Fortnite Shockwave Hammer Returns Alongside Unvaulted Burst Assault Rifle

TL;DR

  • Burst Assault Rifle returns alongside Shockwave Hammer in Chapter 4 Season 1
  • Available in five rarity tiers with DPS ranging from 122 to 146
  • Excels at medium range but struggles in close-quarters combat
  • Requires strategic weapon pairing with SMG or shotgun for versatility
  • High headshot damage makes it devastating when used at proper distances

The iconic Shockwave Hammer has made its triumphant return to the battlefield, accompanied by another formidable firearm addition to your arsenal.

Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 1 continues to receive overwhelming praise from the community, with many veterans considering it among the most polished battle royale experiences to date. This acclaim stems largely from the diverse selection of innovative equipment introduced this season. The mobility-enhancing Shockwave Hammer stands out as a fan favorite, enabling strategic repositioning and devastating area-of-effect attacks. Following a brief removal due to technical exploits, Epic Games reinstated both the hammer and the unvaulted Burst Assault Rifle on January 10th, restoring complete access to these dynamic combat tools. Here’s your comprehensive breakdown of the returning burst-fire weapon’s mechanics and applications.

The Burst Assault Rifle delivers precisely what its nomenclature suggests: controlled burst-fire sequences that reward disciplined trigger control. This weapon platform maintains exceptional accuracy when players properly pace their shots, making it ideal for methodical engagements. It consumes medium ammunition and is distributed across five distinct rarity classifications: Common (122 DPS), Uncommon (126 DPS), Rare (134 DPS), Epic (142 DPS), and Legendary (146 DPS). Acquisition follows standard weapon distribution patterns—you’ll discover it as ground loot, within various chest types, and occasionally through fishing activities.

Understanding the damage progression between rarities is crucial for inventory management decisions. The 24 DPS differential from Common to Legendary represents a meaningful 19.7% increase in potential output. Each burst typically consists of three-round groupings, with fire rate variations between rarities affecting overall time-to-kill metrics. The weapon’s predictable recoil pattern allows experienced players to consistently land follow-up shots, though bloom becomes increasingly significant during rapid successive bursts.

This firearm truly shines during medium-range skirmishes where its accuracy advantages become most apparent. However, performance noticeably diminishes during close-quarters confrontations and extreme-distance exchanges. When employed within its ideal engagement envelope (approximately 25-75 meters), the rifle’s precision and substantial headshot multiplier can decisively eliminate opponents.

Strategic loadout construction is paramount—always complement your Burst Assault Rifle with close-range specialists like SMGs or shotguns. Being caught without an appropriate secondary when enemies aggressively push your position will prove catastrophic, as missed bursts in confined spaces carry severe consequences. The weapon’s burst delay mechanism creates vulnerable windows where opponents can capitalize on your temporary inability to return fire.

For optimal performance, master the rhythm of firing single bursts while strafing between shots. This technique minimizes bloom accumulation while maintaining target tracking. Against moving targets, practice leading your aim slightly to compensate for projectile travel time, particularly at longer medium-range distances.

The weapon’s headshot damage potential represents its most valuable attribute—properly executed bursts to an opponent’s cranium can dramatically reduce time-to-kill metrics. However, many players undermine their effectiveness through common tactical errors: engaging outside optimal ranges, failing to manage burst timing, and neglecting cover utilization between volleys.

Advanced practitioners should practice peek-and-shoot tactics, exposing themselves only during burst windows before returning to safety. Against construction-focused opponents, the rifle excels at breaking freshly built structures while maintaining pressure on builders. When transitioning between our Weapons Unlock system and considering how different firearms complement various playstyles, the Burst Assault Rifle fits perfectly into methodical, positioning-focused approaches rather than aggressive rush strategies.

Understanding these nuanced applications will significantly enhance your combat effectiveness. For broader strategic context, consult our comprehensive Complete Guide to battlefield dominance. Additionally, pairing this weapon with appropriate class selections from our Class Guide can create synergistic loadouts that capitalize on the rifle’s strengths.

Action Checklist

  • Practice burst timing at 25-75 meter ranges in creative mode
  • Always pair with SMG or shotgun for close-range protection
  • Master strafing between bursts to control bloom accumulation
  • Implement peek-and-shoot tactics during medium-range engagements

No reproduction without permission:SeeYouSoon Game Club » Fortnite Shockwave Hammer Returns Alongside Unvaulted Burst Assault Rifle Master the Burst Assault Rifle in Fortnite: locations, effective ranges, and combat strategies