Marathon – Best Weapons Tier List

Marathon features a large arsenal of weapons across several categories, such as assault rifles, SMGs, sniper rifles, precision rifles, shotguns, railguns, and pistols. Each weapon uses a specific ammo type and offers different strengths depending on range, recoil, and firing mode.

You can carry multiple weapons during a raid and switch between them depending on the combat situation. Most weapons also support attachments like magazines, optics, and barrels that modify handling, stability, or utility rather than raw damage. Ammo in Marathon is divided into several categories, such as Light Rounds, Heavy Rounds, MIPS rounds, Volt Batteries, and Volt Cells.

1. Best Weapons Tier List

Below is a detailed Marathon weapons tier list based on overall performance in both PvP and PvE, reliability in raids, damage potential, and versatility across different combat ranges. This tier list focuses on both PvP and PvE encounters and the best way to counter both is using assault rifles like M77, which packs both speed and damage.

2. S-Tier

Weapons in S-Tier are considered the strongest and most reliable choices in Marathon. They offer excellent damage output, strong accuracy, and versatility across different combat situations.

2.1. Overrun AR

Overrun AR

The Overrun AR is a fully automatic assault rifle that uses Light Rounds and thrives in aggressive engagements, offering reliable damage and manageable recoil across a variety of combat situations. Its strengths become most apparent in the following scenarios:

• Push aggressively: Apply constant pressure on enemies during close- to mid-range fights where sustained automatic fire can overwhelm opponents.
• Sustain fire easily: Light ammo is widely available, making it easier to maintain prolonged firefights without quickly running dry.
• Versatile for rotations: Balanced recoil keeps the weapon effective in tight corridors while remaining stable enough for engagements in more open spaces.
• Beginner-friendly choice: Smooth handling allows players to focus on positioning and aim rather than managing heavy recoil patterns.
• Optimal scenarios: Performs best when clearing rooms, holding choke points, or contesting objectives where consistent pressure is required.

The Overrun AR shines in fights where you need constant pressure and reliable damage output.

2.2. M77 Assault Rifle

M77 assault rifle

The M77 Assault Rifle is a balanced, fully automatic ballistic rifle with reliable handling and a built-in 1.2× flip scope. Solid damage and predictable recoil allow it to perform consistently across a wide range of encounters. The weapon is most effective in the following situations:

• Control mid-range fights: Use the built-in scope to land accurate shots at medium distances without relying on additional optics.
• Leverage consistent damage: Higher per-shot impact keeps it effective against both AI enemies and opposing players.
• Manage sustained fire: Predictable recoil helps maintain accuracy during longer bursts in extended fights.
• Run it as a flexible primary: Performs reliably in mixed scenarios, from clearing PvE encounters to engaging other squads.
• Focus on balanced engagements: Best suited for players looking for a dependable all-round rifle that remains effective in corridors and open areas alike

2.3. Hardline PR

Hardline PR

The Hardline PR is a semi-automatic precision rifle built around controlled, accurate shots at medium to long range. Strong single-shot damage and fast target acquisition make it a reliable option for players who prefer disciplined engagements. It performs best in the following situations:

• Take advantage of long sightlines: Use the rifle to eliminate enemies at range before they can close the distance.
• Run it as a secondary option: Pair it with an automatic primary and swap when precise, high-damage shots are needed.
• Apply pressure from distance: Use controlled shots to track enemy movement and force opponents to stay in cover.
• Leverage quick ADS speed: Fast aim-down-sights helps react quickly to mid-range threats during rotations or defensive holds.
• Prioritize positional fights: The rifle excels when holding choke points, watching overwatch angles, or finishing off retreating targets from cover.

