The EC-17 hold-out blaster, also known by names such as the scout pistol, flash pistol, or scout trooper blaster, was a standard hold-out blaster pistol utilized by Imperial scout troopers and patrol troopers. Its manufacturer was BlasTech Industries.
This compact, one-handed blaster, produced by BlasTech Industries, incorporated a built-in targeting scope to improve aiming and a short-range laser emitter. Some versions also included a small, very bright light attached to the main barrel, which could be activated to "flash-stun" an opponent, causing temporary blindness. A distinctive feature of the EC-17, setting it apart from similar-sized blaster pistols of comparable power, was its uniquely positioned trigger. Located on the side, rather than underneath the barrel, this design facilitated easier firing while wearing gloves. The blaster was optimized for close-range engagements, resulting in reduced accuracy at longer distances.
During the era of the Galactic Empire, the EC-17 became the standard sidearm for both scout troopers and patrol troopers, commonly carried in a trooper's boot holster. Soldiers of the Rebel Alliance also made use of this weapon during the Galactic Civil War. Scout troopers on Endor were seen wielding it during the Battle of Endor.