The second generation phaser pulse pistol is the standard close combat sidearm issued to all Starfleet Marines. Pioneered in the mid 2370s, the PPP uses a similar firing method found in the Type IIIa compression phaser pulse rifle, but compacts it into a 'handgun' style configuration. Research has proven that the design not only is much easier to fire and aim than the Type II, but also has a much more profound psychological impact upon the target. This is partially due to the profound "theee-wump!" sound that the PPP gives off as it fires.
The refire rate on the PPP is staggering. The weapon is able to fire for extended periods, as fast as the user can pull the trigger. Depending on the setting, the side arm's power pack can fire as many as one hundred rounds (setting one).
The drawbacks to the PPP are it's increased size over the Type II, and its limitation of settings. There are only six options for power levels on the PPP. Two stun settings (equivalent to 2 and 3), two medium settings (equivalent to 4 and 6), and two heavy settings (equivalent to 7 and 9). However, the ease of use and ergonomics of the PPP outweigh these few limitations. Given the other side arms available for Marine use, and the close combat situation which the PPP was designed to operate under, the Marine Corps has deemed these drawbacks acceptable and the PPP is the one weapon that every Marine, no matter their specialty, carries.