Difference between revisions of "Gauss rifle"

m (Revanche moved page Gauss Rifle to Gauss rifle over redirect)
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{{InfoBoxWeapon
 
{{InfoBoxWeapon
 
| image = [[File:Gauss Rifle.jpg|191px]]
 
| image = [[File:Gauss Rifle.jpg|191px]]
−
| name = Gauss Rifle
+
| name = Gauss rifle
−
| Type = Ballistic (Direct-Fire)
+
| Type = ballistic (direct-fire)
 
| Tech Base = [[Clan]] / [[Inner Sphere]] (IS)
 
| Tech Base = [[Clan]] / [[Inner Sphere]] (IS)
 
| Year Availability =  
 
| Year Availability =  
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IS = 7<ref name="TRO:2750p7"/>
 
IS = 7<ref name="TRO:2750p7"/>
 
Proto = 8
 
Proto = 8
−
| Ammo Per Ton = 8
+
| Ammo per ton = 8
 
| Cost (unloaded) = 300,000<ref name="TM289"/>
 
| Cost (unloaded) = 300,000<ref name="TM289"/>
−
| Ammo Cost (per ton) = 20,000
+
| Ammo cost (per ton) = 20,000
 
| BV (1.0) = 321
 
| BV (1.0) = 321
 
| BV (2.0) = 320<ref name="TMp317">''TechManual'', p. 317, "Inner Sphere Weapons and Equipment BV Table"</ref><br> 40 (Ammo)<ref name="TMp317"/>
 
| BV (2.0) = 320<ref name="TMp317">''TechManual'', p. 317, "Inner Sphere Weapons and Equipment BV Table"</ref><br> 40 (Ammo)<ref name="TMp317"/>
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
Introduced in [[2590]] by the [[Terran Hegemony]], the '''Gauss Rifle''' utilizes a series of electromagnets to propel slugs of ferrous nickel-iron alloy at extremely high velocities, making it a devastating and lethal long-range weapon.<ref name="TMp219">''TechManual'', p. 219, "Standard Gauss Rifle"</ref>  So powerful is it that one hit from a Gauss Rifle is capable of killing nearly any [[Light 'Mech]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3055'', p. 26</ref> Unlike most traditional ballistic weapons, the Gauss Rifle does not use combustible propellant, so its firing generates very little heat. However, the sheer mass and bulk of the weapon limits its applications.<ref name="TMp219"/>  The Gauss Rifle also has fairly heavy power requirements which, if used at the same time as similarly energy-intensive systems, forces the unit's computer to cycle and allocate power to meet the demands.  If for example a [[MechWarrior (pilot)|pilot]] tried to fire both a Gauss Rifle and several [[lasers]] at once, there would be a delay in the time it would take to get the entire salvo off.<ref name=BL19>''Blood Legacy'', Ch. 19</ref>
+
Introduced in [[2590]] by the [[Terran Hegemony]], the '''Gauss rifle''' utilizes a series of electromagnets to propel slugs of ferrous nickel-iron alloy at extremely high velocities, making it a devastating and lethal long-range weapon.<ref name="TMp219">''TechManual'', p. 219, "Standard Gauss Rifle"</ref>  So powerful is it that one hit from a Gauss rifle is capable of killing nearly any [[Light 'Mech]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3055'', p. 26</ref> Unlike most traditional ballistic weapons, the Gauss rifle does not use combustible propellant, so its firing generates very little heat. However, the sheer mass and bulk of the weapon limits its applications.<ref name="TMp219"/>  The Gauss rifle also has fairly heavy power requirements which, if used at the same time as similarly energy-intensive systems, forces the unit's computer to cycle and allocate power to meet the demands.  If for example a [[MechWarrior (pilot)|pilot]] tried to fire both a Gauss rifle and several [[lasers]] at once, there would be a delay in the time it would take to get the entire salvo off.<ref name=BL19>''Blood Legacy'', Ch. 19</ref>
  
