The Wood Stake Shotgun is under the community microscoper for its viability in Fortnite Chapter 5, Season 4. This slug-style shotgun shoots a wooden stake, similar to the reworked heavy shotgun in Chapter 3 or the Breacher shotgun. Instead of shooting a spread of pellets, it fires a single projectile, delivering all or none of the damage depending on accuracy.
How Slug-Style Shotguns Differ from Pellet Weapons
Shotguns excel in close-range combat because the pellet spread makes them easier to aim and hit, even with hip fire. Even a poorly aimed shot can still cause some damage. For instance, a bad shot might deal 24 damage, which is better than nothing. Fortnite shotguns, as pellet weapons, offer forgiving aim, allowing players to land consistent hits in close-range scenarios. On the other hand, slug-style shotguns like the Wood Stake Shotgun are less forgiving, with an all-or-nothing approach. This makes them high-risk, high-reward weapons.
Wood Stake Shotgun Stats and Acquisition
The Gold Wood Stake Shotgun in Fortnite Chapter 5, Season 4 deals 101 body damage and 177 headshot damage at ideal ranges. Unlike regular shotguns, the Wood Stake does not vary in damage; hitting your target ensures a consistent outcome. The Gold version of this shotgun is not available in the regular loot pool, and can only be obtained from specific NPCs. Players can eliminate the boss at Brawler’s Patch or purchase the Gold version from the Hope NPC at Sandy Steps. Additionally, the Dark Ruby skin at Rebel’s Roost drops a Blue version of the Wood Stake Shotgun upon elimination.
Importance of Aim with the Wood Stake Shotgun
Aim plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of the Wood Stake Shotgun. Hitting a single shot deals substantial damage, but the weapon’s unforgiving nature makes it challenging to use. Aiming down sights tightens the crosshair, which improves accuracy. However, aiming slows movement, making it easier for enemies to evade shots, especially in close-range combat. Hip firing can still be effective, but precision is required, especially within optimal shotgun ranges.
Comparing the Wood Stake Shotgun to Other Shotguns
The current Fortnite shotgun loot pool includes high-fire-rate shotguns like the Gatekeeper and the Sovereign, both of which are easier to use and deal significant damage. These shotguns are effective in chaotic fights and provide solid range, making them strong alternatives to the Wood Stake Shotgun. Even in ideal situations, the Wood Stake’s benefits don’t outweigh its downsides when compared to the fast-paced Gatekeeper or the versatile Sovereign.
Impact of Fortnite’s Mobility on the Wood Stake Shotgun
Fortnite’s high mobility in Chapter 5 makes it difficult to land precise shots with the Wood Stake Shotgun. With features like the witches’ broom, shockwaves, and the chainsaw Sherry claws, players can quickly move around the map, making slug-style shotguns less effective. Although the jetpack and war machine hover jets have been vaulted, the game’s chaotic nature still affects the viability of the Wood Stake Shotgun.
Wood Stake Shotgun in Less Chaotic Environments
The Wood Stake Shotgun thrives in more controlled environments. In chaotic fights, faster shotguns like the Gatekeeper and Sovereign perform better, allowing players to deal consistent damage without relying on perfect aim. While the jetpack being vaulted has reduced chaos slightly, the mobility in the game still makes it difficult to consistently use the Wood Stake Shotgun effectively.
