Lasers

Lasers are, at their core, relatively simple weapons. They generate a beam of light, which is then focused through a lense or series of lenses and pointed at an enemy, who then becomes very hot and probably explodes. Contrary to popular misconception, laser weapons generally do not rely on focused beams (and when they do it's for boring a hole, not making clean cuts), but rather rapid pulses which heat a thin surface layer up until it becomes plasma. At this point, the plasma attempts to disperse and cool down, and in the process creates a violent explosion. This repeats until the poor unlucky sap it's pointed at is dead, their skin being stripped off and their fat having flash boiled.
Despite the simplicity of concept, lasers require powerful (and expensive) capacitors and complicated electronics to function effectively, and are thus far more expensive than firearms. They also, despite not needing any ammunition, are still expensive to use due to electricity costs and frequent maintenance. And on top of all this, their armour penetration is quite limited compared to other weapons of equivalent power. Why, then, are they used? Firstly, they have no recoil or muzzle flash and are relatively quiet. Secondly, they are generally more powerful than firearms and can ablate even the heaviest of armours given enough shots. Thirdly, they are quite reliable and maintenance, while often expensive, is quite easy. Finally, they can be used nearly indefinitely if kept in good condition, as they only use electricity and not any ammunition.

Utility

Lasers have many uses, but are most notably used for mining, surgery, welding, scientific instruments, and of course weaponry.

Inventor(s)

Theodore H. Maiman. Made into an effective infantry weapon by Katina Tallon and her scientists.

Access & Availability

Lasers are relatively common, though laser weaponry is generally not seen as a worthwhile investment for rank-and-file infantry. Mercenaries, pirates, and elite soldiers such as the Federal Rangers are known to rely on them, and they can be found frequently as shipboard weapons. Lower-powered lasers are easily within the reach of even working-class civilians.

Related Items

• Laser Pistol