−
Since the Gauss Rifle fires solid metal slugs, with neither propellant nor explosive, Gauss Rifle magazines are not susceptible to ammunition explosions. However, if the weapon itself is struck by enemy fire, the capacitors that power the electromagnets will release their stored energy, with an effect similar to an ammo explosion. (In game terms, a critical hit on a Gauss Rifle is equivalent to a 20-point ammo explosion.) Some 'Mechs employ [[CASE]] in the section containing the Gauss Rifle to protect internal components in the event the weapon explodes.<ref name="TMp219"/><ref name="BT:MRp128">''BattleTech Master Rules'', p 219, "Gauss Rifle"</ref>
+
Since the Gauss rifle fires solid metal slugs, with neither propellant nor explosive, Gauss rifle magazines are not susceptible to ammunition explosions. However, if the weapon itself is struck by enemy fire, the capacitors that power the electromagnets will release their stored energy, with an effect similar to an ammo explosion. (In game terms, a critical hit on a Gauss rifle is equivalent to a 20-point ammo explosion.) Some 'Mechs employ [[CASE]] in the section containing the Gauss rifle to protect internal components in the event the weapon explodes.<ref name="TMp219"/><ref name="BT:MRp128">''BattleTech Master Rules'', p. 219, "Gauss Rifle"</ref>
  
−
Though Gauss Rifles fire standardized rounds, described as being melon-shaped and 30cm in diameter,<ref name=BL19/> they are technically capable of utilizing any object which can be propelled by magnets as "ammunition."  In an emergency a 'Mech could even muzzle-load their weapon with something like a steel girder if their ammunition feed was disabled.  Using the Gauss Rifle in this way however has a high chance of causing damage to the weapon.<ref>''Blood Legacy'', Ch 24</ref>  
+
Though Gauss rifles fire standardized rounds, described as being melon-shaped and 30cm in diameter,<ref name=BL19/> they are technically capable of utilizing any object which can be propelled by magnets as "ammunition."  In an emergency a 'Mech could even muzzle-load their weapon with something like a steel girder if their ammunition feed was disabled.  Using the Gauss rifle in this way however has a high chance of causing damage to the weapon.<ref>''Blood Legacy'', Ch 24</ref>  
  
−
The Gauss Rifle was found on a number of heavier [[Star League Defense Force]] 'Mechs, but fell out of use in the [[Inner Sphere]] during the technological decline of the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]]. It was revived following the discovery of the [[Helm Memory Core]]. The [[Clans]] never lost the technology, and continued to refine the Star League-era weapon. Although the Clan Gauss Rifle is similar in performance and operation to its Inner Sphere counterpart, it is 20% lighter and somewhat more compact.  
+
The Gauss rifle was found on a number of heavier [[Star League Defense Force]] 'Mechs, but fell out of use in the [[Inner Sphere]] during the technological decline of the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]]. It was revived following the discovery of the [[Helm Memory Core]]. The [[Clans]] never lost the technology, and continued to refine the Star League-era weapon. Although the Clan Gauss rifle is similar in performance and operation to its Inner Sphere counterpart, it is 20% lighter and somewhat more compact.  
  
−
''Note: The original description of the Gauss Rifle that appeared in the first printing of ''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]'' listed the ammunition load as 10 shots per ton. This figure was later amended to eight shots per ton.''<ref name="TRO:2750p7">''Technical Readout: 2750'', p. 7, "Gauss Rifle"</ref>
+
''Note: The original description of the Gauss rifle that appeared in the first printing of ''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]'' listed the ammunition load as 10 shots per ton. This figure was later amended to eight shots per ton.''<ref name="TRO:2750p7">''Technical Readout: 2750'', p. 7, "Gauss Rifle"</ref>
  
 
== Models ==
 
== Models ==
−
The Gauss Rifle is manufactured on the following planets:
+
The Gauss rifle is manufactured on the following planets:
  
 
===Dragon's Fire===
 
===Dragon's Fire===
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===Grizzard 210===
 
