SSR Special Weapons
Pioneered in the mid 2370s, the PPP uses a similar firing method found in the Type IIIA Compression Phaser Rifle, but compacts it into a '20th Century handgun' style configuration. Research has proven that the design not only is much easier to fire and aim than the Type II, but also has a much more profound psychological impact upon the target. This is partially due to the rapid "POW!-POW!-POW!" sound that the PPP gives off as it fires.
There are only three power levels on the PPP: Stun - equilivant to a setting of level 5, Frag - equilivant to a setting of level 9, and Full - eqilivant to a setting of level 16. However, the ease of use and ergonomics of the PPP outweigh the heavy criticism. Given the other side arms available for Marine use, and the close combat situation which the PPP was designed to operate under, the Marine Corps has deemed the SPP9 acceptable and the PPP is the one weapon that every Marine, no matter their specialty, carries.
The refire rate on the PPP is staggering. The weapon is able to fire for extended periods, as fast as the user can pull the trigger. The P93R and the P92X however has proven to be a very useful tools for Security personnel in frantic, Close-Quarters Combat. It is light enough to be easy to carry around, and has a select firing option similar to the ECR16 Rifle, which can fire at semi or fully automatic.
The M3A4 Phaser Pistol is an upgraded version of the same weapon fielded in the later half of the 23rd Century. Upgrades include new Prefire chamber, more powerful emitters, and a chip installed in the fire control to randomly alter frequencies with each burst.
As for the other three PPP's, the Beretta P92 Mod. F is the new Security Issue Phaser, the SPP9 and SPP45 are used for Government Work, and the P23 SOCOM is the standard issue weapon given to Special Ops operatives, and it also an optional weapon to Commanding Officers.
Another new idea for the weapon is a portable power cell, which was previously used on hand phasers circa 2287, like the M3A4. Each power cell is contained in a magazine clip. After each clip is depleted, it can be replaced and ready to fire in seconds. Research by both developers and field combatants have seen if the internal power cell is malfunctioning, the entire weapon is useless. All of the side arms� power pack magazine clips contain 50 pulse charges at all three settings, except for the P93R which holds 100.