Fortnite Weapon Balance Changes: MK7, Hollow Twister, and More

Fortnite’s newest update just landed, and it’s one of those patches that mixes excitement with confusion. Not only were several weapons unvaulted, but Epic also slipped in some balance tweaks that have already got players rethinking loadouts. Between returning red-dot ARs, the reappearance of shotguns, and a handful of quiet stat adjustments, the meta feels like it’s shifting once again.
Unvaulted Weapons: MK7, Hollow Twister AR, Frenzy Auto Shotgun
The biggest headline of the patch is the unvaulting of several fan-favorite guns. The MK7, Hollow Twister AR, and Frenzy Auto Shotgun are now available across all rarities. On top of that, the Spire AR is back—though only in its legendary version. The limited re-release of just one rarity feels similar to how Epic briefly brought back only the legendary and exotic Pump last weekend.
Between the MK7 and Hollow Twister AR, the choice comes down to sights and fire rate. The MK7 has its faster fire rate with a red-dot, while the Hollow Twister leans on added damage through its holographic sight. Both are reliable and low-recoil, but in cover-based fights, the Hollow Twister’s extra punch makes it stand out.
Shotguns: Frenzy Auto vs Wrecker Revolver
The Frenzy Auto Shotgun was a powerhouse when Chapter 5 started but has since been nerfed into a more situational pick. Its short range means players often need to get uncomfortably close for consistent damage. Compared to the Wrecker Revolver, which offers strong close-range play without forcing full commitment, the Frenzy feels clunky.
Even with fizz jumps and mobility tricks, the Frenzy lacks the versatility of the Wrecker. For many fights, the Revolver remains the go-to choice. That said, the Frenzy still has moments where it shines—particularly in tight spaces where its fast fire rate can melt opponents.
Balance Tweaks: Revolver Nerf and SMG Buffs
This update didn’t just focus on unvaults. Several weapons got small but notable balance changes. The Wrecker Revolver was hit with a 6% damage reduction, though most players won’t notice much difference in actual fights—it remains a top-tier shotgun.
Meanwhile, the Precision SMG saw its mag size bumped from 21 to 23, along with a slight fire rate and range increase. On paper, it’s a solid buff, especially with extended mags available this season. But the reintroduction of red-dot ARs like the MK7 and Hollow Twister overshadows the SMG, limiting its niche.
The Burst Pistol also got attention, with its mag size raised twice recently, now up to 24, plus a 5% fire rate increase. Despite the improvements, swap delays when pairing it with the Wrecker Revolver make it less appealing.
🤘 Win a Six Stack (Pure Chaos) match in Blitz Royale this weekend and earn the Bug Punk Sunny Outfit! 🤘 Tag ur 5 friends and good luck, Pure Chaos is the most competitive Blitz lobby 😉 🔥
byu/FortniteStatusBot inFortNiteBR
Odd Vaults, Blitz Royale, and the Free Sunny Skin
Perhaps the strangest part of this update was the treatment of the Twin Fire Auto Shotgun. It was buffed with better reload speed and damag only to be vaulted later that same day. It’s still available in Blitz mode, but for standard battle royale, it’s gone.
Speaking of Blitz, Epic is offering a special reward this weekend. Winning a game of Blitz Royale 6Stack between September 12–14 unlocks the Sunny skin for free, which will be granted on the 15th. Whether Sunny eventually hits the item shop is unknown, but for now, grinding Blitz is the only guaranteed way to get her.