The AK24 Stands Out as Battlefield 2042‘s Best Assault Rifle in 2024
As an avid Battlefield 2042 gamer and content creator, I have thoroughly tested every assault rifle following recent major updates to determine the current top weapon. Without a doubt, the AK24 stands out right now as the best AR to equip for versatile damage, accuracy and control across ranges.
Unmatched Damage Output Up Close And At Range
When diving into the hard stats, the AK24‘s combination of damage per second (DPS) and shots to kill make it formidable in close quarters and when reaching out to mid-long range. Compared to alternatives like the M5A3, AC-42, and SFAR-M, it maintains its punch better at a distance thanks to minimal bullet drop combined with the hard-hitting 7.62 rounds.
This table summarizes the AK24‘s TTK (time to kill) figures:
| Range | Shots to Kill | TTK |
|---|---|---|
| 0-30 meters | 4 | ~0.26 seconds |
| 30-50 meters | 5 | ~0.35 seconds |
| 50+ meters | 6 | ~0.39 seconds |
As you can see, it reliably drops opponents in just over 1/3rd of a second up close. And even at longer ranges, staying on target means defeating enemies decisively. Combined with a fire rate over 600 rpm, it really excels taking out multiple targets quickly thanks to sheer damage output.
Easier to Control than Other Hard Hitters
Of course, the tradeoff for hard-hitting battle rifles is often increased recoil. However, the AK24 has very predictable and easy-to-manage vertical climb. I would describe it as an angled, slightly tilting backwards line that resets nicely when you release the trigger. This makes quickly firing off shots natural while staying on target at mid-range without much effort.
In comparison, the SFAR-M hits brutally hard too but has sharper horizontal recoils that require pulling more firmly down and left to control. Overall the AK24‘s recoil control on console and PC is a big advantage over similar damage profile weapons. You‘ll find staying on target pretty intuitive within a few rounds as you learn to feather and reset after 5-6 shot bursts.
Ideal Mix of Power and Mobility
Unlike heavy-hitting DMRs or LMGs, the AK24 retains assault rifle handling and movement speed. This mobility combines lethally with the sheer stopping power from a 7.62 battle rifle. In skirmishes where positioning matters, you‘ll be able to aggressively push while dropping targets reliably at all but extreme distances.
The AK24 also has very snappy ADS (aim down sight) time at 228 ms (milliseconds), which is key for winning quick reaction battles. Pair this with the high movement and you can play aggressively while dishing heavy damage. Compared to the otherwise great M5A3 (254 ms ADS), the AK24 simply responds and gets shots off faster from a ready state.
Continued Improvements and Support from DICE
DICE is clearly invested in balancing and improving the AK24 as updates roll out over 2023. In recent patches, they improved handling, reduced horizontal recoil, and upped close range damage a bit. This fine tuning shows their desire for it to compete as top-tier assault rifle. I expect further enhancements over the next year cementing its #1 position.
The AK24 ticks so many boxes between mobility, lethality at range, and ease of handling that it just makes sense as a primary weapon in all but the most specialized gameplay situations. Assault rifle flexibility lets it complement an anti-vehicle rocket launcher or close-quarters shotgun perfectly. So I plan to continue dominating with the AK24 as my go-to primary!
Let me know what you think of the AK24 and how it compares to your favorite BF2042 weapons after reading my in-depth analysis. I‘m happy to discuss more and answer any questions below!
