Mark I Combat Shotgun
| Mark I Combat Shotgun | |
|---|---|
| Specifications | |
| Weight: | 9 lbs |
| Dimensions: | 32 in |
| Barrel Length: | 22in |
| Cartridge: | 4 gauge |
| Rate of Fire: | 300 rpm |
| Muzzle Velocity: | Variable (Setting Dependent) |
| Effective Range: | Variable (Setting Dependent) |
The Mark I Combat Shotgun (MICS) is a wide-barreled coilgun designed to fire flechettes, in order to clear rooms and narrow spaces.
Design
The MICS was designed as a rapid-fire, drum-fed bullpup style shotgun. It is comprised primarily of synthetic polymers, in order to reduce the weight in comparison to similar weapons, as well as reduce the likelihood of it being picked up in a metal detector. The sole metal components of the weapon itself are located in the electromagnetic coils that are used to propel the flechette's sabots.
Munitions
Flechettes designed for the Mark I Combat Shotgun are typically made of razor-sharp metal spikes or blades, or of similarly constructed glass fitted to a metal sabot or base. These are typically in large clusters of up to a hundred per shot. Because of the larger size of the cluster as opposed to slugs for regular rifles, the MICS is largely incapable of using standard munitions, requiring specially manufactured slugs for use as a battle rifle.
History
The Mark I Combat Shotgun was designed shortly after the War of Secession, in order to provide the Space Forces Command equipment for boarding and counter-boarding operations, largely in part due to the inability of the flechettes to penetrate the hull of a warship (minimizing the chances of a blowout).
The weapon itself drew a great deal of inspiration from the Pancor Jackhammer, a pre-21st century revolver-style bullpup shotgun. Alterations to the base design included exchanging the cylinder in exchange for a large drum, altering the barrel for the electromagnetic coils, and adapting the design for a power source.
