 1(4) 10† -6 3 $200 3 5 Lever-Action Carbine, .30 5d pi 4 450/3,000 7/0.3 1 6+1(3i) 10† -4 2 $300 3 6 Bolt-Action Rifle, 7.62mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 8.9/0.3 1 5+1(3) 10† -5 4 $350 3 6 Self-Loading Rifle, 7.62mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 10/0.5 3 8(3) 10† -5 3 $600 3 7 Assault Rifle, 5.56mm 5d pi 5 500/3,500 9/1 12 30+1(3) 9† -4 2 $800 2 [1] 7 Assault Rifle, 7.62mmS 5d+1 pi 4 400/3,000 10.5/1.8 10 30+1(3) 10† -4 2 $300 2 [1] 7 Battle Rifle, 7.62mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 11/1.7 11 20+1(3) 11† -5 3 $900 2 [1] 8 Assault Carbine, 5.56mm 4d+2 pi 4 400/3,000 7.3/1 15 30+1(3) 9† -3 2 $900 2 [1] 8 Dart Rifle, 11mm 1d(0.2) pi- 5+1 45/145 6.6/0.02 1 1(3) 9† -5 2 $1,200 4 [2] 8 Sniper Rifle, .338 9d+1 pi 6+3 1,500/5,500 17.5/0.8 1 4+1(3) 11B† -6 4 $5,600 3 9 ICW, 6.8mm 6d pi 4+2 700/4,000 12/1.5 15 25+1(3) 10† -5 2 $7,000 1 [3, 4] 10 Gauss Rifle, 4mm 6d+2(3) pi- 7+2 1,200/4,800 8.5/1.4 12 60(3) 10† -4 2 $7,100 2 [3]
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -2)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
4 Blunderbuss, 8G 1d pi 1 15/100 12/0.13 1×9 1(15) 11† -5 1 $150 4 5 Double Shotgun, 10G 1d+2 pi 3 50/125 10/0.1 2×9 2(3i) 11† -5 1 $450 4 6 Pump Shotgun, 12G 1d+1 pi 3 50/125 8/0.7 2×9 5(3i) 10† -5 1 $240 4 7 Auto Shotgun, 12G 1d+1 pi 3 50/125 8.4/0.85 3×9 6+1(3i) 10† -5 1 $950 3
Notes [1] Civilian semi-automatic version is RoF 3, -25% to cost, and +1 to LC. [2] If damage penetrates DR, the dart injects a drug or poison as a follow-up attack. For a tranquilizer dart, roll vs. HT-3; failure results in unconsciousness for minutes equal to the margin of failure. [3] Includes “smartgun” electronics. [4] Includes an integral 25mm grenade launcher (see p. 281).
“Smartgun” Electronics (TL8)
The following systems are optional on TL8 firearms (add $500 to price) and standard on TL9+ firearms (no extra cost):
usage to authorized persons. Unauthorized users cannot fire the weapon. Military and police weapons can be set to allow everyone in a unit to share weapons.
Optional Rule: Malfunction Optionally, all firearms and grenades have a “malfunction number,” or “Malf.” The weapon will jam, misfire, or otherwise fail to function on any attack roll equal to or greater than its Malf.; see Malfunctions (p. 407).
Malfunction number is a function of tech level: it is 12 at TL3, 14 at TL4, 16 at TL5, and 17 at TL6+. A few weapons might be intrinsically more or less reliable. Weapon quality also affects Malf. Finally, lack of maintenance (especially in dusty or humid conditions) can lower Malf.
For a given gun, the weight of one full load of ammunition, in pounds, appears after the slash in its “Weight” statistic. Assume that ammo cost is $20 times this weight.
Example: The 5.56mm assault rifle has a weight of “9/1.” Thus, a full reload weighs 1 lb. and costs $20.
The statistics given on the tables assume that guns are firing ordinary, solid projectiles (usually lead). At TL6+, this means the common “ball” or “full metal jacket” round, but other ammo types are possible. A few examples for pistols, submachine guns, rifles, and machine guns (but not shotguns, Gauss guns, and dart rifles):
Hollow-Point (HP): Bullets designed to expand in flesh, causing bigger wounds. This improves damage type: pi- becomes pi, pi becomes pi+, and pi+ becomes pi++. (HP ammo is not available for guns that already inflict pi++ damage.) However, HP ammo has trouble penetrating barriers or armor; add an armor divisor of (0.5). HP ammo is available at TL6+. It has normal cost and LC. It is the most common ammo type used by hunters and police.
Armor-Piercing Hard Core (APHC): Solid bullets with a dense, armor-piercing core. Add a (2) armor divisor, but if the gun caliber is below 20mm (.80), damage type degrades: pi++ drops to pi+, pi+ to pi, and pi to pi-. (There is no effect on pi-.) APHC ammo is available at TL7+. It has double normal cost and is LC2.