2.4. WSTR Combat Shotgun

WSTR Combat Shotgun

The WSTR Combat Shotgun is a double-barrel ballistic shotgun built for devastating close-range damage. Its burst potential makes it a dangerous option in tight spaces where fights are decided in seconds. The weapon is most effective in the following situations:

• Control close-quarters fights: Tight corridors, interiors, and confined spaces allow the pellet spread to land consistently for maximum impact.
• Capitalize on burst damage: The double-barrel blast can eliminate targets quickly, making it especially effective for ambushes and room clears.
• Manage shot timing carefully: With only two shells before reloading, accuracy and positioning matter to avoid being exposed after a missed shot.
• Combine with mobility: Quick movement and corner control help create opportunities to close distance and fire at point-blank range.
• Focus on confined engagements: The shotgun performs best during surprise pushes, choke-point defense, or finishing enemies in close PvE and PvP encounters.

2.5. Stryder M1T

Stryder M1T

The Stryder M1T is a semi-automatic precision rifle built for controlled, accurate shots at mid- to long-range. Strong single-shot precision and a built-in optic make it effective in disciplined engagements where positioning and timing matter. The weapon performs best in the following situations:

• Control mid- to long-range fights: Use sightlines in open areas or long corridors to eliminate enemies before they close the distance.
• Prioritize controlled shots: The semi-automatic design rewards patience and accuracy rather than rapid firing.
• Leverage the built-in optic: The 1.4× scope helps maintain stable aim and improves target tracking for consistent hits.
• Make every round count: With a 12-round magazine, focus on landing precise shots on high-value targets.
• Support positional play: The rifle excels from overwatch positions, while holding choke points, or when softening enemies before teammates engage.

2.6. M1T

M1T

The M1T is a semi-automatic precision rifle built for controlled, accurate shots at mid- to long-range engagements. The weapon performs best in the following situations:

• Precision over volume: Use its single-shot mechanism to land accurate hits instead of spamming fire — every shot counts.
• Mid- to long-range effectiveness: Strong ADS accuracy and built-in scope make it ideal for targeting enemies from a safe distance.
• Ammo management is key: With a 3.4-second reload, avoid missing shots; plan each engagement and reload safely behind cover.
• Critical hits pay off: Aim for headshots or weak points to maximize damage output, making this rifle deadly in skilled hands.
• Attachment benefits: Equip improved barrels, extended magazines, or handling mods to further enhance accuracy and control.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for overwatch positions, picking off exposed targets, or supporting teammates in open and mid-range combat zones.

2.7. Ares RG

Ares RG

The Ares RG is a railgun that fires magnetically accelerated Volt Cells, designed for high-damage long-range engagements. Ares RG is great for long range, and performs best in following scenarios: 

• Long-distance dominance: Use its 2.5× scope to engage enemies across open fields, rooftops, or map chokepoints where accuracy matters.
• Charge before firing: Hold the trigger to fully charge each shot — rushed shots waste ammo and reduce damage.
• Precision is key: With only 4 shots per magazine and a slow fire rate, every shot must count; prioritize high-value or exposed targets.
• Volt Cell power: Extremely high damage makes it effective for eliminating heavily armored enemies or bosses in PvE.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for overwatch, sniping from elevated positions, or picking off distant players before they can close the gap.
• Support role: Pair with a faster-firing secondary for close-range encounters, since the Ares RG excels only at long range.

2.8. Bully SMG

Bully SMG

The Bully SMG is a fully automatic submachine gun using Heavy Rounds, built for aggressive close-range engagements. It is available as a sponsored kit from MIDA and is great for scenarios like:

• Close-quarters dominance: Excel in tight corridors, building interiors, and urban areas where high fire rate and damage per shot overwhelm enemies quickly.
• Spray-and-pressure: Fully automatic fire allows you to apply constant pressure — perfect for rushing or clearing rooms.
• Recoil management matters: Sustained fire requires good control or magazine upgrades to maintain accuracy during longer fights.
• High-damage bursts: Use short, controlled bursts on multiple targets to maximize efficiency while conserving ammo.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for flanking, indoor PvP, or fast-paced urban skirmishes where hitting multiple targets quickly can turn engagements in your favor.
• Pair with mobility: Combining fast movement with the Bully SMG lets you dominate close-range fights without giving enemies time to react.

3. A-Tier  

A-Tier weapons are strong and reliable but may lack the overall versatility or raw power of S-Tier weapons.

