Q2 hold-out blaster
The Q2 hold-out blaster pistol was a type of blaster weapon produced by Merr-Sonn Munitions, Inc. during the era of the Galactic Republic. Its design was based upon the ELG line of Diplomat's Blasters from the SoroSuub Corporation, a line that also features the ELG-3A blaster pistol.
Description
The Q2 hold-out blaster was compact enough to be hidden within the hand of a Human, making it a popular choice for undercover operatives and individuals seeking a discreet weapon. Due to its diminutive size, many governmental bodies outlawed this blaster pistol, while others imposed strict regulations on its use. Other planetary systems tended to see it as a "self-defense" option compared to other, more potent personal blaster models.
In terms of dimensions, the Q2 was actually taller than its length, measuring only 9.6 cm long and 10.3 cm tall—measured from the base of the grip to the top of the receiver. It required a specialized power pack, which was available for purchase from any authorized Merr-Sonn vendor for a cost of twenty credits. This power source provided energy for a total of six shots. In contrast to most handheld blaster weapons, the Q2 discharged green-colored blaster bolts, in a similar manner to the S-5 heavy blaster pistol.
History
Queen Padmé Amidala along with her group of handmaidens received training to expertly wield these weapons. Given the belief that the Queen should possess a final means of defense in the event of an assault, a hidden stash of these blasters was concealed within a secret compartment located in the armrest of her throne. During an attack by bounty hunters Chata Hyoki and Robonino, Senator Padmé Amidala unsuccessfully attempted to use a Q2 to subdue them.
Later, the smuggler Dash Rendar employed it as a last-ditch measure while defending holostar Javul Charn from an assault by the Anomid assassin known as Edge. During the time of the Galactic Civil War, the Valarian criminal syndicate obtained a supply of Q2 blasters. Lady Valarian's second-in-command, Ind, equipped her new recruits with this particular weapon.