SMG vs Assault Rifle – 007 First Light Guide
Choosing between an SMG and an Assault Rifle in 007 First Light is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your loadout. Both weapons excel in different scenarios, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for mission success.
This comprehensive comparison breaks down every aspect of SMGs versus Assault Rifles—from damage output and range to recoil patterns and tactical applications. Whether you prefer close-quarters combat or versatile mid-range engagements, this guide will help you choose the right weapon for your playstyle.
Quick Comparison Overview
| Attribute | SMG | Assault Rifle |
|---|---|---|
| Damage per Shot | Medium (25-30) | High (35-45) |
| Fire Rate | Very High (900 RPM) | High (650 RPM) |
| Effective Range | Close (0-15m) | Medium-Long (15-50m) |
| Recoil | High | Medium |
| Mobility | Excellent | Good |
| Magazine Size | 30-40 rounds | 30 rounds |
| Best For | Close quarters, aggressive play | Versatile, all-around combat |
Detailed Weapon Analysis
Damage Comparison
SMG Damage Profile
SMGs in 007 First Light deal 25-30 damage per shot, requiring 4-5 shots to eliminate standard enemies. While individual shot damage is lower than assault rifles, the extremely high fire rate (900 RPM) compensates with superior DPS (Damage Per Second) at close range.
- Close Range (0-10m): 30 damage per shot, 450 DPS
- Medium Range (10-20m): 25 damage per shot, 375 DPS
- Long Range (20m+): 20 damage per shot, 300 DPS (not recommended)
Assault Rifle Damage Profile
Assault Rifles deliver 35-45 damage per shot, eliminating standard enemies in 3-4 shots. The moderate fire rate (650 RPM) provides consistent damage across all ranges, making it the more versatile choice for varied combat scenarios.
- Close Range (0-15m): 45 damage per shot, 487 DPS
- Medium Range (15-35m): 40 damage per shot, 433 DPS
- Long Range (35-50m): 35 damage per shot, 379 DPS
Winner: Assault Rifle for overall damage consistency. SMG wins in close-range DPS but loses effectiveness beyond 15 meters. For more weapon stats, check our complete weapons database.
Range and Accuracy
Range is where the Assault Rifle truly shines. Let's break down effective engagement distances:
SMG Range Characteristics
SMGs are optimized for close-quarters combat. Beyond 15 meters, damage falloff and bullet spread make them significantly less effective. The high fire rate causes substantial recoil, making sustained accuracy difficult at distance.
- Optimal Range: 0-10 meters (maximum effectiveness)
- Effective Range: 10-15 meters (still viable)
- Falloff Range: 15-25 meters (significant damage drop)
- Beyond 25m: Not recommended, switch to sidearm
Assault Rifle Range Characteristics
Assault Rifles maintain effectiveness across multiple engagement ranges. Moderate recoil and superior accuracy make them reliable from close to long range, though they're outclassed by SMGs in tight spaces and sniper rifles at extreme distances.
- Close Range: 0-15 meters (competitive with SMGs)
- Optimal Range: 15-35 meters (peak performance)
- Effective Range: 35-50 meters (still accurate)
- Long Range: 50m+ (possible but not ideal)
Winner: Assault Rifle dominates in range and accuracy. The SMG's close-range specialization limits tactical flexibility in open environments.
Recoil and Control
Recoil management is crucial for maintaining accuracy during sustained fire. Here's how each weapon handles:
SMG Recoil Pattern
SMGs have aggressive vertical recoil with significant horizontal drift. The 900 RPM fire rate makes recoil control challenging, especially for new players. Burst firing is essential beyond 10 meters.
- Vertical Recoil: High (climbs rapidly)
- Horizontal Recoil: Medium-High (unpredictable)
- Recoil Recovery: Fast (returns to center quickly)
- Control Difficulty: Hard (requires practice)
Assault Rifle Recoil Pattern
Assault Rifles feature moderate, predictable recoil patterns. The slower fire rate (650 RPM) allows easier compensation, making them more forgiving for players still developing recoil control skills.
- Vertical Recoil: Medium (manageable climb)
- Horizontal Recoil: Low (minimal drift)
- Recoil Recovery: Medium (steady return)
- Control Difficulty: Easy-Medium (beginner-friendly)
Winner: Assault Rifle for controllability. The predictable recoil pattern and slower fire rate make it significantly easier to maintain accuracy during extended engagements.
