T2-212 (COLT MODEL 2380) COMPRESSION PISTOL

The success of the T3-211 phaser proved that compression technology was the future of Federation small arms. Despite adopting a new “beam” phaser in 2378, Starfleet R&D issued a tender for a compressed hand phaser only months later. After assessing multiple bids, the contract was awarded to Colt Manufacturing Company.

 By the late 24th century, Colt had been producing firearms for over 500 years and was one of the few companies to survive the Eugenics Wars, making it an ideal choice for this project. Starfleet’s brief specifically called for a more tactical design than the “dolphin” phasers, leading Colt to adopt a traditional pistol-shaped design—the first for Starfleet in over 15 years.

 Although the T2-212, or Colt Model 2380, was not Starfleet’s first Type-2 compression phaser—that distinction belonged to the T2-211, developed in the early 2360s—it was the first practical implementation. The T2-211’s large size, weight, and limited recharge rate meant it saw only limited deployment. Incorporating the latest Federation technology, Colt managed to shrink the T3-211’s compressed action to fit the T2-212’s smaller frame while improving recharge rate, reliability, and emitter design. As a result, the T2-212 was more mechanically accurate than expected for its size.

 The latter half of the 24th century was challenging for the Federation, and this influenced its technological priorities, including small arms design. Around the same time as the T3-211 tender, Starfleet R&D began developing the Type-3 T3-222 phaser, emphasizing tactical improvements such as force multipliers and ergonomic enhancements. Colt worked closely with R&D to ensure the T2-212 shared this tactical design ethos.

 The T2-212 had a more military feel compared to earlier hand phasers, retaining the advanced onboard computer systems of the beam phaser, now controlled through an integrated optics touchscreen. However, it incorporated tactile interfaces similar to the T3-222, including a cross-bolt stun/kill switch for quick power-setting changes, a shake-awake digital optic, backup iron sights, an integrated trigger safety, and an ergonomic pistol grip. These features allowed operators to draw and engage much faster than with dolphin-style phasers, greatly enhancing effectiveness. Additionally, the phaser used a detachable in-grip power cell based on the T3-222’s design, offering greater power capacity and faster reloading—critical for the energy-intensive compressed action. However, at 700 grams and 25 cm long, the T2-212 was larger and heavier than previous Type-2 phasers, though still far more compact than the T2-211.

 Adopted officially in late 2380, hence the Colt designation, the T2-212 was initially issued to Starfleet Special Operations (SFSO) personnel, who valued its increased functionality and lethality. It quickly replaced most beam phasers in SFSO inventories. However, its fleet-wide adoption encountered resistance, particularly from older Starfleet officers who felt its aggressive design conflicted with Starfleet’s peaceful mission. As a result, the T2-212 and beam phasers were used concurrently until the late 2390’s.

 Despite these challenges, the T2-212’s advanced features and tactical advantages made it a significant milestone in the evolution of Starfleet small arms.