The Kemphler DD280 Riot Control Device has the ability to resist and reflect incoming projectiles and energy beams. The plasma wave inflicts massive damage, rupturing tissue, pulverizing organs and flooding the bloodstream with dangerous gas bubbles. This weapon may be intended for combat at close range, but when wielded properly should be considered as dangerous as any other armament in your arsenal. -- Official description

The Shield Gun should be used only in emergencies. It takes a few seconds for it to reach full charge, and you have to be right next to an enemy in order to get a hit.

The primary fire is the only method of fire for the weapon. The longer you hold the button, the more powerful it becomes. When you have it charged, you must run into an enemy, and the gun will discharge automatically. This sounds like it is a powerful weapon, but being so close to your enemy can result in you being killed first.

The secondary firing mode brings up a plasma shield that guard against incoming fire from in front of you. It will protect against all standard weapons, except for weapons that cause splash damage (Rocket Launcher, Flak Cannon). Over time, the shield will eventually wear down, leaving you vulnerable. It’s best used if you have just spawned and are under attack; like the Assault Rifle, it may give you enough time to find some decent weapons.

Despite the uselessness of the weapon, it does serve two purposes. For one, you can use it to jump to higher ledges or buildings by doing a ‘shield jump’. Like the rocket jump in some games, you charge up the Shield Gun’s primary mode and aim at the ground. Press the jump button and release the fire button at the same time, and you will get some extra height on your jump.

The second purpose is to use the shield to reduce damage you take from falling. When you fall off a high ledge or eject from a Raptor, aim the gun at the ground, and hold the secondary fire to bring up the shield. When you land, the shield will absorb some of the damage, giving you the chance to live from a big drop. Don’t always rely on this, though, as you can still be killed, depending on the height you’ve fallen and your health/armor.