3.1. Impact HAR

Impact HAR

The Impact HAR is a Heavy-Round assault rifle designed for controlled, high-damage shots in mid-range engagements. Impact HAR strengths include: 

• Controlled aggression: Use its slower fire rate to focus on accurate hits rather than spray — each shot hits hard.
• Mid-range effectiveness: Best suited for engagements where precision matters more than volume of fire.
• Attachments improve handling: Equip grips or handling mods to reduce recoil and maintain accuracy during prolonged fights.
• High-damage advantage: Heavy rounds deal more per shot, making it excellent for finishing off armored enemies or high-health targets.
• Optimal scenarios: Ideal for defensive positions, holding choke points, or mid-range skirmishes where timing and aim reward precision.
• Ammo awareness: Moderate reload (≈3.3s) means you need to plan reloads behind cover or during lulls in combat.

3.2. BR33 Volley Rifle

BR33 Volley Rifle

The BR33 Volley Rifle is a burst-fire precision rifle using Light Rounds, ideal for mid-range engagements. This is a fairly slow-rate rifle, but it is great for: 

• Controlled bursts: Fire in 3-round bursts to maximize accuracy and follow-up damage — avoid spamming to prevent missing shots.
• Mid-range focus: With an effective range of 48 meters, it excels at hitting targets before they close the distance.
• Hit consistency matters: Landing all rounds in a burst dramatically increases damage output — aim carefully for critical areas.
• Sustained engagement: 27-round magazine allows multiple bursts, letting you engage several targets before reloading.
• Optimal scenarios: Great for picking off exposed enemies in mid-range fights, holding corridors, or supporting teammates with precise, reliable damage.
• Positioning advantage: Use cover and controlled peeking to ensure bursts land effectively without overexposing yourself.

3.3. Twin Tap HBR

Twin Tap HBR

The Twin Tap HBR is a Heavy-Round precision rifle that fires two bullets per trigger pull, designed for mid- to long-range engagements. Twin Tap HBR is effective in the following situations:

• Double-shot efficiency: Each trigger pull delivers two bullets, rewarding steady aim and controlled bursts over spraying.
• Mid- to long-range focus: Best used to engage enemies from a distance where accuracy outweighs fire rate.
• Attachment synergy: Equip extended magazines, precision barrels, or utility mods to improve sustained damage and handling.
• Damage optimization: Heavy rounds and dual-shot firing allow you to quickly pressure armored targets or high-health enemies.
• Optimal scenarios: Ideal for holding sightlines, overwatch positions, or supporting teammates by softening enemies before closer engagements.
• Reload awareness: With a 2.37-second reload, plan reloads behind cover to maintain pressure without leaving yourself exposed.

3.4. V85 Circuit Breaker

V85 Circuit Breaker

The V85 Circuit Breaker is an energy shotgun using Volt Cells, designed for devastating close-range damage. This energy shotgun is good for both PvE and PvP, and you can use it in the following situations: 

• Close-quarters dominance: Excels in tight corridors, indoor areas, and urban zones where each shot can eliminate enemies instantly.
• Energy damage impact: High per-shot damage makes every bullet count — prioritize precision over spamming.
• Magazine management: 11 shots per magazine require careful use; reload behind cover to avoid vulnerability.
• Attachment benefits: Equip reload speed, control, or unique effect mods to enhance performance in tough fights.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for ambushes, room clears, or defending choke points where enemies are forced into close range.
• Avoid long-range fights: Damage drops off sharply beyond short distances, so pair with a mid-range secondary if needed.

3.5. Outland

Outland

The Outland is a bolt-action sniper rifle designed for long-range precision eliminations. Outland is great for long-range scenarios:

• Long-range supremacy: Ideal for picking off enemies from extreme distances before they can close in.
• High-damage, single-shot focus: Each round can one-shot or heavily damage targets — prioritize high-value or exposed enemies.
• Bolt-action timing: Manual cycling slows follow-up shots, so plan each engagement carefully and reposition after firing.
• Precision over volume: Missing a shot is costly; ensure steady aim and use cover to avoid counterattacks.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for overwatch positions, map control from elevated areas, or eliminating key targets in PvE or PvP.
• Support role: Pair with a faster secondary for mid-range defense, since the Outland shines only at long distances.

