One of the most exciting new weapons being developed for the U.S. Marine Corps is the Multi-shot Accessory Underbarrel Launcher.
Semi-Automatic Shotgun
Known by the acronym "MAUL," this new state-of-the-art weapon is an ultra lightweight semi-automatic shotgun that is being developed by the company Metal Storm Ltd. based in Brisbane, Australia. What sets the MAUL shotgun apart is the variety of lethal and non-lethal munitions it can fire. These range from deadly buckshot and slug bullets to blunt impact munitions that can be used to breach doors and windows, and subdue civilians during times of unrest. The various munitions used with the MAUL weapon come preloaded in five round stacked projectile tubes.
The MAUL has a 12-gauge bore and is extremely lightweight at just 1.8 pounds. The weapon is being designed for use as a standalone gun or as an attachment underneath a combat rifle such as a M4 or M16. Other features include the ability to load five rounds of ammunition in less than two seconds, and rapid fire capabilities. For the U.S. Marine Corps, the MAUL is being designed to compliment assault weapons without adding additional weight or impacting a gun’s balance. MAUL can also be used seamlessly with a combat weapon’s primary sighting system.
Law Enforcement
The MAUL shotgun is still in the development phase and has not yet entered service with the U.S. Marine Corps. The weapon’s manufacturer, Metal Storm, is also developing a version of the MAUL for use with law enforcement agencies and correctional services. Tests have shown that the MAUL is effective at applying non-lethal force and assisting in clearing rooms – as well as helping with crowd control. The MAUL still has to undergo extensive tests with the U.S. military.