The GSP-7 generates a localized tidal gradient — a microscale differential in gravitational field strength across a 15–20 centimeter target zone — using a pair of counter-rotating superconducting mass rings embedded in the weapon's cylindrical body. The gradient is projected as a focused columnar field approximately 3 centimeters in diameter at the point of emission, expanding to roughly 18 centimeters at optimal range. Within this column, the difference in gravitational pull between the near and far edges of the field is sufficient to impose significant shear stress on materials and tissue, stretching and tearing structures along the field axis without any projectile or beam making contact.

The practical effect on unprotected biological targets at full output is severe internal trauma along the field axis — tearing of connective tissue, rupture of fluid-filled structures, and in sustained exposure, fracture of cortical bone. The weapon does not burn, does not leave entry wounds, and produces no visible beam. Forensic examiners encountering GSP-7 casualties without prior knowledge of the weapon frequently misattribute the damage to blunt force or crush injury from environmental sources. This forensic ambiguity is the GSP-7's most valued characteristic in certain professional circles.

TESSERA CORPONATION produced the GSP-7 under a research and development program nominally aimed at materials testing — specifically, evaluating shear resistance in structural composites under variable gravitational loading. The weapons application was, by most accounts within TESSERA, an open secret from the second prototype. Current production is limited, the supply chain is deliberately obscure, and TESSERA officially categorizes the GSP-7 as a 'field gradient analysis instrument' in all public documentation.