The storm was closing in, my shield was cracked, and I knew another player was hunting me. Panic started to set in. Then, through the trees, I saw it: a blue glow reflecting off a chest. Inside, I found salvation: the Lock-On Assault Rifle. Chapter 7 Season 1 just got a whole lot more interesting, right?
Epic Games dropped the 39.40 update, and with it came the Lock-On Assault Rifle. It’s not the first lock-on weapon to hit the island, but trust me, it changes the game. Here’s what you need to know to find it and use it to dominate.
Finding the Lock-On Rifle: Luck Favors the Prepared
Think about the last time you were scrambling for gear at the start of a match. Knowing where to find a specific weapon can mean the difference between victory and an early exit. The Lock-On Assault Rifle isn’t tied to a specific boss fight. Instead, you can find it in a few places:
- Loot Chests
- Floor Loot
- Supply Drops
- Vending Machines
The rifle comes in rarities ranging from Rare (Blue) to Legendary (Gold). Keep your eyes peeled; this weapon is worth the search.
Can you buy the Fortnite Lock-On Assault Rifle from Vending Machines?
Yes, and this is often the fastest route to acquiring one, especially if you’re short on time or the circle is closing fast. Check those vending machines; you might just find the rifle you need to turn the tide.
Mastering the Lock-On: Precision over Prayer
Most players treat an assault rifle like a hose, spraying bullets and hoping for the best. The Lock-On Assault Rifle demands a more refined approach. It’s a scalpel, not a sledgehammer. The weapon operates in two distinct phases:

The Targeting Phase: Patience is Rewarded
When you aim down sights (ADS), a special reticle appears. Keep your target inside this zone. As you maintain focus, icons will begin to charge around your target. When all four icons turn red, you’ve achieved a full lock.
The Burst Phase: Deliver the Payload
With the lock confirmed, fire to release a burst of perfectly aimed bullets. You can charge up to four bursts, which prevents the weapon from becoming too dominant. Be aware: if your enemy breaks line of sight or moves beyond the 50-meter range, the lock breaks. This weapon has range, but situational awareness is your real weapon.
Is the Fortnite Lock-On Assault Rifle better than the Deadeye AR?
That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? The Deadeye AR is solid, but the Lock-On Assault Rifle shines when dealing with agile targets. With the return of Shockwave Grenades and the introduction of Wingsuits, players are more mobile than ever. The Lock-On Assault Rifle counters that mobility with pinpoint accuracy.
Ultimately, the Lock-On Assault Rifle offers a unique advantage, especially with the increased mobility this season. Will you master the lock, or will you stick to your old reliable?