Carbonite guns, alternatively called carbonite rifles, functioned as weapons discharging a brief burst of liquid carbonite that rapidly solidified upon contact with a target. This weapon system proved highly effective, capable of immobilizing targets ranging from small infantry units like a stormtrooper to significantly larger adversaries such as a rancor. Furthermore, they possessed the capability to render mechanical devices, including tanks, inoperable.
Initially, the carbonite gun might be mistaken for a standard blaster pistol. However, unlike the blaster pistol, this weapon emitted a striking deep ion blue blast upon firing. This blast could render an opponent immobile and vulnerable for a significant period of time. While immobilized, the target was susceptible to attack without any means of defense, or in some instances, could simply be incapacitated by a strike from the weapon's reinforced butt. After a short duration, the target would thaw, exhibiting no signs of hibernation sickness. The target could resume combat as if unaffected. While possessing a limited range, these weapons could be exceptionally effective and intimidating when wielded skillfully.
Reports from the Galactic Empire indicated that enemies wielding these weapons became formidable combatants.
Originally, scientists from the planet of Empress Teta invented the carbonite gun. However, control of the weapon subsequently passed to various other entities.
In 980 BBY, the potential use of carbonite guns to subdue Darth Bane was considered. This idea was ultimately rejected in favor of the senflax provided by Serra. The Huntress noted that their effects lasted for several minutes, rather than merely moments, suggesting a more advanced iteration of the weapon.
The Zann Consortium frequently provided their Pyn'gani slaves, who were highly skilled in mining carbonite, with these weapons when employing them to conquer planets.
Kyle Katarn and Mara Jade are documented to have encountered, and possibly utilized, a carbonite gun during Operation Shadow Hand.
Within the video games Star Wars: Empire at War and Star Wars: Empire at War: Forces of Corruption, only the Pyn'gani are able to utilize the carbonite gun.