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Decoding the Shorty: Unpacking the Last of Us’ Devastating Hand Cannon

The Shorty in The Last of Us is essentially a sawed-off shotgun pistol. It’s a compact, devastating weapon, sacrificing range and accuracy for immense close-quarters stopping power. Its in-game depiction closely mirrors real-world sawed-off shotguns, specifically those built upon platforms like the Mossberg Maverick 88, Mossberg 500, or Remington 870. These shotguns are known for their robust and reliable construction, making them ideal for modification into the fearsome Shorty. In The Last of Us, it is your go-to gun for close quarter encounters.

The Shorty: More Than Just a Sawed-Off Shotgun

The Shorty isn’t simply a visual flourish; it’s a carefully considered gameplay element that reflects the desperate and brutal world of The Last of Us. Let’s delve into what makes it so unique.

Design and Inspiration

The design of the Shorty draws heavily from real-world “AOW” (Any Other Weapon) shotguns, specifically those that have been legally modified (or illegally, depending on the context). The Serbu Super-Shorty is a real-world example that closely resembles the in-game Shorty, though with some artistic license.

Gameplay Mechanics

In The Last of Us, the Shorty serves a crucial role:

Close-Quarters Combat: Its primary function is to dominate encounters at point-blank range. One or two shots are typically enough to eliminate most enemies.
Finisher Weapon: As noted in the article you provided, its high damage output makes it a perfect weapon to quickly dispatch weakened enemies.
Strategic Pairing: Its limited range and slow reload encourages players to combine it with other weapons, like a rifle or a pistol, for a more versatile loadout.
Upgradability: Like many weapons in the game, the Shorty can be upgraded to improve its performance, increasing its magazine size (from two to six shells), reload speed, and stability.

In-Game Lore and Context

The presence of the Shorty also tells a story about the world. The fact that these weapons are relatively common suggests a breakdown of law and order, where individuals have resorted to extreme modifications of firearms for survival.

Shorty vs. Other Weapons: A Comparative Analysis

Understanding the Shorty requires comparing it to other weapons in the game.

Shorty vs. Pump Shotgun

The Shorty sacrifices range and accuracy compared to the full-size pump shotgun in The Last of Us. However, the Shorty boasts a much faster rate of fire and better maneuverability. The full-size shotgun is effective at medium range, while the Shorty excels at close-quarters. Fully upgraded, the rate of fire and the reload speed also improve.

Shorty vs. Pistols

While pistols offer better range and accuracy, the Shorty delivers significantly higher damage per shot. Pistols are more versatile, but the Shorty is king when it comes to quickly eliminating threats at close range.

Shorty as a strategic gun

Its effectiveness depends on its use in the game. If you are fighting large groups in close corridors, a shorty can be a life saver.

Shorty in Factions Multiplayer

The Shorty also appears as a purchasable weapon in the Factions multiplayer mode. Its low cost makes it a popular choice for eco rounds, where players have limited resources. Its one-shot kill potential at close range can turn the tide of a match.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Shorty

Here are some common questions players have about this iconic weapon:

What kind of gun is the Shorty based on in real life? The Shorty is inspired by real-world sawed-off shotguns, often built on platforms like the Mossberg Maverick 88, Mossberg 500, or Remington 870.
Where can I find the Shorty in The Last of Us? The first Shorty can be found in the sewers during “The Suburbs” chapter, after setting off the first sound trap. Another is later found on an infected after Joel is separated from the group.
How many bullets does the Shorty hold? By default, the Shorty holds only two shells. This can be upgraded to six shells.
Is the Shorty better than the full-size shotgun in The Last of Us? Not necessarily. The Shorty has a faster rate of fire but is weaker and has a much shorter range. The full-size shotgun is more effective at medium range.
Is the Shorty a good weapon in The Last of Us? Yes, especially for close-quarters combat and as a finisher weapon.
Can the Shorty kill in one shot? Yes, at close range. The game states it shoots 12 pellets, but it actually shoots 15. Hitting with 9-11 pellets is enough for a one-shot kill.
Is the Shorty a pistol? The Shorty is a pistol-like weapon in The Last of Us because of the pistol grip and compact size, but it is a shotgun.
Is the Shorty shotgun legal? In the United States, the Super-Shorty (a real-world equivalent) is classified as an “Any Other Weapon” (AOW) and requires registration and a tax stamp.
What is a sawed-off shotgun called? Sawed-off shotguns are also called scatterguns, sawn-off shotguns, short-barreled shotguns, shorties, or boom sticks.
How do I upgrade the Shorty? Like other weapons, the Shorty can be upgraded using scrap found throughout the game at workbenches.
What is the most powerful weapon in The Last of Us? While opinions vary, the Flamethrower and fully upgraded Hunting Rifle are often considered among the most powerful.
What is Joel’s primary weapon in The Last of Us? Joel primarily uses a Taurus Model 66 revolver.
What 9mm pistol does Joel use in The Last of Us? In The Last of Us Part I, Joel uses a Browning Hi-Power as his 9mm pistol.
Does Ellie use Joel’s revolver? Yes, after Joel’s death, Ellie takes the revolver as a memento.
What makes the Shorty useful in Factions multiplayer? Its low cost and one-shot kill potential make it a valuable choice for eco rounds or pistol rounds.

The Shorty is more than just a weapon in The Last of Us; it’s a symbol of desperation, adaptability, and the brutal realities of survival in a post-apocalyptic world. Its effectiveness, combined with its compelling design and gameplay mechanics, makes it one of the most memorable firearms in gaming.

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What kind of gun is the Shorty in the last of us?