SF12 Handcannon

The biggest weapon officers are allowed to requisition in stead of a Standard Rifle, the SR12 handcannon has a folding mechanism not unlike that of a Scattergun. A Large Rifle Shell is loaded into the breach and turned a quarter turn. The gun can then be folded back into its ready position. Unlike regular cartridges, shells are loaded with gunpowder or other explosive material. As such, pressurizing them as done with cartridges proves impractical. As such, the cannon itself delivers all energy required by the shell. This is normally not practical due to the higher fire rates involved. A clamp is folded over the breach to secure it in place. When the trigger is pulled, a large boiler at the back of the gun is opened and all the pressure built up up to that point is released into the barrel, launching the shell at high velocity. The back ring, previously sealing the shell airtight into the barrel, has now broken off and remained in the barrel. This is to be twisted loose and removed after cooling for a brief period.   Similar to smaller guns, a test round is to be used to calibrate a handcannon monthly. If the shell is loaded correctly and the gun is calibrated correct, the shell should fall clear perfectly, not remain in the barrel or launched.

The wood is carved into structural elements that bear no heavy loads. The steel is rifled into the barrel and all that surrounds it. The brass is cast into the shape of a boiler. The aluminium is cast into small trigger elements. The normally present vent is now simply replaced with a large valve.   These parts are then assembled.

Few officers opt for a handcannon over a SR7 Revolver or S59 Pistol. Those that do, do so have seen things no one should ever wish to. Loaded with shells, rather than cartridges, handcannons are capable of delivering immense force.