Rad Pistol

A Rad Pistol is a lightweight, one-handed energy sidearm produced by Philo’s Groove that emits tightly focused beams of radiation rather than kinetic force. Its discharges cause little direct impact damage, but deeply irradiate organic targets, progressively destabilising and eroding their genetic structure in ways that are typically catastrophic and intensely painful. The weapon is largely ineffective against hardened technological systems, yet its low mass and unusually quiet operation make it easy to wield and discharge without drawing attention. In practice, it is favoured by users who value discretion and lethality over spectacle, able to fatally compromise a target long before the effects become obvious.

“You don’t hear it,” the merc said, tapping the little Rad Pistol against his visor. “No bang, no flash, no dramatic collapse, just a polite little beam and a very long, very bad week.” He shrugged. “By the time they realise something’s wrong, I’m already paid and planetside.”