3.6. V99 Channel Rifle

V99 Channel Rifle

The V99 Channel Rifle is an energy sniper rifle using Volt Cells, designed for high-damage, long-range precision shots. V99 Channel Rifle can be used in situations like: 

• Long-range elimination: Perfect for picking off enemies from distance, especially in open maps or elevated positions.
• Charge for impact: Hold your shot while scoped to maximize damage — longer charges significantly increase lethality.
• Energy damage advantage: Volt Cell projectiles deal high damage, making it excellent against heavily armored enemies or bosses.
• Precision focus: Tight ADS spread and 2.5× multiplier reward careful aim over rapid firing.
• Optimal scenarios: Ideal for overwatch positions, counter-sniping, or softening high-priority targets before pushing in.
• Pair with mobility or secondary: Since charging slows follow-up shots, use a faster weapon for mid-range threats.

3.7. Longshot

Longshot

The Longshot is a semi-automatic ballistic sniper rifle built for long-range engagements with faster follow-up shots than bolt-action rifles. Longshot can work well even at closer ranges thanks to its faster shots. It is best used in the following situations:

• Long-range dominance: Excels at picking off targets up to 175 meters, rewarding precise aim and positioning.
• Quick follow-ups: Semi-automatic fire allows faster consecutive shots without cycling, ideal for finishing off moving targets.
• Accuracy-focused: Strong ADS precision ensures each shot counts — prioritize headshots or weak points.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for overwatch, clearing open fields, or counter-sniping in PvP and PvE engagements.
• Avoid close-range fights: Slower fire rate and low mobility make it ineffective in tight corridors or fast skirmishes.
• Pair with a secondary: Use a close-range weapon like an SMG or shotgun for when enemies close distance.

3.8. Copperhead RF

Copperhead RF

The Copperhead RF is a high-fire-rate SMG using Light Rounds, designed for fast, close-quarters combat. This is a great weapon for run-and-gun PvP, and you can use it during:

• Close-range dominance: Excels in tight corridors, indoor areas, and urban zones where rapid fire can overwhelm enemies.
• Mobility-focused combat: High rate of fire and light recoil allow you to strafe, dodge, and engage multiple targets quickly.
• Precision less critical: While each bullet deals less damage than heavy rounds, consistent spray and target tracking maximize DPS.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for rushing, flanking, and clearing rooms in PvP or PvE where speed and volume matter more than raw damage per shot.
• Magazine awareness: 21-round mag requires short, controlled bursts or frequent reloads during sustained fights.
• Pair with a secondary: Combine with a mid-range weapon for encounters where long-distance threats may appear.

4. B-Tier

B-Tier weapons in Marathon are reliable but situational choices. They can perform well in specific scenarios or against standard enemies, but generally lack the raw power, versatility, or precision of A- and S-tier options.

4.1. V75 SCAR

V75 SCAR

The V75 SCAR is a semi-automatic assault rifle using Volt Battery ammo, built for precise, controlled fire. V75 SCAR is good in mid to long, and you should use it for anchor points in fights like: 

• Precision over spray: Slow fire rate encourages accurate shots — ideal for picking off enemies rather than spamming bullets.
• Mid-range focus: Excels in engagements where controlled, powerful hits are more effective than volume.
• Overheat management: Avoid sustained fire; let the weapon cool to maintain consistent damage output.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for mid-range skirmishes, holding corridors, or suppressing enemies while maintaining accuracy.
• Volt ammo advantage: Energy rounds provide consistent damage and make it effective against both players and armored AI.
• Pair with mobility or secondary: Since it’s slower than automatic rifles, pair with a close-range SMG or shotgun for tight fights.