===Grizzard 210===
−
A highly modified version of the standard Grizzard Gauss Rifle, the 210 trades width for length. Though featuring a much longer barrel, the resulting weapon is slender enough to fit within the tight confines of the ''Huron Warrior'''s right arm.<ref name=TRO3055-42>''Technical Readout: 3055'', p. 42, "HUR-WO-R4L ''Huron Warrior''"</ref>
+
A highly modified version of the standard Grizzard Gauss rifle, the 210 trades width for length. Though featuring a much longer barrel, the resulting weapon is slender enough to fit within the tight confines of the ''Huron Warrior'''s right arm.<ref name=TRO3055-42>''Technical Readout: 3055'', p. 42, "HUR-WO-R4L ''Huron Warrior''"</ref>
 
{|class="wikitable" style="background: #gray; text-align:center; border: 2px solid black;"
 
{|class="wikitable" style="background: #gray; text-align:center; border: 2px solid black;"
 
|'''Manufactured on'''   
 
|'''Manufactured on'''   
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===Poland Main Model A===
 
===Poland Main Model A===
−
Developed under the Poland brand by Johnston Industries, the Main Model A is one of the most common and popular post–Helm Memory Core Gauss Rifles available in [[Federated Suns]] space. Matching the spec of Star League era Gauss Rifles used by the SLDF, the Main Model A has an excellent track record and a well deserved reputation as both an accurate and reliable weapon.<ref name=SSaD-55>''Starterbook: Sword and Dragon'', p.55 "Rules Annex - Prototype Weapons and Equipment - Gauss Rifle"</ref> <ref name=TM-92>''Tech Manual'', pp. 92-93 "The Mechanized Battlefield - Battlefield Roles - Main Battle Tanks"</ref> <ref name=TM-219>''Tech Manual'', p. 219 "Weapons and Heavy Equipment - Gauss Rifles"</ref>
+
Developed under the Poland brand by Johnston Industries, the Main Model A is one of the most common and popular post–Helm Memory Core Gauss rifles available in [[Federated Suns]] space. Matching the spec of Star League era Gauss rifles used by the SLDF, the Main Model A has an excellent track record and a well deserved reputation as both an accurate and reliable weapon.<ref name=SSaD-55>''Starterbook: Sword and Dragon'', p. 55, "Rules Annex - Prototype Weapons and Equipment - Gauss Rifle"</ref> <ref name=TM-92>''Tech Manual'', pp. 92-93 "The Mechanized Battlefield - Battlefield Roles - Main Battle Tanks"</ref> <ref name=TM-219>''Tech Manual'', p. 219, "Weapons and Heavy Equipment - Gauss Rifles"</ref>
 
 
 
 
 
Following the legal fallout surrounding the BattleMech scale [[Magshot]], as part of the settlement between Johnston and [[Federated Industries]], Federated received the perpetual rights to produce the Poland Main A, which is manufactured and marketed by its heavy weapon [[Hurricane Defense Systems]] division primary to the [[Lyran Commonwealth]] market.<ref name=HHD-171>''Handbook: House Davion'', p. 171 "Economics - Just Business"</ref>
 
Following the legal fallout surrounding the BattleMech scale [[Magshot]], as part of the settlement between Johnston and [[Federated Industries]], Federated received the perpetual rights to produce the Poland Main A, which is manufactured and marketed by its heavy weapon [[Hurricane Defense Systems]] division primary to the [[Lyran Commonwealth]] market.<ref name=HHD-171>''Handbook: House Davion'', p. 171 "Economics - Just Business"</ref>
Line 362: Line 362:
  
 
===Zeus Slingshot===
 
===Zeus Slingshot===
−
Manufactured in the Free Worlds League, the Zeus Slingshot matches the spec of Star League era Gauss Rifles used by the SLDF.<ref name=SSaD-55/> <ref name=TM-219/>
+
Manufactured in the Free Worlds League, the Zeus Slingshot matches the spec of Star League-era Gauss rifles used by the SLDF.<ref name=SSaD-55/> <ref name=TM-219/>
 
{|class="wikitable" style="background: #gray; text-align:center; border: 2px solid black;"
 
{|class="wikitable" style="background: #gray; text-align:center; border: 2px solid black;"
 
|'''Manufactured on'''   
 
|'''Manufactured on'''   
Line 404: Line 404:
  
