A blaster was a type of weapon, more specifically a directed energy weapon that operated by creating "blasts" of energy that cause damage to matter. Some popular hand-held weapon configurations of blasters included hand blasters (blaster pistols) and blaster rifles, as well as differing calibers of blaster emitters, including blaster cannons and blaster banks which could be used as mounted weapons on starships and other vehicles.

A blaster pistol was a common Romulan side arm in 2276. (TOS novel: The Romulan Way)