Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle: Stats, how to use it & more

The Lock On Assault Rifle is one of the most unique weapons to hit Fortnite: Battle Royale. Introduced in the v39.40 update, this rifle isn’t just another Fortnite gun. Unlike traditional assault rifles that depend entirely on recoil control and aim tracking, this weapon uses a lock-on targeting system that allows players to deal consistent damage to moving enemies. Because of this, it plays very differently from standard ARs and rewards patience, positioning, and timing.

This Fortnite guide explains how the Lock On Assault Rifle works, where to find it, its strengths and weaknesses, and how to use it correctly in real matches.

What is the Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle?

The Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle is a medium-range assault weapon designed around a two-step combat system:

• Lock-on targeting
• Guaranteed burst damage

Instead of firing immediately for maximum accuracy, the weapon encourages players to hold their aim on an enemy until the lock-on system fully charges. Once locked, the Lock On Assault Rifle releases a burst that automatically hits the target, even if they move slightly after the lock is completed.

This makes the weapon especially useful against:

• Sprinting enemies
• Players using mobility items
• Targets attempting to escape fights

Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle stats

The Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle appears in Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic, and Legendary rarities. Higher rarities increase damage and DPS but keep the same core mechanics.

At Legendary rarity, the Lock On Assault Rifle reaches its highest efficiency, offering solid DPS while keeping its reliable lock-on burst. It is not designed for heavy structure damage and performs best when focused on player eliminations, not builds.

How does the lock-on mechanic work?

Understanding the lock-on system is critical to using the Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle correctly.

Targeting phase

When aiming down sights:

• A unique reticle appears on screen
• Keep an enemy inside the reticle without losing line of sight
• Lock indicators begin filling around the crosshair
• After four indicators fill, the target is fully locked

The lock will break if:

• The enemy moves behind cover
• The enemy exits the effective range
• You stop aiming down sights

Firing phase

Once locked:

• Press the fire button to release a burst
• The burst guarantees hits on the locked target
• Shots will land even if the enemy strafes or jumps slightly

This makes the Lock On Assault Rifle extremely effective against players who rely on movement rather than cover.

How to get the Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle

The Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle is part of the regular loot pool and can be found through:

• Floor loot
• Chests
• Supply drops
• Vending machines (Gold Bars)

There is currently no Mythic version, and it is not tied to a boss or NPC. Availability depends on the current loot pool of the season, but when active, it is widely obtainable.

Best ways to use the Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle

• The Fortnite Lock On Assault Rifle performs best at medium range, between shotgun and sniper distances. Use it to target enemies rotating between zones, crossing open areas, or retreating from fights.
• Avoid firing too early. Waiting for a full lock-on is essential, as partial locks lower damage consistency and waste ammunition.
• Since the weapon is weak at close range, pair it with a shotgun or SMG. Use the Lock On Assault Rifle to break shields or finish escaping enemies, then switch weapons if opponents push aggressively.