Pulse weapon

Pulse weapons are ranged weapons that fire superheated packets or beams of plasma.

History
During the early Occupation, human scientists were quick to adapt the Combine's mastery of dark energy for weapon systems. Pulse technology, as it came to be known, proved to be an effective and deadly platform for small arms and artillery. Resistance forces also made use of pulse weaponry. After the Liberation, pulse weaponry saw continued use by rebel forces. Many attempts were made to mass produce Combine models, but the designs proved difficult to recreate. Refined forms of pulse technology based on the Overwatch platforms eventually became standard issue for numerous forces such as the Urban Defense Department, following internal lobbying.

Civilians sometimes convert conventional weapons into pulse weapons in a process known as volking.