 
==Variants==
 
==Variants==
−
*Prototype Gauss Rifle (GR-P): prior to the introduction of the standard Gauss Rifle the [[Star League Defense Force]] fielded prototypes of the weapon design during the [[Reunification War]]. These prototypes were functionally identical to the standard Gauss Rifle, with two exceptions: the prototypes took up one additional critical slot, and jammed in a fashion identical to that of the [[Ultra Autocannon]] on a to-hit roll of 2.<ref name="H:RWp179">''Historical: Reunification War'', p. 179-180, "Gauss Rifle (GR-P)"</ref>
+
* Prototype Gauss rifle (GR-P): prior to the introduction of the standard Gauss rifle the [[Star League Defense Force]] fielded prototypes of the weapon design during the [[Reunification War]]. These prototypes were functionally identical to the standard Gauss rifle, with two exceptions: the prototypes took up one additional critical slot, and jammed in a fashion identical to that of the [[Ultra Autocannon]] on a to-hit roll of 2.<ref name="H:RWp179">''Historical: Reunification War'', pp. 179-180, "Gauss Rifle (GR-P)"</ref>
−
*Gauss-X: The [[Federated Commonwealth]] field-tested experimental versions of the Gauss rifle during the closing months of the [[War of 3039]].  Employed by elite units of the [[AFFS]] and [[LCAF]], these prototypes required an additional critical slot and could jam in certain cases.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', p. 145</ref>  The [[Draconis Combine]]'s [[9th Ghost]] regiment was also able to jury-rig two of their ''[[Hunchback]]'' [['Mechs]] with prototype Gauss rifles during combat on [[Elidere IV]].  While providing the design with superior long-range firepower, the recoil was too much for the machines and they were removed after the end of the war.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 136</ref>
+
 
−
*[[Silver Bullet Gauss Rifle|Silver Bullet]]: An early attempt to introduce cluster functionality to the Gauss Rifle family, the Silver Bullet Gauss Rifle had some major drawbacks that were difficult to overcome, and did not see widespread use.
+
* Gauss-X: The [[Federated Commonwealth]] field-tested experimental versions of the Gauss rifle during the closing months of the [[War of 3039]].  Employed by elite units of the [[AFFS]] and [[LCAF]], these prototypes required an additional critical slot and could jam in certain cases.<ref>''Historical: War of 3039'', p. 145</ref>  The [[Draconis Combine]]'s [[9th Ghost]] regiment was also able to jury-rig two of their ''[[Hunchback]]'' [['Mechs]] with prototype Gauss rifles during combat on [[Elidere IV]].  While providing the design with superior long-range firepower, the recoil was too much for the machines and they were removed after the end of the war.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 136</ref>
−
*[[Light Gauss Rifle]]: The Light Gauss Rifle was invented to be smaller and lighter, that way it could be carried on lighter mechs. It had the obvious consequence of doing less damage, but carried twice as much ammunition and had a slightly longer range to make up for it.
+
 
−
*[[Heavy Gauss Rifle]]: The polar opposite of the Light Gauss Rifle, the Heavy Gauss Rifle trades range and a large ammunition capacity for raw damage output, but it has the downsides of mass, enormous bulk, and so on. An improved version needed to be developed later on.
+
* [[Silver Bullet Gauss Rifle|Silver Bullet]]: An early attempt to introduce cluster functionality to the Gauss rifle family, the Silver Bullet Gauss rifle had some major drawbacks that were difficult to overcome, and did not see widespread use.
−
*Hyper-Assault Gauss Rifles: Coming in sizes [[HAG 20|20]], [[HAG 30|30]] and [[HAG 40|40]], these are Cluster-firing weapons which are able to do an incredible amount of damage for their size.  
+
 
−
*[[MagShot]] and [[Anti-Personnel Gauss Rifle]]: These small, lightweight defensive weapons are usually mounted on BattleMechs for long-range anti-infantry work, but are also useful against mechs (though not by much).
+
* [[Light Gauss Rifle]]: The light Gauss rifle was invented to be smaller and lighter, that way it could be carried on lighter 'Mechs. It had the obvious consequence of doing less damage, but carried twice as much ammunition and had a slightly longer range to make up for it.
−
*[[Naval Gauss Rifle]]: The Naval Gauss Rifle is a considerably upsized version of the Gauss Rifle for use on [[WarShips]], but what makes the design especially notable is that it has what is essentially a built-in version of [[CASE]], making it suitable for protecting the vessel and crew from a Gauss Rifle explosion. Interestingly, there is no Sub-Capital version of the weapon, which would be ideal for dropships.
+
 
