Mashimo

The **Mashimo** is the first design of the eponymous arms manufacturer. It is a plasma machine pistol with a *harmonic microcontroller* that allows it to channel an increased fire rate the longer the trigger is pulled, making it an effective combat sidearm in close range combat scenarios where compact firepower is required.

## Design

The Mashimo A8 boasts a distinctive and innovative design that sets it apart from traditional sidearms. It features a unique thumbhole grip design, situated at the back of the trigger, which enhances the one-handed grip and control when firing. This design element is incorporated into the lower green frame, which encompasses both the grip and trigger assembly.

The upper section of the pistol houses the barrel and energy components. Instead of a conventional magazine, the Mashimo A8 employs a replaceable battery pack at the rear of the upper frame. This battery pack serves as the energy source for the plasma shots, eliminating the need for traditional cartridges. Each battery pack holds enough energy for 25 shots before requiring replacement. The absence of a bolt mechanism simplifies reloading, as troopers can swiftly swap out the spent battery pack for a fully charged one.

The Mashimo A8 is equipped with a harmonic microcontroller that enhances its rate of fire when the trigger is held down, allowing for rapid, sustained fire. This plasma machine pistol is known for its compact design and ease of use, making it a favored sidearm among SDF troopers for close-quarters combat situations.

The A8 has green tritium sights for night operations and ease of use.

### Specifications

* Length: 201mm
* Caliber: **DX3.5**
* Effective Range: 75 Meters
* Weight: **1.4** kg

## Trivia

### General

* The Mashimo A8 does not support suppressor attachments, as it is designed to discharge plasma energy, which is inherently loud and the heat would be taxing for the suppressor, unlike conventional firearms.
* SDF soldiers often affectionately refer to the Mashimo A8 as the "Mash" for short, reflecting its unique design and reputation as a reliable sidearm in the field.
* The Mashimo A8 stands out among plasma weapons for its surprising accuracy, even in fully automatic firing modes. This makes it a preferred choice for SDF troopers in situations where precise shots are required.
* An infamous variant of the Mashimo A8, known as the "**Invert Polarity**", features a distinctive tan frame and lacks the thumbhole grip design. However, what truly sets this variant apart is its unique operation. Unlike the standard model, the harmonic microcontroller in the "Invert Polarity" decreases the fire rate the longer the trigger is held down. This unusual feature has earned it a reputation as a challenging and quirky weapon among SDF personnel.
* SDF legionnaires clad in their Stryker combat gear have been known to wield two Mashimo A8 pistols simultaneously in close combat situations. This dual-wielding approach not only adds a touch of flair to their combat style but also provides them with additional firepower when engaging enemies at close range. It requires a high level of skill and coordination, but those who master it can be particularly formidable opponents on the battlefield.