Importing ME1 character to ME2 question

[fletchlives]

I'm a adept in ME2 but can only use sub machine guns and pistols.  Why can't I use the assault rifle?  Before when I played the game as a sentinel I could use the assault rifle.  Is there a way to change this?

[Fred_vdp]

Your class determines which weapons you can use, which is also explained on the character creation menu. Adepts can only use pistols and SMGs. You can pick a third weapon on the collector ship.

If you don't mind cheating, you could alter your save file to give you more weapon training, although I'm not entirely sure how and if that works.