Are Pistols Any Good in Fortnite? A Deep Dive
Yes, pistols are absolutely viable in Fortnite, and in the right hands, they can be incredibly effective. While they might not have the raw power of a shotgun or the spraying capability of an SMG, pistols offer a unique blend of accuracy, rapid-fire rate, and versatility that makes them a force to be reckoned with. They are often overlooked, but skilled players know that a well-placed pistol shot can be devastating. In short, dismissing pistols is a mistake; they are a crucial component of a balanced loadout and an excellent starting weapon.
Why Pistols are Underrated in Fortnite
Pistols often get a bad rap, especially when compared to more popular weapon choices. However, they possess several key advantages that make them more than just a backup option. Let’s delve deeper into the strengths that make pistols surprisingly good in Fortnite:
Accuracy and Damage
One of the biggest advantages pistols have over SMGs is their superior accuracy. The damage drop-off is less, meaning that pistol shots maintain their effectiveness over a longer range. Pistols often have better first-shot accuracy, making them ideal for landing those initial critical hits. Unlike the spray-and-pray nature of SMGs, pistols reward precise aiming. Additionally, the damage per shot from a pistol is typically higher than that of an SMG, giving you more “bang for your buck” per trigger pull.
Fire Rate and DPS
While they might not have the sustained fire rate of an SMG, many pistols in Fortnite have a surprisingly high rate of fire. This is especially true for the Sidearm Pistol, which, with a quick trigger finger, can achieve a DPS (damage per second) that rivals some fully automatic weapons. Landing headshots with pistols is exceptionally effective due to their high headshot multiplier, which significantly boosts their damage output. This combination of a high fire rate and a good headshot multiplier can quickly melt through an opponent’s shields and health.
Versatility and Availability
Pistols are incredibly versatile and adaptable to various combat situations. They excel in medium to close-range engagements, offering a reliable alternative to shotguns when you need consistent, accurate damage. Pistols are also one of the most readily available weapons in the game. You will find them in chests, on the floor, and in virtually every location making them an easy weapon to pick up and be immediately effective with. This availability means you’re more likely to find one at the start of a match, giving you a valuable advantage in the early game.
Reality Augments and Upgrades
Like all weapons in Fortnite, pistols can be further enhanced through Reality Augments and upgrades. Certain augments specifically boost pistol performance, increasing their damage or fire rate. Combined with higher-rarity pistols, these upgrades can transform an ordinary sidearm into a formidable weapon. Don’t underestimate the power of a Legendary pistol with stacked augments.
Specific Pistol Types in Fortnite
Fortnite features different types of pistols, each with its unique characteristics:
The Sidearm Pistol
The Sidearm Pistol is a fast-firing semi-automatic weapon. Its strength is in the speed at which you can click the fire button. It rewards players with good aim and the ability to click quickly. With good use, the DPS can be on par with full auto weapons. This makes the Sidearm Pistol one of the most versatile weapons in the entire game.
The Suppressed Pistol
The Suppressed Pistol is a stealthy option that benefits from a lower noise output, making it harder to detect when firing. This weapon is very accurate and can be deadly in the right hands.
Machine Pistol (The Exception)
The Machine Pistol, which has had many iterations throughout Fortnite’s lifespan, is often criticized for its low damage and heavy recoil. While it is classified as a pistol, it does not share the advantages of other pistols and is generally considered one of the weakest weapons in the game.
Pistols vs. Other Weapon Classes
Understanding how pistols stack up against other weapon classes is crucial to determining their place in a loadout.
Pistols vs. SMGs
While SMGs boast a higher rate of fire and are excellent at spraying at close range, they often lack the precision and range of pistols. Pistols generally have better damage per shot, first-shot accuracy, and less damage drop-off at a distance compared to SMGs. This makes pistols a better option for players who prefer controlled bursts over sustained spraying.
