Quick Answer
The M90 Shotgun is the definitive close-range weapon in Halo Combat Evolved. It delivers devastating one-shot kills at point-blank range against nearly every enemy type. During Flood missions — especially The Library — the Shotgun is essentially mandatory, as it destroys Flood combat forms in a single blast and handles swarms that would overwhelm other weapons.
M90 Shotgun Stats
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Official Designation | M90 Close Assault Weapon System |
| Type | Pump-Action Shotgun |
| Magazine Size | 12 shells |
| Max Reserve Ammo | 60 shells (5 reloads) |
| Fire Rate | ~60 RPM (limited by pump action) |
| Reload Time | ~0.5s per shell (individual loading) |
| Damage (Point Blank) | Extreme — one-shot kill on most enemies |
| Damage (Medium Range) | Low — significant damage falloff |
| Effective Range | 0-15 meters |
Damage Falloff
The Shotgun's effectiveness is heavily range-dependent:
| Range | Damage | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| 0-5 meters (Point Blank) | Maximum | One-shot kills on Elites, Flood combat forms |
| 5-10 meters (Close) | High | Two-shot kills; still lethal |
| 10-15 meters (Medium-Close) | Moderate | Three or more shots needed |
| 15+ meters (Medium) | Minimal | Pellet spread too wide; use Magnum instead |
Best Uses
Flood Combat Forms — The Primary Use Case
The M90 Shotgun's most important role is as the definitive Flood-killing weapon. One blast to the center mass of a Flood combat form destroys it instantly. This reliability is essential during Flood missions where combat forms rush you in numbers.
Elite Close-Quarters Combat
In confined spaces (Covenant ship corridors, Forerunner interiors), the Shotgun out-performs every weapon except the Energy Sword. Two quick blasts drop most Elite variants.
Hunter Back Shots
If you can position behind a Hunter, a Shotgun blast to the exposed orange flesh is a guaranteed kill — even more forgiving than the Magnum back-shot since the pellet spread covers a larger area.
The Library: Shotgun Survival Guide
The Library is Halo CE's most infamous mission — endless Flood waves in tight corridors. The Shotgun is not optional here. Key strategies:
- Shotgun + Magnum Loadout: Shotgun for combat forms at close range; Magnum for carrier forms at distance
- Never Stop Moving: Retreat constantly. The Shotgun's pump-action between shots means you need space to cycle the action
- Aim Center Mass: Don't aim for headshots with the Shotgun — center mass pellets spread to maximize damage
- Reload During Downtime: The Shotgun reloads one shell at a time. Use any brief pause to top off the magazine
- Melee Between Shots: If a Flood form survives your Shotgun blast, melee immediately — don't wait for the pump action
Frequently Asked Questions
Shotgun vs Energy Sword — which is better?
The Energy Sword is the ultimate close-range weapon (one-hit kill, lunge, no reload), but it has limited battery. The Shotgun has more sustained usability with its 12-shell magazine and 60-shell reserve. For Flood missions, Shotgun wins due to durability.
How many shots to kill an Elite?
At point-blank range: 2 shots (any difficulty). At 5-10 meters: 3-4 shots. Beyond 10 meters: switch to Magnum instead — you're wasting shells.
Is the Shotgun good against Hunters?
Excellent — if you can flank them. One blast to the exposed back flesh kills a Hunter. From the front, the Shotgun does almost nothing against their armor. Always flank.
Does the Shotgun benefit from headshots?
No. The Shotgun fires pellets that spread, and there is no headshot multiplier for shotgun pellets. Aim for center mass to maximize pellets on target.