Best Automaton Vanguard class loadout: Attachments, Perks, Proficiency, Setup

Alex Garton
Call of Duty Vanguard Automaton

The Automaton Assault Rifle is a destructive force in CoD Vanguard and it’s perfect for shredding opponents at medium range. Here’s the best Automaton loadout in Vanguard to help you get the most out of this deadly full-auto weapon.

When it comes to picking an AR in Vanguard Season 5, like Warzone, it’s important the weapon has a solid TTK, damage range, and a manageable recoil pattern. Of course, with so many options to choose from, this can be a difficult combination to find, but a few guns stand out from the crowd deep into the game’s release.

One of which is the Automaton, a full-auto AR that melts enemies at medium range and is capable of taking out multiple opponents with a single mag.

However, to get the most out of the weapon, you need a top-tier loadout in the game that pushes the gun to its limit and we’ve got you covered.

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Contents


Automaton Call of Duty Vanguard
The Automaton has an incredibly fast TTK.

Best Automaton Vanguard loadout

Attachments

  • Muzzle: MX Silencer
  • Barrel: ZAC 600mm BFA
  • Optic: G16 2.5x
  • Stock: Anastasia Padded
  • Underbarrel: M1941 Hand Stop
  • Magazine: 6.5MM Sakura 75 Round Drums
  • Ammo Type: Lengthened
  • Rear Grip: Polymer Grip
  • Proficiency: Tight Grip
  • Kit: Fully Loaded

First of all, you’ll want to use the MX Silencer in the Muzzle slot to bolster the Automaton’s recoil control, whilst the ZAC 600mm BFA Barrel boots the range, making it devastating at mid-range.

Next, utilize the Anastasia Padded Stock to further help the recoil, making it far easier to land shots at longer distances. The same can be said of the M1941 Hand Stop Underbarrel, which, paired with other attachments on this list, helps tame the weapon’s wild kickback.

After that, make sure to equip the 6.5mm Sakura 75 Rnd magazine so you can eliminate multiple opponents in a single clip. There’s nothing worse than running out of bullets mid-way through a fight and while increasing your mag size does come at the cost of some ADS speed, it’s well worth it.

A clear optic is absolutely key if you want to land your shots, so we recommend the G16 2.5X, a sight that’s perfect for medium-range encounters. However, keep in mind, optics all come down to preference so don’t be afraid to experiment and find one that fits your playstyle.

Automaton Vanguard CoD
The Automaton lacks mobility but is perfect for players looking to hold down a position.

When it comes to Ammo type, you’ll want to run Lengenthed. These rounds improve bullet velocity, so the Automaton will pack a serious punch in gunfights at any distance.

Keep in mind, that the Automaton does have a hefty recoil pattern, so don’t forget to add the Polymer Grip to your loadout. This Rear Grip attachment provides increased recoil control with minimal negative effects, unlike a lot of the other options for the weapon.

Finally, round off the class with the Tight Grip Proficiency for one final slither of recoil control and the Fully Loaded kit to help you earn more XP in your matches.

Best Automaton Vanguard class (Perks, Equipment, & Field Upgrade)

Perks CoD Vanguard
The Automaton lacks mobility, but you can make up for that with your perk choices.
  • First Perk: Ghost
  • Second Perk: Radar
  • Third Perk: Overkill
  • Secondary: Machine Pistol
  • Lethal: Thermite
  • Tactical: Stim
  • Field Upgrade: Armor

When it comes to Perks in Vanguard, there appear to be standout three choices that the majority of loadouts are using as they combine so well together.

These are Ghost to remain undetected on enemy radars, Overkill for the dual primary weapon slots, and of course Radar, so you can track any opponents on the map not making use of silenced weapons.

For the secondary, make sure you run the Machine Pistol so you always have a close-quarter alternative when necessary. Although you’ll rarely need to use this weapon, it’s helpful to have a backup just in case your primary runs out of bullets.

Vanguard solider Call of Duty
CoD Vanguard launched on November 5.

While Lethal and Tactical choices aren’t the most important aspects of a loadout, they can help you get out of a difficult situation and pick up some extra kills. So, make sure you run the Thermite for an incendiary that can clear out an entire room and cause serious damage, and the Stim to boost your health after a close gunfight.

Finish off the loadout with the Armor Field upgrade, as absorbing a few extra bullets can be the difference-maker between you going down, or taking out your opponent.

That’s a full rundown on our optimal Automaton loadout in Vanguard, and rest assured, we’ll keep this loadout updated with the latest optimal attachments and equipment as the game develops season on season.

Best Automaton class Vanguard tips

The Automaton is slowly becoming a favorite among many Vanguard players. The main attraction of this Assault Rifle is its incredibly high fire rate.

Here are a few tips on how to effectively take advantage of our best Automaton class in Vanguard:

  • The Automaton’s fire rate is similar to that of an SMG. This makes it quite effective up-close.
  • This weapon has fairly easy recoil to control. Don’t be afraid to engage in medium to long-range gunfights.
  • The perk “Ghost” conceals you from the enemy mini-map. Use this to your advantage by confusing your enemies.
  • The perk “Radar” allows you to see enemies on your mini-map who are not using a silencer. Stay vigilant!

Also, remember to always develop a playstyle that feels the best for you. With that said, if you’re still struggling to succeed with the Automaton, these tips should be helpful.

How to unlock the Automaton in Vanguard

The Automation in Vanguard
The Automaton is unlocked at level 8 in CoD Vanguard.

In order to unlock the Automaton in CoD Vanguard, you’ll need to level up and reach Rank 8. This shouldn’t take too long if you make use of Double XP tokens or play with the Assault and Blitz Combat Pacing to increase the lobby size.

To maximize XP, also make sure to play the objective in game modes like Domination, Patrol, and Hardpoint which almost guarantee XP.

Alternative to the Automaton Vanguard loadout

Cooper Carbine loadout screen
The best Cooper Carbine loadout melts opponents in close-quarter battles.

If you’re looking for an alternative to the Automaton, then check out our Cooper Carbine loadout. This Assault Rifle has an almost identical fire rate to the Automaton, it’s one of the most consistent weapons in the game, and it can be one of the deadliest in terms of close-range damage output.

Further balance changes are sure to come at some point in the future, so be sure to check out this Assault Rifle while it’s in good standing.


Looking for more Call of Duty: Vanguard updates and information? Check our list of guides below:

Best CoD Vanguard FOV settings | Best MP40 Vanguard loadout | Best M1928 Vanguard loadout | Every CoD Vanguard perk

About The Author

Alex Garton is a former writer for Dexerto. He has a BA in English Literature and has been a Games Writer for over four years. He has previously written for Gfinity and TOP10Esports. Specializing in Call of Duty and Apex Legends, he also enjoys diving into new releases to create informative guides.