−
*[[Mass Driver]]: Just when mankind thought Gauss weapons wouldn't get any bigger, they did just that, and it can be rather terrifying what these will do to a planet.
+
* [[Heavy Gauss Rifle]]: The polar opposite of the light Gauss rifle, the heavy Gauss rifle trades range and a large ammunition capacity for raw damage output, but it has the downsides of mass, enormous bulk, and so on. An improved version needed to be developed later on.
 +
 
 +
* Hyper-Assault Gauss rifles: Coming in sizes [[HAG 20|20]], [[HAG 30|30]] and [[HAG 40|40]], these are cluster-firing weapons which are able to do an incredible amount of damage for their size.  
 +
 
 +
* [[MagShot]] and [[Anti-Personnel Gauss Rifle]]: These small, lightweight defensive weapons are usually mounted on BattleMechs for long-range anti-infantry work, but are also useful against 'Mechs (though not by much).
 +
 
 +
* [[Naval Gauss Rifle]]: The naval Gauss rifle is a considerably upsized version of the Gauss rifle for use on [[WarShips]], but what makes the design especially notable is that it has what is essentially a built-in version of [[CASE]], making it suitable for protecting the vessel and crew from a Gauss rifle explosion. Interestingly, there is no sub-capital version of the weapon, which would be ideal for [[DropShip]]s.
 +
 
 +
* [[Mass Driver]]: Just when mankind thought Gauss weapons wouldn't get any bigger, they did just that, and it can be rather terrifying what these will do to a planet.
  
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
Line 418: Line 426:
  
 
== Bibliography ==
 
== Bibliography ==
−
* ''[[BattleTech (Video Game)|BattleTech]] (Video Game)
+
<div class="desktop-3-col">
 +
* ''[[BattleTech (Video Game)|BattleTech]]'' (Video Game)
 
* ''[[BattleTech Master Rules]]''
 
* ''[[BattleTech Master Rules]]''
 
* ''[[Blood Legacy]]''
 
* ''[[Blood Legacy]]''
 
* ''[[Historical: Reunification War]]''
 
* ''[[Historical: Reunification War]]''
 
* ''[[Historical: War of 3039]]''
 
* ''[[Historical: War of 3039]]''
−
* ''[[The Lance Killer]] BattleCorps Story''
+
* ''[[The Lance Killer]]''
−
* ''[[Second Succession War (Sourcebook)]]''
+
* ''[[Second Succession War (Sourcebook)|Second Succession War]]''
 
* ''[[TechManual]]''
 
* ''[[TechManual]]''
 
* ''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]''
 
* ''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]''
Line 432: Line 441:
 
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3060]]''
 
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3060]]''
 
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3145 Free Worlds League]]''
 
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3145 Free Worlds League]]''
 +
</div>
  
  

Revision as of 21:58, 28 June 2022

Gauss Rifle.jpg
Gauss rifle
Production information
Type ballistic (direct-fire)
Tech Base Clan / Inner Sphere (IS)
Year Availability Clan = 2828

IS = 3040

Year Introduced Clan = 2828 CBR

IS = 2587 TH[1]

Year Extinction IS = 2865[2] [3]
Year Reintroduced IS = 3040 FWL[2]
Technology Rating E[2]
Availability Ratings D[2]/E[2]/D[2]
Legality Rating A - F
Technical specifications
Heat 1[4]
Damage 15[4]
Minimum Range 2[4]
Short Range 1-7[4]
Medium Range 8-15[4]
Long Range 16-22[4]
Tons Clan = 12

IS = 15[4]

Critical Slots Clan = 6

IS = 7[4] Proto = 8

Cost (unloaded) 300,000[2]
BV (1.0) 321
BV (2.0) 320[5]
40 (Ammo)[5]

