Clarify the Doctors can't use guns rule.

[Wickedtemp]

I'm debating adjusting the rule anyway to possibly allow "Service pistols" (no revolver). Still though, the rule would say "in self defense or defense of wounded" to prevent front-line combat doctors.

I completely agree with this change. Normally by the time doctors would need weapons, most of everything is fucked anyways so a few people with pistols won't do much to change the tide of the 'war', but it's still more realistic and reasonable than the previous "No guns, ever." rule.

I think helmets would also be allowed with this, under the same "in self defense or defense of wounded" prerequisite. Given that a hugger is a game over when being boarded, and also friendly fire is a major bitch. I'd even be in favor of armor for medics AND doctors, the sprite for it would be completely white so medical personal can be identified easily. It could work under the medbay "red alert/boarding only" vendor. 4 Pistols, 4 clips, 4 medic helmets and 4 medic armor sets. Maybe 4 extra combat life-saver bags too, so a doctor can grab what they need and evac immediately if needed. But, that's a thread for another time.

[Johnnychimp]

I'm debating adjusting the rule anyway to possibly allow "Service pistols" (no revolver). Still though, the rule would say "in self defense or defense of wounded" to prevent front-line combat doctors.

I support this, I think pistols should be fine for anyone onboard to carry, .44 Magnum for officers only [As the flavor text implies.]

[Sanchez13]

I'm in favor of a Doctor being able to pick up a gun, fire it a few times, but have it coded so that there is a 4% chance of the doctor(civilian) getting knocked out, dropping the gun, or getting random major brute to the head/chest with each shot fired due to recoil they do not know how to compensate.

+1 this. If there was a programmed mechanic for doctors (similar to the Swedish accent for cooks in Goonstation) to randomly accidentally leave the safety on (keeping the gun from firing), accuracy reduction, or suffering from recoil (mild brute damage/knockdown), it would not only be more realistic if a civvie doctor without basic training attempted to fire a gun, but it would salve the controversy over doctors being capable of firing guns or not. Doctors would be encouraged to stay away from the front lines, while still being able to defend themselves in a limited capacity. Although guns are generally user-friendly in real life for virtually every able-bodied human on the planet(even children), many tend to have unique safeties and require a tiny bit of practice to keep a proper bead on a target. That's my two cents, anyways, and it's perfectly fine if it takes too much time and effort to properly program.

[apophis775]

This will be clarified with the new ruleset that goes into affect Jan 1st. The new ruleset will be published today or tomorrow for people to see.