Every legendary assault rifle in Borderlands 4 has been collected and tested on the most neutral build possible, specifically a fire rate rafa build. These opinions on the top five assault rifles are based on performance during testing. Some of these assault rifles require specific roles for optimal results, and information on where to farm all of them is provided. The breakdown focuses mainly on legendary weapons, yet it is highly recommended not to overlook purple assault rifles.
The gameplay featured uses a purple assault rifle known as the Strong Trunchon, a torque assault rifle that rolled with Malawan for elemental capabilities and Jacob's parts for critical ricochet. This weapon has proven to be a favorite due to its exceptionally high base damage and ability to ricochet and benefit from elemental effects.
While this list features the top five legendary assault rifles, purple variants can be among the best Borderlands 4 items in the game and should not be underestimated.
Overview: Top 5 Assault Rifles
| Rank | Name | Notable Traits | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wombo Combo | Default grenade launcher shots, all elements, splash damage | Bossing, mobbing, vile enemies |
| 2 | GMR | Big Name Hunter perk, high base damage, no charge-up | Mobbing, high-damage shots |
| 3 | Oscar Mike Datalus | Space laser underbarrel, tactical rounds, versatile buffs | Bossing, tactical play |
| 4 | Chuck | Tediore reload throw, homing projectiles, fast reload spam | Mobbing, bossing (specific builds) |
| 5 | Lucien's Flank | Trample passive, Jacob's parts, ammo refill on crits | Mobbing, versatility |
Lucien's Flank and Aegon's Dream
The fifth spot is held by Lucien's Flank, a returning weapon from Borderlands 3. This assault rifle offers the trample legendary passive, where critical hits can refill up to two ammo to the magazine. It features Jacob's parts for ricochet, making it effective for both ammo efficiency and multi-target damage.
While Lucien's Flank has lower damage per second compared to others, its versatility stands out, especially when rolling with the alt fire extra barrel for increased fire rate or tor stickies for higher single-target damage. It is a reliable mobbing weapon but not ideal for fast boss kills. A comparable alternative is Aegon's Dream, which offers fire and cryo damage and similar performance if equipped with Jacob's roll.
For those seeking to obtain Lucien's Flank, the Meathead Riders in Terminus Range, southern Cusped Climb, are the recommended farming target.
Chuck: The Unique Reload Thrower
The Chuck assault rifle secures the fourth spot with its unique Tediore mechanic: instead of firing bullets, it reloads and throws itself, acting as a spammable weapon. This feature, combined with the tor passive replicator homing, allows each reload to launch homing projectiles that target enemies, resulting in impressive mobbing damage.
Chuck is especially effective with specific builds, such as those utilizing the Grenazerker class mod, which enables additional grenade or Tediore gun throws. When built around this mechanic, Chuck becomes a devastating tool for both mobbing and bossing, though it remains niche due to its build dependency.
For those interested in farming Chuck, head to the CrawlCraft Order Bunker in Grindstone of the Worthy, Ccadia Burn, and target Fractice.
Oscar Mike Datalus: Space Laser Precision
Ranked third, the Oscar Mike Datalus assault rifle offers two underbarrel options, with the space laser being the most desirable. This space laser inflicts thousands of damage every two seconds, and its effects can be amplified with an amp rep kit, making all laser ticks deal additional damage.
The Oscar Mike Datalus synergizes with a variety of skills, such as Vex's bloodshot and dragon's breath, and features the tactical rounds passive for a 50% bonus to the first half of the magazine. Building around these strengths enables one-shot boss potential.
To farm this weapon, defeat Gen One in Lopside, Carcadia Burn, accessible after completing the faultf finding side quest. In the pursuit of these powerful assault rifles, efficient farming and maximizing resources are essential. For those looking to gain an edge, consider optimizing with Borderlands 4 money solutions for in-game upgrades.
GMR: The Heavy Hitter
Taking the second spot, GMR stands out as the only order weapon that impresses with its usability. Its Big Name Hunter legendary perk doubles damage and shot cost while halving fire rate when aiming down sights, resulting in exceptional damage per bullet. With fire rate buffs, GMR maintains a satisfying firing speed and excels at mobbing.
The weapon is particularly effective on Rafa or bleed-focused Vex builds due to its high base damage. Notably, it lacks an order charge mechanic, allowing for continuous firing. To obtain the GMR, visit Tonnage Peel in Ccadia Burn and defeat Driller Hole.
Wombo Combo: The Best of the Best
The Wombo Combo claims the top position. This Vlad assault rifle features a built-in grenade launcher that significantly increases splash damage. Available in all elements, it is highly versatile for both boss fights and mobbing, particularly effective against vile enemies with crystals.
The Wombo Combo's splash damage easily destroys crystals and clears mobs efficiently. It does not require highly specific rolls to be powerful, making it accessible for early and endgame players alike. Farming for this weapon involves battling the Ripper Roadb Birds in the Ruined Sumplands, Carcadia Burn area.
Honorable Mentions
Other notable assault rifles that nearly made the list include the Goalkeeper, which offers a fun gameplay experience, the Potato Thrower, and the Bonnie and Clyde when used with the right setup. While strong, they do not quite reach the power level of the top five selections.