Description

Introduced in 2590 by the Terran Hegemony, the Gauss rifle utilizes a series of electromagnets to propel slugs of ferrous nickel-iron alloy at extremely high velocities, making it a devastating and lethal long-range weapon.[6] So powerful is it that one hit from a Gauss rifle is capable of killing nearly any Light 'Mech.[7] Unlike most traditional ballistic weapons, the Gauss rifle does not use combustible propellant, so its firing generates very little heat. However, the sheer mass and bulk of the weapon limits its applications.[6] The Gauss rifle also has fairly heavy power requirements which, if used at the same time as similarly energy-intensive systems, forces the unit's computer to cycle and allocate power to meet the demands. If for example a pilot tried to fire both a Gauss rifle and several lasers at once, there would be a delay in the time it would take to get the entire salvo off.[8]

Since the Gauss rifle fires solid metal slugs, with neither propellant nor explosive, Gauss rifle magazines are not susceptible to ammunition explosions. However, if the weapon itself is struck by enemy fire, the capacitors that power the electromagnets will release their stored energy, with an effect similar to an ammo explosion. (In game terms, a critical hit on a Gauss rifle is equivalent to a 20-point ammo explosion.) Some 'Mechs employ CASE in the section containing the Gauss rifle to protect internal components in the event the weapon explodes.[6][9]

Though Gauss rifles fire standardized rounds, described as being melon-shaped and 30cm in diameter,[8] they are technically capable of utilizing any object which can be propelled by magnets as "ammunition." In an emergency a 'Mech could even muzzle-load their weapon with something like a steel girder if their ammunition feed was disabled. Using the Gauss rifle in this way however has a high chance of causing damage to the weapon.[10]

The Gauss rifle was found on a number of heavier Star League Defense Force 'Mechs, but fell out of use in the Inner Sphere during the technological decline of the Succession Wars. It was revived following the discovery of the Helm Memory Core. The Clans never lost the technology, and continued to refine the Star League-era weapon. Although the Clan Gauss rifle is similar in performance and operation to its Inner Sphere counterpart, it is 20% lighter and somewhat more compact.

Note: The original description of the Gauss rifle that appeared in the first printing of Technical Readout: 2750 listed the ammunition load as 10 shots per ton. This figure was later amended to eight shots per ton.[4]

Models

The Gauss rifle is manufactured on the following planets:

Dragon's Fire

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Atreus Imperator Automatic Weaponry Victor Atlas Slayer [11]

Grizzard

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Outreach Blackwell Corporation War Dog [12]

Grizzard 200

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
New Earth Yankee Weapons Systems Cerberus Sasquatch Excalibur [13] [14] [15]
Quentin Independence Weaponry Excalibur [16]

Grizzard 210

A highly modified version of the standard Grizzard Gauss rifle, the 210 trades width for length. Though featuring a much longer barrel, the resulting weapon is slender enough to fit within the tight confines of the Huron Warrior's right arm.[17]

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Corey Hollis Incorporated Huron Warrior [18]
New Earth Yankee Weapons Systems Huron Warrior [18]

Inokuma

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Betelgeuse Aldis Industries Regulator II [19]

Imperator Dragon's Fire

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Atreus Imperator Automatic Weaponry Victor Atlas Slayer [20]

M-7

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Terra Leopard Armor Demon [21]
Son Hoa StarCorps Industries Highlander King Crab [22] [23]
Northwind Cosara King Crab [23]
Terra Aldis Industries Regulator II [24]
Terra Skobel MechWorks Osprey [25]
Corey Hollis Industries Osprey [25]
Terra Pandora 'Mech Works Marksman [26]

MilDouglas

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Warlock Ceres Metals Industries Helios [27]

Mydron Concussor

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Hellespont 'Mech Works Tian-Zong [28]

Norse-Storm M-7D

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
New Earth Norse-Storm Technologies Incorporated Alacorn [29]
Kathil General Motors Nightstar [30]
Solaris VII Norse-Storm Technologies Incorporated Nightstar [30]
Loxley Norse-Storm Technologies Incorporated Thunder Hawk [31]

