Laser rifle

A Centurion's weapon of choice is the laser rifle.

Laser rifles are larger weapons in both the Colonials and the Cylons arsenals, although they are more commonly used by Centurions.

Cylon version

The version used by the Cylons is wielded by Centurions and is capable of operating in all types of conditions, including cold ^{(TOS: "The Gun on Ice Planet Zero, Part I")} and damp ^{(TOS: "The Young Lords")} conditions.

The notable differences between this and the Colonial version is the circular muzzle, in addition to a small, jagged bayonet made from a clear material.

Tie-in Material Information

• According to Encyclopedia Galactica (a non-canonical piece of merchandise published in 1979):

Cylon lasers are large and powerful.

In the separate continuity

During a fierce offense by the Maytorians, Freg uses a stolen Cylon laser rifle's bayonet against a Centurion's head ^{(Comics: Classic Battlestar Galactica Vol. 1 #3)}.

In close-quarters combat, Cylons will use rifle bayonets against their targets, even if it would be easier to kill them by simply firing at point-blank range to already prone targets ^{(Comics: Classic Battlestar Galactica Vol. 1 #1, Classic Battlestar Galactica Vol. 1 #4)}. This may suggest tactics that hew more towards personal predilections than tactical expediency.

While these bayonets are effective against humans, they are also effective at penetrating through Cylon armor ^{(Comics: Classic Battlestar Galactica Vol. 1 #2 — 4)}.

Colonial version

An Eastern Alliance enforcer wields a confiscated Colonial laser rifle.

The Colonial versions of these rifles do not appear to be commonly used by Colonial Warriors, although they are kept aboard the Prison Barge.

The notable difference is the the large crystal at the muzzle-end of the rifle, in addition to a sequential light at the side of the weapon, apparently indicating power ^{(TOS: "Baltar's Escape")}.

External links

• Article on the Colonial laser rifle with pictures of the original prop at Battlestar Zone
• Article on the interior electronics of the Colonial laser rifle prop at Battlestar Zone