Pistols vs. Shotguns
Shotguns are supreme in very close-range combat due to their high damage output. However, they suffer from significant falloff over longer ranges and have a slower rate of fire. Pistols offer a reliable alternative to shotguns in medium to close-range engagements with their ability to deal consistent, accurate damage.
Pistols vs. Assault Rifles
Assault Rifles (ARs) are the most versatile weapons, excelling at medium to long-range engagements. Pistols, on the other hand, are more tailored for close-quarters combat or to pick off players quickly in medium-range. ARs offer the best blend of fire rate, accuracy, and range. However, if you’re in close quarters, a well-placed pistol shot can be just as effective.
Conclusion
Pistols are definitely not trash in Fortnite. They are underrated and highly effective weapons that deserve a place in every player’s arsenal. Their accuracy, fire rate, and versatility make them a force to be reckoned with. With a bit of practice and the right Reality Augments and upgrades, you can turn a seemingly simple pistol into a game-winning weapon. So next time you find one, give it a try. You might be surprised by just how effective they can be.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pistols in Fortnite
1. What is the best pistol in Fortnite?
The Sidearm Pistol is often considered the best due to its high damage per second (DPS) when fired rapidly. A fully upgraded legendary Sidearm can be incredibly deadly, especially with headshots. The Suppressed Pistol is also an excellent choice for stealthy players.
2. Is a pistol a good starting weapon in Fortnite?
Yes, pistols are excellent starting weapons due to their widespread availability and effectiveness in early-game engagements. They provide a reliable way to deal damage and secure early eliminations.
3. Are pistols better than SMGs in Fortnite?
In terms of accuracy and damage per shot, pistols are generally better than SMGs. However, SMGs have a higher fire rate, making them ideal for spraying. The better choice depends on your playstyle and the situation.
4. Which pistol has the highest DPS in Fortnite?
The Sidearm Pistol, when fired at its maximum speed, can achieve the highest DPS among pistols due to its fast rate of fire.
5. Do headshots with pistols do more damage in Fortnite?
Yes, absolutely. Pistols have a high headshot multiplier, meaning that landing headshots significantly boosts their damage output.
6. What are the best Reality Augments for pistols in Fortnite?
Augments that increase damage, fire rate, or reload speed are particularly beneficial for pistols. Experiment with different augments to see what works best for your playstyle.
7. Are legendary pistols worth using in Fortnite?
Yes, legendary pistols are absolutely worth using. They have higher damage and better stats than lower-rarity pistols, making them a very viable option.
8. Are pistols effective in late-game situations in Fortnite?
While they might not be the primary choice in late-game engagements, pistols can still be effective as secondary weapons or for finishing off downed opponents.
9. How should I use pistols in Fortnite?
Use pistols for accurate, controlled shots at medium to close range. Aim for headshots, and utilize their quick fire rate to overwhelm opponents.
10. Should I carry a pistol if I already have a shotgun?
Yes, it’s often a good idea to carry a pistol as a backup weapon for medium-range engagements or to follow up on shotgun shots.
11. What is the worst pistol in Fortnite?
The Machine Pistol is often cited as the weakest pistol due to its low damage and heavy recoil. It is generally not considered a good choice of weapon.
12. How does rarity affect pistols in Fortnite?
Higher rarity pistols have better damage, accuracy, and fire rate than lower rarity versions. Always aim for higher-rarity versions when possible.
13. Can pistols compete with assault rifles in Fortnite?
While assault rifles are more versatile, pistols are often more effective in close-quarters combat. Pistols can definitely compete with assault rifles when used within their ideal range.
14. Are pistols good for aggressive play in Fortnite?
Yes, pistols can be good for aggressive play. The Sidearm Pistol in particular can melt shields and health very quickly, making them great for rushing enemies.
15. Are there any other weapons similar to a pistol in Fortnite?
The Scoped Burst SMG can provide a similar level of precision and effectiveness with controlled bursts, but SMG’s will not have as much damage per bullet. However, pistols still maintain unique advantages in fire rate and accuracy, making them a unique and valuable weapon.