Poland Main Model A

Developed under the Poland brand by Johnston Industries, the Main Model A is one of the most common and popular post–Helm Memory Core Gauss rifles available in Federated Suns space. Matching the spec of Star League era Gauss rifles used by the SLDF, the Main Model A has an excellent track record and a well deserved reputation as both an accurate and reliable weapon.[32] [33] [34]

Following the legal fallout surrounding the BattleMech scale Magshot, as part of the settlement between Johnston and Federated Industries, Federated received the perpetual rights to produce the Poland Main A, which is manufactured and marketed by its heavy weapon Hurricane Defense Systems division primary to the Lyran Commonwealth market.[35]

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Coventry Norse-Storm Technologies Incorporated Devastator [36]
Loxley Coventry Metal Works Hollander [37]
Tharkad TharHes Industries Falconer [38]
New Valencia General Motors Falconer [38]
Hesperus II Defiance Industries Gunslinger,
Gürteltier 		[39] [40]
Quentin Independence Weaponry Gunslinger,
Marauder II 		[39]
New Syrtis Johnston Industries Caesar [41]
Kathil Salem General Motors Challenger [42]
Kirklin Kallon Industries Challenger [42]
Kathil General Motors Cestus [43]
Solaris VII Blue Shot Weapons Cestus [43]
Sian Hellespont Industrials Pillager [44]
St. Ives HildCo Interplanetary Pillager [44]

Poland Main Model C

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Bristol Jolassa-Kumbold Armored Weapons Fury [45]
Ruchbah Michaelson Heavy Industries Yellow Jacket [46]

Poland Main Model R

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
New Syrtis Johnston Industries Caesar Banshee Marauder Victor [47]

Thunderstroke Series 2b

Built to Clan spec.

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Tokasha Tokasha MechWorks Behemoth 2 [48]

Zeus Slingshot

Manufactured in the Free Worlds League, the Zeus Slingshot matches the spec of Star League-era Gauss rifles used by the SLDF.[32] [34]

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Irian Irian BattleMechs Unlimited Tempest [49]
Stewart Corean Enterprises Cyclops Goliath [50]
Caph Stormvanger Assemblies Unlimited Cyclops [51]
Storfors J.B. BattleMechs Incorporated Dragon Fire [52]

Zhi-tong-yao

Manufactured on Manufactured by Typically used in References
Victoria Shengli Arms Jinggau [53]

Variants

  • Prototype Gauss rifle (GR-P): prior to the introduction of the standard Gauss rifle the Star League Defense Force fielded prototypes of the weapon design during the Reunification War. These prototypes were functionally identical to the standard Gauss rifle, with two exceptions: the prototypes took up one additional critical slot, and jammed in a fashion identical to that of the Ultra Autocannon on a to-hit roll of 2.[54]
  • Gauss-X: The Federated Commonwealth field-tested experimental versions of the Gauss rifle during the closing months of the War of 3039. Employed by elite units of the AFFS and LCAF, these prototypes required an additional critical slot and could jam in certain cases.[55] The Draconis Combine's 9th Ghost regiment was also able to jury-rig two of their Hunchback 'Mechs with prototype Gauss rifles during combat on Elidere IV. While providing the design with superior long-range firepower, the recoil was too much for the machines and they were removed after the end of the war.[56]
  • Silver Bullet: An early attempt to introduce cluster functionality to the Gauss rifle family, the Silver Bullet Gauss rifle had some major drawbacks that were difficult to overcome, and did not see widespread use.
  • Light Gauss Rifle: The light Gauss rifle was invented to be smaller and lighter, that way it could be carried on lighter 'Mechs. It had the obvious consequence of doing less damage, but carried twice as much ammunition and had a slightly longer range to make up for it.
  • Heavy Gauss Rifle: The polar opposite of the light Gauss rifle, the heavy Gauss rifle trades range and a large ammunition capacity for raw damage output, but it has the downsides of mass, enormous bulk, and so on. An improved version needed to be developed later on.
  • Hyper-Assault Gauss rifles: Coming in sizes 20, 30 and 40, these are cluster-firing weapons which are able to do an incredible amount of damage for their size.
  • MagShot and Anti-Personnel Gauss Rifle: These small, lightweight defensive weapons are usually mounted on BattleMechs for long-range anti-infantry work, but are also useful against 'Mechs (though not by much).
  • Naval Gauss Rifle: The naval Gauss rifle is a considerably upsized version of the Gauss rifle for use on WarShips, but what makes the design especially notable is that it has what is essentially a built-in version of CASE, making it suitable for protecting the vessel and crew from a Gauss rifle explosion. Interestingly, there is no sub-capital version of the weapon, which would be ideal for DropShips.
  • Mass Driver: Just when mankind thought Gauss weapons wouldn't get any bigger, they did just that, and it can be rather terrifying what these will do to a planet.

