Bullpup
From Halopedia, the Halo Wiki
| There is more information available on this subject at Bullpup on the English-language Wikipedia. |
The term bullpup describes the configuration of several types of automatic or select-fire weapons. At its most basic, the magazine reciever is located at the rear of the weapon, in or near the stock. The trigger is placed further forward than the magazine, and can be used as a grip.
[edit] Advantages
The barrel length is increased because it can extend further back, meaning that the overall weapon can be shorter than its "normal" counterparts. In turn, the longer barrel increases the accuracy of the weapon, increasing its effectiveness.
[edit] Disadvantages
Unfortunately, because casings typically eject from one side, users who are left-handed and use a weapon configured for right-handed firing may be hit in the face by very hot bullet cases, risking facial damage. Bullpup weapons also tend to be unbalanced and back-heavy because of the magazine placement, have awkward reloading, and the muzzle blast is closer to the user's face, which could affect their accuracy or blind them, which of course, is dangerous.
Some of these disadvantages can be lessened through the use of a full-face visor and helmet combination, such as all SPARTAN-II and Spartan-III helmets.