Armor-Piercing Discarding-Sabot (APDS): A small tungsten dart encased in a larger plastic sheath that peels away when the round leaves the barrel, increasing velocity. APDS works like APHC, but also adds 50% to range and +1 damage per die. Used by tanks at TL6-7 and machine guns at TL8, it is available for small arms by TL9. It has five times normal cost and is LC1.
Fine firearms cost double list price, and get +1 to Acc and +1 to Malf. Very fine firearms cost 5 times list price, and get +2 to Acc and +1 to Malf.
Should this result in a Malf. of 19 or more, the weapon will not malfunction unless lack of maintenance lowers Malf.
Presentation firearms (decorated, gilded, etc.) are also available. This will further increase cost (and resale value) by 2 to 20 times.
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 9 Electrolaser Pistol 1d-3 burn 4 40/80 2.2/0.5 3 180(3) 4 -2 1 $1,800 4 [1, 2, 3] linked HT-4(2) aff 10 Laser Pistol 3d(2) burn 6 250/750 3.3/0.5 10 400(3) 6 -2 1 $2,800 3 [3] 11 Blaster Pistol 3d(5) burn 5 300/900 1.6/0.5 3 200(3) 4 -2 1 $2,200 3 [4, 5]
TL Weapon Damage Acc Range Weight RoF Shots ST Bulk Rcl Cost LC Notes 9 Electrolaser Carbine 1d-3 burn 8+1 160/470 3.7/1 3 360(3) 4† -4 1 $3,900 3 [1, 2, 3] linked HT-4(2) aff 9 Laser Sniper Rifle 5d(2) burn 12+2 1,100/3,300 20/4p 3 75(3) 10† -8 1 $20,000 1 [3] 10 Laser Rifle 5d(2) burn 12+2 700/2,100 10/2 10 150(3) 7† -4 1 $10,000 2 [3] 11 Blaster Rifle 6d(5) burn 10+2 700/2,100 10/1 3 50(3) 7† -4 1 $18,000 2 [4, 5] 11 Heavy Blaster 8d(5) burn 10+4 900/2,700 20/4p 3 90(5) 10† -6 1 $23,000 1 [4]
Notes
The next table gives a few examples of the heaviest weapons that adventurers are likely to carry or encounter. Police and ordinary criminals rarely use such weapons – but any infantry squad or well-funded terrorist group might have access to them!
Heavy Weapon Table
(IQ-5)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
7 ATGM, 115mm 6dx10(10) cr ex 3 200/2,000 37/26 1 1(20) 11B† -10 1 $20,000 1 [1, 2, 3] 8 SAM, 70mm 6dx3 cr ex [6d] 7 1,000/8,800 18/22 1 1(20) 10† -8 1 $38,000 1 [1, 2, 4]
(DX-4, or other Gunner at -4)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
2 Scorpion 5d imp 3 415/520 110/0.9 1 1(30) 45M† -10 – $5,000 2
(DX-4, or other Gunner at -4)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
6 HMG, .50 13d+1 pi+ 6 1,800/7,400 116/32 8! 100(5) 20M† -8 2 $14,000 1 [5]
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -4)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
7 Under-Barrel, 40mm 4d(10) cr ex[2d] 2 150/440 +3.5/0.5 1 1(3) 11 – 2 $500 1 [1, 6, 7] 9 Integral, 25mm 7d cr ex[3d] 4+2 2,200 –/1.6 1 3(3) 10 – 3 – – [8]
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -4)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
7 Bazooka, 60mm 6dx2(10) cr ex 3 100/650 16.7/3.4 1 1(4) 10† -6 1 $1,000 1 [2, 7] 7 RPG, 85mm 6dx3(10) cr ex 3+1 300/1,000 21/5.7 1 1(5) 10† -6 1 $800 1 [2, 7] 8 LAW, 84mm 6dx6(10) cr ex 3 330/2,300 14.7 1 1(–) 10† -5 1 $750 1 [2, 7]
(DX-4, or most other Guns at -2)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
6 Auto Rifle, 7.62mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 22/1.6 9! 20(3) 12B† -6 3 $6,500 2 6 LMG, 7.62mm 7d pi 5 1,000/4,200 30/6 15! 100(5) 13B† -6 2 $6,600 1 7 SAW, 5.56mm 5d+1 pi 5 800/3,500 24/7 12! 200(5) 12B† -6 2 $4,800 1
(DX-4, or other Liquid Projector at -4)
| TL | Weapon | Damage | Acc | Range | Weight | RoF | Shots | ST | Bulk | Rcl | Cost | LC | Notes |
|---|
6 Flamethrower 3d burn – 50 70 Jet 10 10† -8 – $1,800 1
Notes: