The Relby-k23 blaster pistol, manufactured by BlasTech Industries, was a restricted weapon, unavailable for purchase by civilians and instead employed by operatives of the Galactic Empire. A notable characteristic was its low refraction index; this property minimized beam dispersion upon firing the blaster. The beam emitted from this blaster pistol caused intense suffering to any individual struck by it. A significant flaw of the Relby-k23 was its unreliable safety mechanism. The Bespin Wing Guard officers were documented users of the Relby-k23 blaster pistol while on duty. Due to the limitations on the sale of these blaster pistols, the Cloud City quartermaster had to resort to illicit acquisitions.