SMG: Pros and Cons
Pros
- ✓Exceptional Close-Range DPS: Melts enemies in tight spaces faster than any other weapon class
- ✓Superior Mobility: Fastest movement speed while aiming and firing
- ✓Large Magazine: 30-40 rounds allow sustained fire without reloading
- ✓Fast Handling: Quick draw, aim, and reload speeds
- ✓Hip-Fire Accuracy: Effective without aiming down sights
- ✓Aggressive Playstyle: Perfect for rushing and flanking tactics
Cons
- ✗Limited Range: Ineffective beyond 15 meters
- ✗High Recoil: Difficult to control during sustained fire
- ✗Lower Damage per Shot: Requires more hits to eliminate targets
- ✗Ammo Consumption: Burns through ammunition quickly
- ✗Situational Effectiveness: Struggles in open environments
- ✗Skill Requirement: Harder to master than assault rifles
Assault Rifle: Pros and Cons
Pros
- ✓Versatile Range: Effective from close to long distances
- ✓High Damage per Shot: Fewer bullets needed to eliminate enemies
- ✓Manageable Recoil: Easy to control for accurate sustained fire
- ✓Consistent Performance: Reliable across all mission types
- ✓Beginner-Friendly: Easier learning curve than specialized weapons
- ✓Ammo Efficiency: Better damage-to-ammo ratio
Cons
- ✗Lower Fire Rate: Slower time-to-kill in close quarters
- ✗Reduced Mobility: Slower movement speed than SMGs
- ✗Slower Handling: Longer draw and aim times
- ✗Hip-Fire Accuracy: Less effective without aiming
- ✗Jack of All Trades: Doesn't excel in any specific scenario
- ✗Standard Magazine: 30 rounds can feel limiting in intense firefights
When to Use Each Weapon
Choose SMG When:
- 1.Indoor Facility Infiltrations
Tight corridors, small rooms, and close-quarters environments favor the SMG's high fire rate and mobility. Missions like the submarine base or casino interior are perfect SMG territory.
- 2.Aggressive Rushing Tactics
When you need to push objectives quickly or flank enemy positions, the SMG's superior mobility and close-range lethality make it the ideal choice. Pair with smoke grenades for maximum effectiveness.
- 3.Stealth-to-Combat Transitions
If your stealth approach fails in close quarters, the SMG's fast handling and hip-fire accuracy let you respond instantly without aiming delays.
- 4.Multiple Close-Range Enemies
When facing groups of enemies in tight spaces, the SMG's large magazine and high fire rate allow you to engage multiple targets without reloading.
- 5.Run-and-Gun Playstyle
If you prefer constant movement and aggressive positioning, the SMG's mobility advantages support this playstyle better than any other weapon class.
Choose Assault Rifle When:
- 1.Mixed Environment Missions
When missions feature both indoor and outdoor sections, the assault rifle's versatility ensures you're never at a disadvantage regardless of engagement distance.
- 2.Medium-Range Engagements
Open courtyards, rooftops, and outdoor areas with 15-35 meter sightlines are where assault rifles dominate. The Iceland and Monaco missions heavily favor assault rifle gameplay.
- 3.Learning the Game
New players should start with assault rifles. The forgiving recoil, consistent performance, and versatility make them ideal for developing fundamental shooting skills.
- 4.Defensive Positions
When holding objectives or defending areas, the assault rifle's range advantage lets you engage enemies before they close distance, maintaining tactical superiority.
- 5.Unknown Mission Layouts
If you're unsure what engagement ranges to expect, the assault rifle's all-around capability ensures you're prepared for any scenario. It's the safest default choice.
Loadout Recommendations
SMG Loadout: The Aggressive Infiltrator
- Primary: SMG (with extended magazine)
- Secondary: Silenced Pistol (for stealth eliminations)
- Gadget 1: Smoke Grenades (cover for aggressive pushes)
- Gadget 2: Grappling Hook (quick repositioning)
- Throwable: Flashbangs (room clearing)
This loadout maximizes the SMG's close-quarters dominance while providing tools for rapid movement and tactical flexibility. The silenced pistol handles stealth sections, while the SMG excels when combat erupts.
