Modular Combat Shotgun “MAKS”

▲MAKS in two different configurations.

“If you haven’t solved your problem with 12 rounds, it’s unlikely you could solve it with 12 more.” — anonymous Benerice Armory spokesperson, on the subject of MAKS’s long reloading time

The Modular Combat Shotgun (MAKS) is a semi-automatic revolver shotgun from /vnug/. It was designed in the early space-faring days of /vnug/, when the fledgling space military required a versatile personal weapon that could fulfill multiple roles within a strict weight and space limit.

As its name implies, its most distinguishing feature is its modular design, allowing for on-site customization depending on the need of the user. The core of MAKS is its receiver with a double action trigger group and a rail integration system. It is loaded with a spring-wounded revolving cylinder of varying capacity, from the default 12-round cylinder to 8- and 5-round compact cylinder. Despite that, it is not designed as a magazine-feed weapon. To mitigate the lengthy reloading time for the 12-round cylinder, it features a cartridge ejection system. When switched on, some of the gas from the cartridge being fired is used to push the previous shell casing out from the cylinder. An ejector rod is used to eject the last casing from the cylinder, or other spent shells when the gas ejection system is not enabled. This allows for a comparatively shorter loading time, while also allowing spent casing to be kept in the cylinder if needed, a concern when operating in crowded microgravity environment.

Multiple barrel length is available for MAKS, ranging from the compact 7- and 10-inch barrel, a 14-inch barrel with front sight, and an 18-inch barrel with both front and rear sight. Interchangeable chokes allow the user to alter the ballistic characteristics of the rounds, such as changing the spread of shot, improving stability, and accuracy at range. An optional underslung rail allows for additional attachment, such as handle, laser sight, or flashlight. In terms of stock options, the weapon comes with a pistol grip-only configuration, as well as a collapsing stock-and-grip for bracing, especially for users unused to the considerable recoil of slug-throwers. Other common options include folding stocks and butt hook. Similar to other weapons designed during the early days of space exploration, MAKS comes with a detachable trigger guard and trigger extension, allowing it to be used when wearing thick gloves or hardsuits.

While most commonly used as a double action-only semi-automatic shotgun, MAKS can also be operated as a single action revolver. Furthermore, it is also possible to use it as a full automatic shotgun due to mechanical wear, improper maintenance, or intentional modification of the trigger group. While the small cylinder capacity and increased barrel wear makes this firing mode impractical, unofficial full automatic modifications remain popular in niche circles where the rapid discharge is deemed desirable.

Like other shotguns, MAKS is capable of utilizing various types of ammunition. Buckshots are commonly used against unarmored target or when overpenetration is a serious hazard, while sabot slugs and heavy flechettes provide decent armor-piercing ability. Specialty ammunition such as incendiary rounds, explosive rounds, rubber bulelts, and TASER rounds also see common use in niche situations, where their large casing and physical ammunition perform roles that cannot be filled by the more common energy weapons.