The final season of post-launch content for Call of Duty Vanguard is finally here. Although Sledgehammer Games missed the mark with its latest offering, the developer is focused on ending the game cycle on a high note. Season 5 contains a wealth of new content including the debut of the EX1 energy rifle.
Featuring an unlimited amount of ammunition, the rifle is arguably the most unique weapon in the entire arsenal. Although there's no need to reload, it can overheat. In addition, you can also improve various elements of the EX1 thanks to the gunsmith.
Before we share the best EX1 Vanguard loadout, check out our other Season 5 guides revealing how to unlock the RA 225 and the Menendez operator.
What is the best EX1 Vanguard loadout?
| Attachment | Name |
|---|---|
| Muzzle | TLL Disk Trim |
| Barrel | PWN Beam Condenser |
| Optic | Slate Reflector |
| Stock | Removed Stock |
| Underbarrel | SMLE Pistol Grip |
| Magazine | Quantum High Voltage Battery |
| Rear Grip | Leather Grip |
| Proficiency | Frenzy |
| Kit | On-Hand |
After some initial testing, we've found a solid attachment combination that's capable of taking down the opposition with three well-placed shots to the head. The additional speed makes navigating the map a breeze too.
- Read More: Vanguard Season 5 patch notes
Best EX1 Vanguard attachments
Although the EX1 features unlimited ammunition, its slightly weak damage output means the semi-automatic rifle falls short in some mid-range engagements. With that said, here's the strongest attachment combination we've found so far:
- Muzzle: TLL Disk Trim
- Barrel: PWN Beam Condenser
- Optic: Slate Reflector
- Stock: Removed Stock
- Underbarrel: SMLE Pistol Grip
- Magazine: Quantum High Voltage Battery
- Rear Grip: Leather Grip
- Proficiency: Frenzy
- Kit: On-Hand
This particular attachment combination improves firepower, speed, and accuracy. Although the ammo capacity does shrink by eight, the improvements in accuracy make it very easy to land shots.
Arguably the highlight of the build is the Beam Condenser barrel that improves overall damage levels, damage output, and headshot damage which allows you to eliminate a target in under three shots.
click to enlargeBest EX1 Vanguard perks and equipment
Once the best EX1 attachments are ready for battle, turn your attention to finding a strong combination of perks and equipment that complement your style of play. Here's what we recommend.
Perks
- Fortified (Perk 1)
- Forward Intel (Perk 2)
- Double Time (Perk 3)
Fortified increases your resistance to any incoming explosives while Forward Intel reveals the spawn points of the opposition. For objective modes such as Domination, this is a great tool to use in order to trap them into specific areas of the map.
Last and by no means least is Double Time. By doubling the length of Tactical Sprint, you can traverse the map with the EX1 in hand as fast as possible.
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Equipment
- Frag Grenade (Lethal)
- Stun Grenade (Tactical)
It's difficult to go wrong with the trusty combination of a frag and stun grenade. Use the frag to deal some extra damage along with the stun which slows enemy movements just enough for you to fry them with the EX1.
Is the EX1 good in Vanguard?
As the sole energy rifle in Vanguard, we expect the EX1 to have some kind of impact on the existing meta. The power of the rifle is currently unknown but it's likely many will use it in the early stages of Season 5.
Once we've spent some time getting to grips with it, we will share our final verdict here.
That's all there is to know about the best EX1 Vanguard loadout. For more, check out our Warzone page for all the latest news, leaks, and guides on Call of Duty's battle royale.
For more articles like this, take a look at our Guides and Call of Duty: Vanguard page.