Pulse weapons use electromagnetic induction fields to convert particles to a plasma state and propel them out the barrel of the weapon. They come in pistol, carbine, and rifle version.
The rifle version has a long range and high armour penetration. The carbine version maintain the same high armour penetration, but trades range and rate of fire for portability. Pistols are usually small hold-out weapons issued to tank crew and pilots. They have an extremely short range, but are only slightly less powerful than the carbine.