References

  1. ↑ Interstellar Operations, p. 72, "Gauss Rifle-P"
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 TechManual p. 289, "Heavy Weapons And Equipment - Table"
  3. ↑ Second Succession War, p. 102, "Rules Annex - Weapons and Equipment Extinction Table"
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 Technical Readout: 2750, p. 7, "Gauss Rifle"
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 TechManual, p. 317, "Inner Sphere Weapons and Equipment BV Table"
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 TechManual, p. 219, "Standard Gauss Rifle"
  7. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055, p. 26
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Blood Legacy, Ch. 19
  9. ↑ BattleTech Master Rules, p. 219, "Gauss Rifle"
  10. ↑ Blood Legacy, Ch 24
  11. ↑ Objective Raids, p. 120,
  12. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 68, "WR-DG-02FC War Dog"
  13. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 76, "MR-V2 Cerberus"
  14. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 168, "SQS-TH-002 Sasquatch"
  15. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 216, Excalibur"
  16. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 216
  17. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055, p. 42, "HUR-WO-R4L Huron Warrior"
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 38, "HUR-WO-R4L Huron Warrior"
  19. ↑ Technical Readout: 3085, p. 30, "Regulator II Hover Tank"
  20. ↑ Objective Raids, p. 120,
  21. ↑ Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 170
  22. ↑ Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 220
  23. ↑ 23.0 23.1 Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 222
  24. ↑ Technical Readout: 3085, p. 30
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 Technical Readout: 3085, p. 82
  26. ↑ Technical Readout: 3085 Supplemental, p. 17
  27. ↑ Technical Readout: 3060 Revised, p. 104
  28. ↑ Technical Readout: 3145 Capellan Confederation, p. 44
  29. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 202
  30. ↑ 30.0 30.1 Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 226
  31. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 230
  32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 Starterbook: Sword and Dragon, p. 55, "Rules Annex - Prototype Weapons and Equipment - Gauss Rifle"
  33. ↑ Tech Manual, pp. 92-93 "The Mechanized Battlefield - Battlefield Roles - Main Battle Tanks"
  34. ↑ 34.0 34.1 Tech Manual, p. 219, "Weapons and Heavy Equipment - Gauss Rifles"
  35. ↑ Handbook: House Davion, p. 171 "Economics - Just Business"
  36. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 158
  37. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055 Revised, p. 26
  38. ↑ 38.0 38.1 Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 62
  39. ↑ 39.0 39.1 Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 72
  40. ↑ Technical Readout: 3085, p. 50
  41. ↑ Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 76
  42. ↑ 42.0 42.1 Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 234
  43. ↑ 43.0 43.1 Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 214
  44. ↑ 44.0 44.1 Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 228
  45. ↑ Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 178
  46. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 74
  47. ↑ Objective Raids, p. 90,
  48. ↑ Technical Readout: 3085, p. 120, "Behemoth 2"
  49. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 50, "TMP-3M Tempest"
  50. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade, p. 100
  51. ↑ Technical Readout: 3055 Revised, p. 173
  52. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058 Upgrade, p. 146
  53. ↑ Technical Readout: 3060 Revised, p. 112
  54. ↑ Historical: Reunification War, pp. 179-180, "Gauss Rifle (GR-P)"
  55. ↑ Historical: War of 3039, p. 145
  56. ↑ Technical Readout: 3039, p. 136

Bibliography

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