Though combat is not the focus of Abject Abyss, you can still find ways of defending yourself in a pinch.
The Shock Pistol is a non-lethal weapon used by security officers, but for Ernest it’s a way to temporarily disable enemies and buy time to escape.
Ammunition is limited, -one capsule is one shot- but it's accurate and has a decent range. Hitting an enemy will root them in place as they squirm violently under the electrical current, the heat causing smoke to rise from sizzling flesh.
If you happen to have several capsules saved you can keep firing to greatly extend the duration of the shock, disorienting and burning the target. It wont stop them, not permanently. But it will give you enough time to run or hide.
It's also important to note that you cannot interact while the pistol is drawn, so it’s best to only bring it out when you really need it, then stow it as you make your escape. Another tool in Ernest’s belt.
Of course the best outcome would be never needing the Shock Pistol at all, but having the option might help you feel a little safer... as long as you still have a capsule left.