Android 17’s utilization of a firearm is a notable aspect of his character in the Dragon Ball series. This choice of weaponry contrasts with the energy-based attacks predominantly employed by other characters, particularly Saiyans and other Androids. While possessing immense ki control and the ability to generate energy blasts, Android 17 is also frequently depicted using a gun, most visibly during his ranger duties on Monster Island in Dragon Ball Super.
The use of a firearm provides practical advantages within his role as a park ranger. It offers a non-lethal means of deterring poachers and controlling dangerous wildlife without necessarily resorting to lethal energy blasts. The weapon represents a pragmatic approach to maintaining order and protecting the ecosystem, aligning with his conservationist responsibilities. Furthermore, it reflects a grounded perspective on combat, indicating that brute force isn’t always the preferred solution. Historically, firearms have been part of action narratives, offering a sense of realism and potential danger even within a fantastical context.