4.2. Demolition HMG

Demolition HMG

The Demolition HMG is a Heavy-Round machine gun built for suppressive fire and area control. It is great for fighting reinforcements and defeating UESC commanders or ghosts, and it works well in these situations: 

• Suppressive dominance: Ideal for controlling lanes, chokepoints, and high-traffic areas like reinforcements by keeping enemies pinned.
• Fully automatic pressure: High fire rate allows constant damage output, forcing opponents to take cover or retreat.
• Controlled recoil matters: With moderate recoil and lower accuracy, short bursts or firing from cover maximize effectiveness.
• High per-shot impact: Heavy rounds and 1.5× precision multiplier make each bullet count, especially against armored targets.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for defending objectives, holding open areas, or softening enemies before teammates push.
• Pair with mobility or precision weapons: Use a faster rifle or SMG for close-range engagements, as HMGs are slower to reposition.

4.3. V66 Lookout

V66 Lookout

The V66 Lookout is a Volt Battery precision rifle built for long- to mid-range engagements. This energy rifle’s main strengths include: 

• Long-range efficiency: Excels at picking off targets from a distance, rewarding accurate shots over rapid fire.
• Precision-focused damage: High per-shot damage and a strong precision multiplier make each hit count, especially against armored enemies.
• Balanced handling: Easy to control, allowing consistent shots without advanced recoil skills.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for overwatch positions, securing sightlines, and engaging enemies before they close distance.
• Pair with mobility or secondary: Use a faster-firing weapon for close-range encounters, as the V66 shines at medium to long range.
• Ammo management: Volt Battery rounds deliver high damage but may be limited — prioritize key targets over spamming.

4.4. V00 Zeus RG

V00 Zeus RG

The V00 Zeus RG is a charged railgun using Volt Cells, built for high-impact long-range engagements. Main strengths for V00 Zeus RG include: 

• Long-range elimination: Excels at picking off enemies from extreme distances with one or two well-placed shots.
• Charge shots carefully: Hold your trigger to fully charge — rushing shots reduces damage and wastes ammo.
• High-damage precision: Each shot deals massive damage, making it ideal against armored enemies or high-value targets.
• Ammo management critical: Volt Cells are limited, so prioritize targets and avoid unnecessary shots.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for overwatch positions, counter-sniping, and taking out exposed enemies before they close distance.
• Pair with a fast secondary: Since the railgun is slow to fire, use a close-range weapon for threats that reach mid-range or indoor spaces.

4.5. V22 Volt Thrower

V22 Volt Thrower

The V22 Volt Thrower is a Volt Battery SMG designed for high-rate, close-range energy damage. This weapon is good for PvE clearing due to its large mag size, and it works well during PvP pushing scenarios like:

• Close-quarters dominance: Excels in tight corridors, building interiors, and urban skirmishes where continuous fire can overwhelm enemies.
• Hold to unleash: Fires continuously while the trigger is held, perfect for room clearing or pressuring multiple targets.
• Energy ammo management: Rare Volt Battery rounds require prioritizing high-value targets and avoiding wasteful spraying.
• Optimal scenarios: Best for flanking, clearing objectives, and aggressive PvP pushes in tight spaces.
• Pair with precision weapon: Since it’s less effective at range, use a sniper or mid-range rifle to cover open areas.
• Sustain pressure: Use bursts or controlled movement to maximize DPS without overheating or wasting ammo.
•  

5. C-Tier

Shotgun

Weapons in this tier are situational and can be used in specific moments when your primary weapons are not working properly. You cannot use them against the elite enemies due to their lower damage capability and limitations. Using them against a powerful enemy can leave you vulnerable in most cases.

• Retaliator LMG: decent suppression but lacks the ramping advantage
• Magnum MC: hits hard for a pistol and grants more mobility than rifles.
• Repeater HPR: a lever-action rifle that plays slower than the Twin Tap but works better for controlled engagements.
• Misriah-2442: kept for close encounters and reloads one MIPS cartridge at a time.
• BRRT SMG: has a fast firing rate and eliminates enemies in mid-range combat.

6. D-Tier

Conquest LMG

Weapons in D-tier are not recommended due to their limitations and lack of firing power. You can use them early in the game, but not against powerful opponents.

• Conquest LMG: fire rate ramps up during sustained fire, but limits mobility.
• V11 Punch: deals strong charged burst damage, but has limitations.
• CE Tactical Sidearm: perform decent in close range, but suffers from heavy damage drop-off in mid-range fights.

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