I'd say that Rifle is probably the best single ranged weapon for PvE.
+ Better DPS than Pistol
+ Better range than pistol
+ Ammo is far less bulky than Launcher/Autolauncher; no packers required
+ Ammo is light enough that you can carry a full stack, yet bulky enough that you're less likely to nail yourself ot the ground like Pistol
+ No risk of accidental AoE like Launcher/Autolauncher
- DPS is still lower than any weapon except Dagger or Pistol
- 20% fewer crits/minute than Pistol
- Sometimes AoE is a good thing
IMO, launcher and autolauncher are a bit too conditional while Pistol is better at racking up crits than in taking down mobs; better for team support or PvP than as a solo PvE weapon.
+ Better DPS than Pistol
+ Better range than pistol
+ Ammo is far less bulky than Launcher/Autolauncher; no packers required
+ Ammo is light enough that you can carry a full stack, yet bulky enough that you're less likely to nail yourself ot the ground like Pistol
+ No risk of accidental AoE like Launcher/Autolauncher
- DPS is still lower than any weapon except Dagger or Pistol
- 20% fewer crits/minute than Pistol
- Sometimes AoE is a good thing
IMO, launcher and autolauncher are a bit too conditional while Pistol is better at racking up crits than in taking down mobs; better for team support or PvP than as a solo PvE weapon.
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