Jamie, man... I'm not even going to get into this one really. We all know the blaster is largely superior to the slugthrower, with a few exceptions, but I'm sticking with slugthrowers here.Added (25 Aug 2012, 4:40 PM)
---------------------------------------------
Okay, now that's I'm a little more fed and relaxed, I'll try to answer your points Jamie.
1. True. Can't counter that one.
2. These aren't meant for mass sale; these will be specific to the Stark Defense Conglomerate Security Corps.
3. Not all slugthrowers require extensive oiling, and even spit works in many cases (I've done this personally).
4. Yup, got me beat here, but I don't see company defense forces needing to fight at that distance.
5. Security forces for company assets aren't likely to see prolonged combat as a true soldier, such as a stormtrooper would. The excess weight simply means they'll just have to get used to having stronger legs.
6. Granted, a DC-15 is going to have better range and armor-penetration, but it's nothing the MX8 won't do at shorter ranges, especially with armor-penetrating explosive-tipped rounds.
7. Recoil compensation within the MX8 series lower recoil, although do not eliminate it. Instead, users learn the value of accurate shots and do not waste rounds.
8. With a makeup of a titanium exterior and plasticized parts that are highly heat resistant and rugged, I don't foresee a great amount of stoppages. These things are built to last, much like the AK-47 which can go through hell and still be fired, unlike the American M-16 and M4 counterparts.
9. A slugthrower utilizing an electrochemical propellant can still be fired in space as it doesn't use traditional combustion, although the blaster still has the greater range.
10. I'll get these in order.
A) As you mentioned, slugthrowers are more expensive and the ammo loadouts for prolonged fights are extensive. This is likely one of many reasons the Republic opted for blasters. I don't see a 10mm armor-piercing explosive-tipped round being truly any less effective against basic battle droids, though the odds of Stark's defense forces encountering an army of such are slim. Their opponents are likely to be hijackers and raiders and the ammunition they use is more than sufficient to handle such.
Blasters may be more humane, but there's also such things like sonic stunner pistols that would be issued as backup weapons if the need arose. By and large, any hijacker can simply be shot on sight. Dead is dead whether from a bullet or a blaster bolt.
C) Pack extra ammo.
D) The SDCSC is not an assassination organization.