Assault Rifle Loadout: The Versatile Operator
- Primary: Assault Rifle (with scope and grip)
- Secondary: Silenced Pistol (backup and stealth)
- Gadget 1: Spy Drone (reconnaissance)
- Gadget 2: Hacking Device (security bypass)
- Throwable: Frag Grenades (area denial)
This balanced loadout leverages the assault rifle's versatility with gadgets that support tactical gameplay. The spy drone provides intel, while the assault rifle handles any engagement distance. Perfect for adaptive playstyles. See more configurations in our loadout guide.
Hybrid Loadout: Best of Both Worlds
- Primary: Assault Rifle (standard configuration)
- Secondary: Machine Pistol (SMG-like backup)
- Gadget 1: Smoke Grenades (versatile utility)
- Gadget 2: Lockpick Set (exploration)
- Throwable: Throwing Knives (silent eliminations)
This hybrid approach uses the assault rifle for primary engagements while the machine pistol provides SMG-like performance in emergencies. Offers flexibility for players who want options for any situation.
Mission-Specific Recommendations
| Mission | Recommended Weapon | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Mission 1: London Calling | Assault Rifle | Mixed indoor/outdoor, varied ranges |
| Mission 2: Iceland Infiltration | Assault Rifle | Open outdoor areas, long sightlines |
| Mission 3: Monaco Chase | Assault Rifle | Urban environment, medium ranges |
| Mission 4: Casino Royale | SMG | Tight interior spaces, close quarters |
| Mission 5: Submarine Base | SMG | Narrow corridors, CQB focus |
| Mission 6: Final Confrontation | Assault Rifle | Boss fight, varied phases and ranges |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for beginners: SMG or Assault Rifle?
The Assault Rifle is significantly better for beginners. Its manageable recoil, consistent damage across all ranges, and forgiving performance make it ideal for learning the game. SMGs require better aim, recoil control, and positioning awareness to use effectively. New players should master assault rifles first, then experiment with SMGs once they understand map layouts and engagement distances.
Can SMGs compete with Assault Rifles at medium range?
No, SMGs cannot effectively compete with assault rifles beyond 15 meters. The damage falloff, increased recoil, and bullet spread make SMGs unreliable at medium range. If you find yourself frequently engaging enemies at 15+ meters with an SMG, you're using the wrong weapon for the situation. Either reposition to close distance or switch to an assault rifle for that mission.
What attachments should I use for each weapon?
For SMGs, prioritize extended magazines (40 rounds) and laser sights for improved hip-fire accuracy. Vertical grips help manage recoil but don't eliminate it. For Assault Rifles, use optical sights (red dot or holographic) for better target acquisition, vertical grips for recoil reduction, and extended magazines if available. Avoid suppressors on both weapons unless stealth is absolutely required, as they reduce damage and range.
Which weapon has better DPS (Damage Per Second)?
It depends on range. At close range (0-10m), the SMG has superior DPS at approximately 450 compared to the assault rifle's 487. However, this advantage disappears beyond 15 meters where the SMG's damage falloff reduces its DPS to around 300, while the assault rifle maintains 433+ DPS. For sustained damage output across varied ranges, the assault rifle is more consistent.
Should I ever use both an SMG and Assault Rifle in the same loadout?
No, you can only equip one primary weapon in 007 First Light. However, you can create a hybrid approach by pairing an assault rifle with a machine pistol secondary, which provides SMG-like performance for close-quarters emergencies. This gives you versatility without sacrificing your primary weapon slot. Alternatively, master weapon switching between missions based on the expected engagement ranges.
Final Recommendation
The Verdict: Assault Rifle Wins Overall
While the SMG excels in specific close-quarters scenarios, the Assault Rifle is the superior choice for most players and situations in 007 First Light. Its versatility, consistent performance, manageable recoil, and effectiveness across all ranges make it the more reliable weapon.
Choose the Assault Rifle if you:
- Are new to the game or still learning mechanics
- Prefer a versatile weapon that works in any situation
- Play missions with varied environments and engagement distances
- Want consistent, predictable performance
- Struggle with recoil control
Choose the SMG if you:
- Have mastered recoil control and positioning
- Prefer aggressive, fast-paced gameplay
- Know the mission features primarily close-quarters combat
- Want maximum mobility and handling speed
- Enjoy high-risk, high-reward playstyles
Ultimately, the "best" weapon depends on your playstyle, skill level, and mission requirements. Experiment with both to find what works for you, but don't hesitate to switch weapons between missions based on the environment. Adaptability is the mark of a true 007 agent.