This new Fortnite Chapter has brought so many new changes to the game. One of the biggest being the new additions to the arsenal of weapons that the game has to offer. Some of these weapons are better than others, and when hopping into a new match, it’s important to keep in mind what weapons are better than others. Here we are going to go over some of the best weapons this new Fortnite season, and why you may want to clear out a spot in your loadout for them!

Honorable Mention: DMR and Assault Rifle

Before we get into the new weapons to come out this season, I just want to talk about the DMR and Assault Rifle as some honorable mentions. While not a new weapon, the DMR is such a reliable long-range option for any loadout that needs a bit of range to it. I felt like I had to throw it on here. The rifle also hits like a truck when landing consecutive shots, especially to the head. So overall, just know that the DMR is extremely deadly in the right hands, and it is always worth considering when given the option of taking one.

The Assault Rifle, while “technically” new, takes the look of the coveted SCAR from back in the day, now spawning in all rarities. The rifle for the most part acts the same as the old version and is still a solid option for a mid to long-range weapon. The only reason I am not including it on the main list is that it is just too similar to its predecessor to count it as a new weapon introduced in this Chapter. So, while tried and true as it always has been, the Assault Rifle falls just short of making the list.

1. Thunder Shotgun

Starting things off on our list is going to be the Thunder Shotgun. This new shotgun is lethal when it’s used correctly. Being slightly more accurate than the new Maven Auto Shotgun, while dealing way more damage, this gun is a must in anyone’s loadout that may need a shotgun. I would even go as far as to say that I would take a regular Common Thunder Shotgun over a Rare Maven Auto Shotgun. That’s how strong it is. One well-placed shot from this followed up with an SMG, Pistol, or Rifle can send people packing their bags to the next game. One thing to keep in mind is that the clip can run low quickly, because each shot uses two shotgun shells, but this isn’t too much of an issue for players if they get used to the weapon after a few matches.

2. Tactical Assault Rifle

Next up on the list is going to be the Tactical Assault Rifle that was introduced in this Chapter through the new Augment system. This rifle is an absolute laser and can shred shields and health in a matter of seconds on an unsuspecting enemy. Pairing the DPS output that this rifle has with a Shotgun Shot or a Rocket is an insanely strong combo. Not to mention that it starts as a Rare weapon and can be upgraded to Epic and Legendary at workbenches, making it even stronger. Another thing to keep in mind is that a very strong Combat Shotgun comes with the Augment the Tactical Assault Rifle is obtained through, which is a huge plus. This weapon uses Light Ammo and not Medium, so be careful when using this as well as an SMG in your loadout. Overall, the Tactical Assault Rifle is an extremely good weapon at mid-to-close range and should always be considered when given the option as an Augment.

3. Shockwave Hammer

Where the Shockwave hammer shines is its utility as a movement option. The right-click of the hammer slams it on the ground, launching the player forward, giving them immunity to fall damage. You can left-click before landing to perform a seismic slam on the ground, dealing massive damage and destroying buildings. You get four charges of this bounce before it goes on a cooldown. This item is such a good option for people to take in their loadouts because it’s the main easily accessible movement item that the game currently has. Make sure you are mainly using this for movement and not relying on attacking with it on the ground, the windup is pretty slow, and it leaves you very vulnerable to other players’ attacks. The Shockwave Hammer is a very useful item to have in this Chapter, and if you run into one, taking it with you can seriously help you add some mobility to your loadout.

4. Tactical Pistol

Some might be shocked to see a pistol on this list, but it’s for good reason. If you are not aware, the new Tactical Pistol is actually quite the force to be reckoned with. This close-range sidearm packs a solid punch and can be quite serviceable in midrange fights if it comes down to it. The DPS this gun has is quite surprising since unlike some pistols, it’s fully automatic. One bonus this has for it is the two Augments that increase the magazine size of pistols and increase the reload speed of weapons that use Light Ammo, which can make this thing even more threatening in the right hands. With solid accuracy, fire rate, and damage, the Tactical Pistol is a great pick for people who are looking for a side-arm weapon that can be used in close-range skirmishes or follow up a shotgun blast.

5. Ex-Caliber Rifle

Rounding out the list is none other than the new Ex-Caliber Rifle, which might be one of the most interesting weapons the game has introduced. The rifle has three shots, using shotgun shells as ammo and, when fired, the gun shoots a powerful long-range bolt in the shape of a sword, dealing damage to players or structures hit, then after a short delay, explodes dealing even more damage. This gun is absolutely devastating in the right hands and there are several different weapon combos to pull off with this new weapon. One strong thing about this gun is despite using shotgun ammo, it’s classified as a marksman weapon, which means it benefits from the Bloodhound Augmentation. Overall, this new unique gun is very good when used correctly and can fit into any loadout easily.

Conclusion

This time around there were a lot of unique and powerful weapons introduced into the new Fortnite Chapter. It can be difficult finding weapons in a new season or Chapter when there are so many new choices to pick from. Knowing which new weapons are a step above the rest helps with creating a strong inventory through the course of the game. Hopefully, this list helps you craft a powerful new loadout that you can use to get your next Victory Royale!