Ahem...the ER Beamer does NOT suck.
All/Any gun(s) can be used in a good way.
For example, the red rifle is out of ammo? No fear, use a Lightning Pistol which takes Energy Cells (not a good idea taking EC; just an example)
Or Photon Cannon is out, use ENRANGED RIFLE.
LP, and Enranged are both less damage, but the speed and ammo length is the same.
ER is just a 3 damage gun. It's not like punching a guy with a Saber.