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/Morinth, and Zaeed. Squadmates deal 45% less damage than Shepard.

Player Notes

 * 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.
 * The Targeting VI upgrade reduces the bullet spread, allowing it to compete with the Vindicator at medium range.

Trivia

 * Many cutscenes show Shepard and other squad members using the Avenger, even if they don't have use of it in-game.
 * Weapons lockers show an Avenger picture as their icon.
 * The appearance is based on the default Hahne-Kedar "Lancer" assault rifle in Mass Effect – the original Elkoss Combine "Avenger" rifle had the same 3D model but a red texture without the M7 markings.
 * The side of the rifle's scope is emblazoned with the words "Hard Lock." One place where it is easy to see this is at the end of the game, when Joker is providing covering fire, shooting down at the Collector infantry.