Apex legends weapons - a complete guide

"Apex Legends" is a fast-paced battle royale that combines fluid movement, strategic gameplay, and a diverse arsenal of weapons. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned competitor, understanding weapon mechanics is crucial to gaining an edge in the Outlands. For a comprehensive, up-to-date listing of all available guns and their stats, check out the official Apex Legends Weapons directory.

Weapon Categories

Apex Legends features several weapon classes, each optimized for different combat scenarios. These categories include assault rifles, submachine guns (SMGs), light machine guns (LMGs), sniper rifles, marksman rifles, shotguns, and pistols.

Assault Rifles

Assault rifles offer balanced performance between range, accuracy, and damage. Ideal for mid-range engagements, they form the backbone of most players' loadouts.

  1. R-301 Carbine: Highly versatile with minimal recoil. Effective at both short and medium ranges.
  2. Nemesis Burst AR: A burst-fire energy weapon that increases its fire rate the longer you hold the trigger.
  3. Hemlok: Burst fire or single-shot rifle that rewards accuracy and precision.

Submachine Guns (SMGs)

SMGs excel in close-quarter battles thanks to their high fire rate and mobility. They're perfect for aggressive playstyles and tight indoor skirmishes.

  1. R-99: One of the fastest firing guns in the game. Requires steady aim due to high recoil.
  2. Volt SMG: An energy SMG with smooth handling and consistent damage.
  3. CAR SMG: Can use both light and heavy ammo, making it extremely versatile.

Light Machine Guns (LMGs)

LMGs offer high magazine capacity and consistent damage output, making them suitable for sustained battles and suppression.

  1. Devotion: Energy LMG with a ramp-up fire rate. It becomes more dangerous the longer you fire.
  2. Rampage: Fires slowly but with high power. Can be energized with a Thermite Grenade to boost fire rate.
  3. L-Star EMG: Energy-based LMG with no reloads but prone to overheating.

Sniper and Marksman Rifles

Designed for long-range combat, sniper and marksman rifles require good aim but reward high-damage hits.

  1. Kraber .50-Cal: A care package exclusive that deals devastating damage - often a one-shot kill.
  2. Longbow DMR: Semi-automatic with high accuracy, perfect for picking off enemies at distance.
  3. Sentinel: A bolt-action sniper that can be charged with Shield Cells for more damage.

Shotguns

Shotguns dominate in extremely close range, often turning the tide in indoor fights and final circles.

  1. Peacekeeper: A lever-action shotgun with a tight spread when ADSing, ideal for skilled players.
  2. Mastiff: Fires a horizontal spread, making it effective in head-on encounters.
  3. EVA-8 Auto: Fully automatic and easy to use with a consistent fire rate.

Pistols and Sidearms

Useful as backup weapons, pistols can be surprisingly effective in the right hands, especially early game.

  1. Wingman: Known for high headshot damage. Great for confident shooters.
  2. P2020: A basic semi-auto pistol, often found early in the match. Can be improved with the Hammerpoint Rounds hop-up.
  3. RE-45 Auto: Fully automatic and easily controllable, useful when no better options are available.

Care Package and Mythic Weapons

Weapons in the care package or crafting rotation are typically more powerful and come fully equipped. These include guns like the Kraber, Bocek Bow, and Volt SMG, depending on the current season's configuration. These weapons are rare but game-changing when acquired.

Importance of Attachments

Attachments significantly enhance weapon performance. Optics affect aiming precision, while barrel stabilizers reduce recoil. Magazines increase capacity and reload speed, and stocks improve handling. Choosing the right combination complements your playstyle and can turn a standard gun into a lethal tool.

Adapting to the Meta

The Apex Legends meta evolves with each season. Weapon balancing, new additions, and vaulting decisions by the developers keep the gameplay fresh. Staying updated with patch notes and practicing with different guns helps adapt to the changing landscape.

Conclusion

Mastery of weapons in Apex Legends is just as important as movement and positioning. Whether you prefer sniping from afar, rushing buildings with an SMG, or holding down lanes with an LMG, knowing how each weapon class functions will elevate your gameplay. Don’t forget to consult the Apex Legends Weapons page regularly for in-depth stats and updates.