What is the Blaster Rifle?

The standard Imperial sidearm is the BlasTech E-11 blaster rifle. This weapon has a three-position stock which allows for optimum bracing during use. Entrenched field troopers typically lock the stock in its fully open position for protracted firing on a constant target point. In full assault or unpredictable situations where agility is key, the stock is kept folded in its fully closed position, as seen here for the escort of a Rebel prisoner.

Imperial blasters are substantially more powerful than most civilian sidearms and can often penetrate the combat armor worn by stormtroopers. Captured weapons in the hands of Rebel elements can lend significant power to the opposition.