A blaster was a type of weapon, more specifically a directed energy weapon that operated by creating "blasts" of energy that cause damage to matter and disrupt force fields and deflector shields. Some popular hand-held weapon configurations of blasters included hand blasters (blaster pistols) and blaster rifles, as well as differing calibers of blaster emitters, including blaster cannons and blaster banks which could be used as mounted weapons on starships and other vehicles.
History and specifications
A blaster pistol was a common Romulan side arm in the 23rd century, circa the 2270s decade. (TOS - Rihannsu novel: The Romulan Way)
Types of blasters
- hand-held weapons:
- hand blaster/blaster pistol
- blaster rifle
- blaster cannon/blaster emitter (blaster banks)