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M4 vs. TAQ-56: Which Assault Rifle Reigns Supreme in Modern Warfare?

Deciding between the M4 and the TAQ-56 is a crucial choice for any Call of Duty player, especially in Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone. Both assault rifles boast impressive stats and are frequently found at the top of tier lists. However, the answer to which is “better” isn’t straightforward, as it largely depends on your playstyle, preferred game mode, and the current meta.

The Direct Answer: A Matter of Preference and Context

In a nutshell, there’s no universally “better” weapon. The TAQ-56 often takes the spotlight for its high damage output, accuracy, and relatively low recoil, making it a favorite among professional players in competitive modes. It shines particularly in mid-range engagements. However, the M4 isn’t far behind. It boasts a very easy to control recoil, exceptional fire rate, and versatile build options making it a fantastic weapon for both medium to close ranges. The M4’s consistent performance, even with base attachments, gives it an edge in some situations.

Ultimately, the “better” rifle is the one that best suits your individual playstyle. The TAQ-56 rewards accuracy and controlled bursts at mid-range, while the M4’s ease of use allows for more aggressive play.

Diving Deeper: Strengths and Weaknesses

The TAQ-56: Power and Precision

The TAQ-56, based on the real-life FN SCAR-L, is known for its potent damage and solid accuracy. It’s a favorite of many players, including Call of Duty League pros, because of its ability to consistently land shots.

Strengths:
- High Damage Output: The TAQ-56 delivers significant damage, often requiring fewer shots to eliminate enemies.
- Accuracy: It is very accurate, allowing players to land consistent shots at mid-range.
- Low Recoil (with proper attachments): With the right attachments, the TAQ-56 exhibits surprisingly manageable recoil, making it deadly in the hands of a skilled player.
- Favored by Pros: Its status as the go-to AR for the pro scene speaks volumes about its overall effectiveness.
Weaknesses:
- Handling and Stability: Out of the box, it can feel slightly bulky, requiring adjustments for better mobility and handling.
- Heavier Feel: Compared to the M4, it can feel heavier and less agile, especially on smaller maps.

The M4: Consistency and Versatility

The M4, a popular real-life weapon used widely, excels in its overall consistency and adaptability. It is known for its reliability, user-friendly recoil, and versatile customization options.

Strengths:
- High Fire Rate: The M4 boasts a fast fire rate, making it forgiving and deadly at close to mid-range encounters.
- Ease of Control: With its incredibly manageable recoil, the M4 is a good choice for both new and seasoned players.
- Versatile: The M4 can be effectively customized with a wide range of attachments, allowing it to be tailored to different playstyles and game modes.
- Reliable Performance: With no buffs or nerfs, the M4 consistently performs well across the board.
Weaknesses:
- Lower Damage (Compared to TAQ-56): It may take slightly more shots to eliminate an enemy compared to the TAQ-56
- Less “Meta” (Currently): While it is incredibly powerful, it may not always be considered as “meta” as the TAQ-56, which is the preferred choice in professional gameplay.

Game Mode and Map Considerations

The “best” gun choice can also depend on the game mode you are playing.

Multiplayer: On smaller maps and in fast-paced game modes, the M4’s agility and fire rate can be advantageous.
Warzone: In larger open areas, the TAQ-56’s range and damage output can make it a better option for long-range engagements.
Ranked Play: In competitive modes, the TAQ-56 is often the preferred choice due to its high damage and accuracy, although M4 is often banned due to being overly used.

Attachment Strategies

The right attachments can further enhance the strengths of either weapon.

TAQ-56 Attachments

Barrel: 17.5″ Tundra Pro (often required in professional matches).
Muzzle: Harbinger D20 (for range, bullet velocity, and recoil control).
Ammunition: 5.56 High Velocity (for increased range).

M4 Attachments

Muzzle: Echoless-80 (for sound suppression and recoil control).
Barrel: Hightower 20″ Barrel (for range and recoil control).
Ammunition: 5.56 High Velocity (for increased range).
Magazine: 60 Round Mag (for increased ammo capacity).

The Verdict

Both the M4 and the TAQ-56 are formidable weapons in Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone. The TAQ-56 excels with its raw damage output and accuracy at range, often taking center stage in professional settings. The M4, meanwhile, is incredibly easy to use, and has a reliable high fire rate, and is highly customizable for versatile situations, making it ideal for aggressive play. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific playstyle and the demands of the game mode you are playing. Experiment with both rifles and their respective attachments to discover what works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the TAQ-56 the best AR in Modern Warfare 2?

While the TAQ-56 is considered one of the best assault rifles in Modern Warfare 2, it’s not universally superior. Its high damage and accuracy make it a favorite, especially in competitive play, but the M4 is still a viable contender.

2. Why is the TAQ-56 so popular among pro players?

Pro players favor the TAQ-56 primarily for its high damage, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it a reliable choice in competitive matches.

3. Is the M4 banned in ranked play?

Yes, the M4 is often banned in ranked play because it can disrupt the weapon meta by causing many players to use the same weapon due to its balanced and easy to use stats.

4. Did the TAQ-56 get nerfed?

Yes, the TAQ-56 has been nerfed, with reductions in headshot damage, meaning players may need to adjust their loadouts.

5. Is the TAQ-V a better option than the TAQ-56?

No, the TAQ-V is generally considered less impressive than the TAQ-56 in MW2 multiplayer. It is heavier and slower, making it less ideal for the fast pace of small maps.

6. What is the real-life counterpart of the TAQ-56?

The TAQ-56 is based on the FN SCAR-L (Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle), a well-known Belgian rifle.

7. Is the M4 a real gun?

Yes, the M4 carbine is a real 5.56mm NATO, gas-operated, magazine-fed carbine widely used by military and law enforcement forces.

8. Why do video games use fake gun names?

After a 2013 court ruling involving Electronic Arts and the Medal of Honor series, video game companies started moving away from licensing deals with gun manufacturers. This decision avoids costs and potential legal issues.

9. What is the best muzzle for the TAQ-56?

The Harbinger D20 silencer is highly recommended for the TAQ-56 as it increases range, bullet velocity, and smooths the weapon’s recoil.

10. What is the best M4 build?

A strong M4 build includes the Echoless-80 muzzle, the FSS OLE-V Laser, Slimline Pro optic, FTAC Ripper underbarrel, and a 60 Round Mag.

11. Does the TAQ-56 have high bullet velocity?

Yes, the TAQ-56 can achieve high bullet velocity, especially when paired with High Velocity rounds.

12. What is the best ammunition for the M4?

The 5.56 High Velocity ammunition is recommended for the M4 to increase its range and overall effectiveness.

13. How much damage does the TAQ-56 do?

The TAQ-56 is reported to do 37 damage to the body, making it a three-shot kill weapon.

14. Which is better TAQ-56 or ISO Hemlock?

The ISO Hemlock is considered by many to be better than the TAQ-56 due to its easy to control recoil, but the 45 round mag can be a detriment.

15. Is the TAQ-56 a battle rifle?

No, the TAQ-56 is classified as an assault rifle, although with specific attachments and builds, it can feel quite powerful.

What’s better M4 or Taq 56?