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"It was the lights. We tried to hide wherever we could. Cupboards, floorboards, even curtains, anywhere we could. But they always found us, and it was always with them. Those damn red lights..."
-Survivor of the Capella Protests recounting 'Bloodhound' armed CMA Marines clearing homes
The CQS20 'Bloodhound', formerly the VK20, is a 10-gauge shotgun based on the CQS48 'Bulldog' developed and produced by Misriah Armory, and formerly by Vakara GesmbH under the designation, VSK20. At the time of its introduction, the Bloodhound was considered an inferior counterpart to the M45 and M90 series of combat shotguns. This led to the weapon being quickly rejected by the UNSC but embraced by the CMA, provided it could be produced under license by Vakara GesmbH.
This decision would cement the CQS20, then VSK20, as a competitor to the M45/90 series, as Vakara incorporated many of their own improvements, including new shells and high-capacity drums. While the M45s and M90s had versatile dual-feed systems and the infamous 8-gauge shells, the VSK20 provided its own advantages. Its pump-drum feed system allows users to cycle from lethal to non-lethal ammunition types without having to cycle the action.
Its introduction into service by the CMA and its regular use in suppressing colonial protests cemented it, and its imposing red lights, as a symbol of security and oppression throughout the Outer Colonies. Its reputation and distinctive red lights eventually earned it the nickname 'Bloodhound' by users and victims alike.
Following the dissolution of the CMA during Operation: TREBUCHET, leftover weapons were recovered by UNSC forces. They were well regarded and eventually saw production in 8-gauge by Misriah Armoury. These became popular with security forces once again and were even used by special forces with specialized loadings.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/15uAZtdluQ-XLvZHPMOtCYAs_Hhzf_Nph/view?usp=sharing
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