M-8 Avenger

The M-8 Avenger is an assault rifle from Mass Effect 2.

In-Game Description
A common, versatile, military-grade assault rifle. Accurate when fired in burst shots, and deadly when fired on full auto. The Avenger is effective at penetrating shields, armor and biotic barriers. The modular design and inexpensive components of the Avenger make it a favorite of military groups and mercenaries alike. The Avenger has a reputation for being tough, reliable, easy to use, and easy to upgrade.

Manufactured by the Elkoss Combine.

Acquisition
This is the default assault rifle acquired during the Freedom's Progress mission at the beginning of the game, provided the player is a soldier. This weapon can be acquired later on for other classes by accepting assault rifle specialization on the Collector Cruiser.

Squad Use
This weapon can be used by Garrus, Grunt, Legion, Samara, and Zaeed. Squadmates deal 45% less damage than Shepard.

Player Notes

 * This weapon is the prefered assault rifle of many players on Insanity, due to its large ammo capacity, and its good performance against all kinds of defences, whereas the Geth Pulse Rifle and Collector Assault Rifle are both specialised towards shields and barriers.
 * It is fairly accurate at long range and with less recoil than the M-9 Tempest SMG and more recoil than the M-15 Vindicator Battle Rifle.

Trivia

 * Many cutscenes show Shepard using the Avenger, even if s/he doesn't have use of it in-game.
 * Weapons lockers show the Avenger as their icon.