Fortnite Chapter 7: Season 2 (Showdown) kicked off one of the biggest loot pool purges in the game's history — only 2 weapons survived from Season 1. The meta has shifted towards fast close-range pressure, shotguns dominate once again and some weapons got major upgrades. Here are the ones that genuinely decide who wins.
🔴 SS Tier — Broken, always pick up
The undisputed no. 1 non-Mythic weapon of Season 2. Single-shot, tight spread, and it reloads automatically even when not in hand. Its body damage is among the highest in the entire loot pool. It dethroned last season's Iron Pump.
The go-to rifle for high-level players. The only non-hitscan weapon in Season 2 — it has bullet drop, but once you master it, you dominate at mid and long range. Many use it in place of the AR slot.
The Mythic version of the Chaos Reloader Shotgun. Same raw output, but much harder to get — you have to kill Dark Voyager in Dark Dominion, which is always contested early-game.
One of the more unique Mythic items of the season — multiple active abilities in a single slot. After beating the Ice King at Frigid Fortress, never leave them lying there.
🟡 S Tier — The foundation of every winning loadout
Buffed at the start of Season 2 — and the difference is immediate. Fast fire rate, high DPS, low recoil. It can track players moving through the air. The easiest AR to use effectively.
Back from Chapter 5 and straight into the top meta. Slower than the CAR, but every shot hits harder. A predictable recoil pattern — ideal for a deliberate playstyle and longer distances.
The hit-scan upgrade in Season 2 took it from average to S-Tier. No bullet travel time — what you aim at, you hit. Dominant in box fights and for mid-range pressure.
Last season's king, now second behind the Chaos Reloader. Still excellent — if you can't find a Chaos Reloader, the Iron Pump is a perfect substitute. Huge headshot damage.
🔵 A Tier — Solid when nothing better is around
Survived from Season 1 and still a legitimate choice. Two alternating barrels — faster than the Iron Pump. Good for players who struggle with precise aim (wider spread).