Unlock the AMAX in Warzone: A Comprehensive Guide

The CR-56 AMAX, affectionately known as the AMAX, is a fan-favorite assault rifle in Call of Duty: Warzone. Known for its impressive damage output, relatively low recoil, and versatility, the AMAX remains a competitive option for players of all skill levels. While it might not be the absolute meta weapon in the current season, its consistent performance and familiar feel make it a go-to choice for many. However, unlocking this weapon might not be immediately obvious, especially for newer players or those returning to the game. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the methods for unlocking the AMAX in Warzone, ensuring you can add this powerful weapon to your arsenal.

Understanding the Unlock Requirements

Originally, the AMAX was unlocked by reaching a specific tier in the Season 4 Battle Pass of Modern Warfare (2019). However, since the Battle Pass is no longer active, this method is no longer available. Don’t worry; there are still several ways to obtain this formidable weapon. The primary method now revolves around completing an in-game challenge.

The unlock challenge for the AMAX is:

“Get 3 Gunbutt Kills while using an Assault Rifle in 10 different matches.”

This challenge can be completed in either Modern Warfare Multiplayer, Warzone, or Modern Warfare’s free-to-play multiplayer weekends (when available). For most players, Warzone offers the easiest and most accessible route. Let’s break down this challenge and explore the most effective strategies for completing it efficiently.

Detailed Steps to Unlock the AMAX in Warzone

Here’s a step-by-step guide to unlock the AMAX in Warzone:

1. Choose Your Assault Rifle: Not all assault rifles are created equal when it comes to melee capabilities. While any assault rifle will technically work, some are better suited for gunbutt kills due to their handling and overall versatility. Consider these options:
   • Kilo 141: A very controllable and accurate rifle, making it easy to stay on target while maneuvering for melee attacks. Its predictable recoil allows for quick follow-up shots if your gunbutt doesn’t finish the job.
   • M4A1: Another extremely popular and versatile choice. Its fast fire rate and manageable recoil make it a solid option for both ranged engagements and close-quarters combat.
   • Grau 5.56: While it has seen some nerfs, the Grau remains a viable option due to its excellent accuracy and range. The stability it offers helps maintain control during those frantic close-quarters encounters where you need a quick melee.
   • AK-47 (Modern Warfare version): This is a riskier choice due to its higher recoil, but the AK-47 packs a serious punch. If you can control the recoil, it can be devastating in close range and makes for a powerful follow-up if the gunbutt doesn’t down the enemy.
2. Optimize Your Loadout for Melee: Your loadout should be designed to maximize your chances of getting close to enemies undetected and securing those crucial gunbutt kills. Here are some recommended attachments and perks:
   • Attachments:
     • Skeletal Stock: Improves ADS speed and movement speed, allowing you to quickly close the distance.
     • Tac Laser: Further enhances ADS speed and aiming stability. Be aware that the laser is visible to enemies, so use cover strategically.
     • Stippled Grip Tape: Boosts ADS speed and sprint-to-fire speed, vital for reacting quickly in close-quarters encounters.
     • No Stock: (Situational) Drastically increases mobility but sacrifices aiming stability. Only use this if you’re very confident in your ability to control recoil.
     • Compensator or Muzzle Brake: (Alternative) If you struggle with recoil, these can help improve control, but they will slightly reduce ADS speed.
   • Perks:
     • Double Time: Increases your Tactical Sprint duration and crouch movement speed, helping you close the gap on enemies more effectively.
     • Ghost: Conceals you from UAVs, Radar Drones, and Heartbeat Sensors when moving, allowing you to approach enemies undetected.
     • Amped: Increases weapon swap speed, allowing you to quickly switch to your secondary weapon if the gunbutt doesn’t finish the kill. This is especially useful if you’re using a pistol or shotgun as your secondary.
     • Tracker: (Situational) Allows you to see enemy footprints for a short duration, making it easier to track down opponents in buildings.
   • Secondary Weapon:
     • Shotgun (e.g., Origin 12, R9-0): A shotgun provides incredible stopping power in close range, offering a reliable backup option if your gunbutt doesn’t finish the job.
     • Pistol (e.g., Renetti with Akimbo): Akimbo pistols can deliver a surprising amount of damage up close, providing a quick follow-up if you miss your melee attack.
     • Combat Knife: Although not a firearm, the combat knife offers incredibly fast melee attacks, giving you a further edge in close-quarters combat. Swap to it quickly if you miss the gunbutt for a faster follow-up.
   • Tactical and Lethal Equipment:
     • Stun Grenades/Flashbangs: These are crucial for disorienting enemies, making them easier to approach and land a gunbutt kill.
     • Smoke Grenades: Use smoke grenades to create cover and concealment, allowing you to sneak up on enemies or disengage from unfavorable engagements.
     • Throwing Knives: Offers a silent and deadly way to finish downed enemies without alerting nearby players.
     • Thermite: Can be used to deny areas or flush out enemies from cover, creating opportunities for close-quarters engagements.
3. Choose Your Drop Location Wisely: Landing in high-traffic areas increases your chances of encountering enemies early in the game, providing more opportunities for gunbutt kills. However, it also increases the risk of being eliminated quickly. Consider these options:
   • High-Traffic Zones (e.g., Superstore, Storage Town, Airport): These areas are typically filled with players, increasing the frequency of encounters. Be prepared for intense, chaotic combat.
   • Smaller POIs (e.g., Farms, Lumber Yard, TV Station): These locations offer a balance between enemy encounters and loot availability. You’re more likely to find unlooted buildings and catch enemies off guard.
   • Areas Near the Flight Path: These areas tend to attract more players early in the game.
4. Employ Tactical Movement: Getting close to enemies undetected is crucial for landing gunbutt kills. Utilize these tactics:
   • Slide Canceling: Master the slide canceling technique to maintain momentum and quickly navigate around corners.
   • Crouch Walking: Use crouch walking to reduce your noise and avoid detection by enemy players using headsets.
   • Utilize Cover: Stick to cover whenever possible to minimize your exposure to enemy fire.
   • Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to audio cues, such as footsteps and weapon fire, to anticipate enemy movements.
5. The Gunbutt Technique: Execute the gunbutt attack effectively:
   • Get Close: You need to be within melee range to perform a gunbutt. This usually means being practically face-to-face with your opponent.
   • Melee Button: Press the melee button (usually bound to V on PC, R3 on PlayStation, or RS on Xbox) to strike with the butt of your gun.
   • Follow Up: A single gunbutt might not always down an enemy, especially if they have full armor. Be prepared to follow up with another gunbutt or switch to your secondary weapon for a quick kill.
   • Aim for the Head: While not always easy, aiming for the head with your gunbutt can increase the damage and potentially down the enemy in a single hit.
6. Track Your Progress: Keep track of how many matches you’ve completed with at least 3 gunbutt kills. You can check your progress in the challenges menu. This will help you stay motivated and ensure you’re making progress towards unlocking the AMAX.
7. Persistence is Key: Unlocking the AMAX can be challenging and may require multiple attempts. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get 3 gunbutt kills in every match. Keep practicing, refining your strategies, and adjusting your loadout until you achieve your goal.

