After 48 Years, Star Wars Finally Reveals the True Functionality of Blasters

The Star Wars franchise, which has captivated audiences for nearly five decades, has recently showcased a pivotal aspect of blasters within its live-action adaptations. Blasters, iconic among the galaxy’s arsenal, are available in various models, all of which fundamentally operate by discharging pulses of irradiated explosive gas, known as blaster bolts. Upon impact with solid surfaces, these bolts detonate, making them formidable weapons.

Throughout the expansive Star Wars universe, which spans multiple media formats and two central continuities, blasters exhibit a range of firing modes. The “kill” setting is the most prevalent, while the “stun” mode is typically reserved for incapacitating foes. However, the efficiency of these weapons can vary significantly. Many civilian-grade blasters struggle to penetrate reinforced body armor, like that worn by clone troopers and stormtroopers, as well as durable droids such as Super Battle Droids. In contrast, military-grade and illicit blasters can often bypass these defenses with ease.

The Versatility of Blaster Power Settings

Harrison Ford as Han Solo in Star Wars holding a blaster and looking at the camera from behind and to the side

A crucial yet frequently overlooked feature of blasters is their adjustable power settings. When dialed down, a blaster can merely singe surfaces or create shallow dents, but at maximum power, it is capable of melting through robust materials or unleashing substantial explosions. Noteworthy demonstrations of varying power settings can be observed in both The Empire Strikes Back and Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

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Despite the clear implications of power variability across the franchise’s numerous installments showcasing blaster combat, direct references to blaster power settings are notably scarce. The 1976 novelization of A New Hope by Alan Dean Foster provides an in-depth description, and occasional mentions can be found in the classic Marvel comics. Recently, however, The Mandalorian featured a direct dialogue about blaster settings in Season 1, Episode 4, dubbed “Chapter 4: Sanctuary,” wherein Din Djarin engages Cara Dune in this topic.

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Skeleton Crew: A Landmark Moment for Blaster Power Adjustments

Wim Changing Blaster Settings in Skeleton Crew Episode 4

In a groundbreaking move, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew showcased the adjustment of blaster power settings in Episode 4, titled “Can’t Say I Remember No At Attin.” This episode marks the first time that a live-action Star Wars production has visually depicted the mechanics of blaster power adjustment. A character named Wim tests the Troik’s blasters, adjusting to a high power setting, which results in a powerful kickback that knocks him down. This moment recalls a scene from the original Star Wars novelization, where Luke Skywalker sets a stormtrooper’s blaster to maximum, overpowering him and causing the weapon to become too hot to handle after just one shot.