Instead, the blade channels the build up psychic energy from its user, which then affects the sword's output of plasma energy when swung. The Cypher can't generate plasma energy on its own, and if used by a normal or lesser person, it'd act like a common sword. The Cypher of the "reborn" Hiryu has gained the ability to perform charged slashes, the amount of plasma it can be infused with granting the sword a tremendous offensive power. The modern Cypher model works much different from the original model in how it uses plasma. This mode produces no sound during flight, making it perfect for surprise sneak attacks. Activating this option makes two curved prongs to appear on the sides of the edge, and allow the Cypher to return to the owner's hands once thrown, much like a boomerang would. The Cypher can also be transformed into a throwing weapon effective for long range attacks. The effective range of the plasma blade can also be extended for a short period of time. The plasma energy can also be charged up and dispersed in different ways: it can be concentrated into a plasma projectile, a technique known as Plasma Arrow, or released in the form of plasma waves that home in on nearby enemies. Its cutting power is such that it is said to be able to go through ceramic armor as if it were simple wooden boards and it can effortlessly slash through large boulders and thick concrete walls. Its main use is to generate a blade of accelerated high-voltage plasma particles, capable of cutting through any material. The Cypher can generate plasma energy and use it in a number of ways. Hiryu has also been known to carry his Cypher directly on hand, concealing it with a dark cloth. When not in use, the Cypher is mounted behind its user through a "mount mechanism" located on the back side of the agent's loose-fitting metallic belt, ready to be picked at a moment's notice.
It is, however, said this may also depend on the strength of the user's emotions when using it. The amount of energy emitted is controlled according to how much pressure is applied on the grip, as well as by the level of conductivity. The Cypher emits plasma through the use of a small warhead-type cartridge known as a Bullet ( ブリット), which is placed in a small chamber revealed by pulling the Cypher's handle outwards. While a very powerful weapon in itself, its difficulty to properly handle it is cited as its main drawback. The current can be adjusted and reduced, however, with the lowest level still being strong enough to knock out crocodiles and temporarily paralyze a person. The raw electric current's voltage is powerful enough to instantly kill common soldiers and cause second-degree burns (plus burning most of the hair) to Aaron, a terrorist soldier almost thrice Hiryu's height. Activating this energy generates a large amount of high-voltage electricity, making it a dangerous weapon to use near bodies of water. The Cypher employs plasma energy as its main source of power, which surrounds the weapon when in use. It is the favored weapon of Hiryu, and he's become known as an expert on its use, being said that no one can surpass him on its mastery. This weapon is only issued to those agents who reach the elite Special A-Class, and it's said very few members of the group are actually able to properly handle it. Because of the speed at which the blade travels, it gives off a high pitched sound whenever it is swung. The weapon makes use of plasma energy, releasing it from an opening located on the tip of the edge, in order to greatly enhance its cutting power. It looks mostly like a broadsword in shape and size, but it's hilt is similar to a tonfa, having a short handle perpendicular to the main grip. The Cypher, also known as the Light Sword Cypher ( 光剣サイファー), is a highly advanced melee weapon employed by the Striders. The Cypher ( サイファー, alternatively translated as Cipher or Sypher ) is the iconic weapon of the Strider franchise, appearing on all its different incarnations, and serving as Hiryu's signature weapon.