As the galaxy was growing more and more hostile with the demise of the Old Republic and diplomats could no longer count on Jedi to keep them safe, it was discovered that a weapon was needed that required minimal training to use. Drearian Defense Conglomerate stepped in to fill this void with their Defender pistol. Elegant enough to compliment any nobleman's attire, the Defender became a popular feature amongst the high society of the galaxy.

The use of galven rings and focusing coils permit the Defender to operate with unparalleled efficiency, although the bolts do tend to be somewhat compact. DDC's high-end marketing strategy contributed to the weapon becoming a sidearm of choice for aristocratic dueling, as honor can be satisfied by wounding an opponent rather than killing them outright. Despite the moderate intensity, the Defender is still effective as a last-ditch defense in the event that a disguised assassin would get past the wielder's bodyguards.