Tips and Tricks for Efficient Gunbutt Kills

Here are some additional tips and tricks to help you unlock the AMAX faster:

• Play Plunder: Plunder mode allows for faster respawns and more frequent engagements, providing more opportunities for gunbutt kills. Focus on landing in high-traffic areas and aggressively pursuing enemies.
• Downed Enemies: Downed enemies are easy targets for gunbutt kills. If you down an enemy with gunfire, quickly switch to your gunbutt and finish them off.
• Team Up: Playing with friends can make the challenge easier. Coordinate your attacks and help each other secure gunbutt kills.
• Target Isolated Players: Look for players who are isolated from their team and focus on ambushing them.
• Use Distractions: Use tactical equipment, such as stun grenades and flashbangs, to distract enemies and create openings for gunbutt kills.
• Learn the Maps: Familiarize yourself with the maps and identify areas where enemies are likely to be camping or rotating.
• Adjust Your Sensitivity: Experiment with different sensitivity settings to find what works best for you. A higher sensitivity can allow you to react more quickly in close-quarters combat.
• Practice in Private Matches: If you have access to Modern Warfare multiplayer, practice your gunbutt skills in private matches against bots.

Alternative Methods (Modern Warfare Multiplayer)

If you own Modern Warfare (2019), completing the challenge in multiplayer can be significantly easier due to the smaller maps and faster-paced gameplay. Consider these game modes and strategies:

• Small Maps (Shipment, Shoot House): These maps are incredibly chaotic and provide constant opportunities for close-quarters engagements.
• Hardcore Mode: In Hardcore mode, players have significantly less health, making it easier to secure kills with a single gunbutt.
• Play Aggressively: Push aggressively and engage enemies at close range. Don’t be afraid to die; the more encounters you have, the more opportunities you’ll get for gunbutt kills.

Why Unlock the AMAX?

Even though the AMAX isn’t always the top meta weapon, it remains a solid and reliable choice for several reasons:

• High Damage Output: The AMAX boasts impressive damage per bullet, making it effective at both short and medium ranges.
• Controllable Recoil: With the right attachments, the AMAX has manageable recoil, allowing for accurate shots even at longer distances.
• Versatility: The AMAX can be adapted to different playstyles with various attachments. You can build it for close-quarters combat, long-range engagements, or a balanced approach.
• Familiarity: Many players have spent countless hours using the AMAX, making it a comfortable and familiar weapon.

Conclusion

Unlocking the AMAX in Warzone requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt your playstyle. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to adding this powerful assault rifle to your arsenal. Remember to optimize your loadout, choose your drop location wisely, and employ tactical movement to maximize your chances of securing those crucial gunbutt kills. Good luck, and happy hunting!