“A cheap option for cash-strapped players, the FAMAS effectively fills the niche between more expensive rifles and the less-effective SMGs.” ― Official description
The FAMAS, or Clarion 5.56, as it was previously known, is a rifle featured in the Counter-Strike series.
Overview
The FAMAS, whose full name translates from French as "Assault Rifle from the Saint-Étienne Arms Factory," is a bullpup assault rifle developed and manufactured by the French company MAS, located in Saint-Étienne. It is widely used by the French military. In the game Global Offensive, the FAMAS is presented in the G1 variant with curved STANAG magazines, a feature characteristic of the FAMAS G2, as opposed to the original FAMAS F1 version in older game versions.
Within the game, the FAMAS stands out as an assault rifle available exclusively to Counter-Terrorist forces, offering one of the most budget-friendly options at $2050 in Global Offensive and $2250 in Counter-Strike, Condition Zero, and Source.
A unique feature of the FAMAS in the Counter-Strike series is its ability to switch between firing modes: full-auto and burst. This makes it, alongside the Glock-18, a unique weapon with this functionality. Players receive the weapon in automatic mode but can switch to burst mode and back again, with the switch accompanied by a distinctive sound signal audible to all participants.
The use of burst mode improves the rate of fire and accuracy while reducing recoil but introduces a delay between bursts.
Despite its unique characteristics, the FAMAS has some drawbacks, such as low damage and a smaller magazine capacity compared to other assault rifles, making it a preferred choice in economy rounds, while in regular combat situations, players often opt for more powerful weapons.
Usage Tactics
For close distances, automatic fire is recommended: aim for the enemy's head and fire, adjusting for recoil. At longer distances, some prefer to use automatic fire for a larger margin of error, though for increased accuracy, it's better to use single shots or short bursts. The burst mode is ideal for long distances due to its low recoil and increased first-shot accuracy.
Errors and Interesting Facts
Initially, in Counter-Strike: Source, the FAMAS was held similarly to the UMP-45. In the GoldSrc engine games, there was a glitch where purchasing ammo with the FAMAS for a few seconds would result in burst firing, although it did not cause any damage.
This weapon debuted in the first beta version of Counter-Strike 1.6, released on January 16, 2003. Interesting details in the modeling of the FAMAS in different game versions show changes, such as the use of different types of magazines and improvements in visual details in subsequent versions. One amusing detail is that the French army nicknamed this weapon "Le Clairon" ("The Bugle") due to its external resemblance to a musical instrument, which possibly influenced its name in the game series.
This rifle not only combines innovation and tradition in military arms art but also has its unique history and cultural significance. Among the many aspects that make the FAMAS a signature weapon, its appearance and functionality stand out among other assault rifles.
Interestingly, despite its uniqueness, the FAMAS maintains a modest place in the Counter-Terrorists' arsenal in Counter-Strike. Its availability and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal choice for rounds when funds are limited, but reliable and effective weaponry is necessary.
The features of using the FAMAS highlight the importance of strategy and skill in the game. Switching between firing modes not only adds depth to gameplay but also requires the player to understand when and how best to use each mode to maximize their effectiveness on the battlefield.
Additionally, the FAMAS has certain features that add a layer of tactical diversity to the game. Its ability to "knock back" opponents can be used to create strategic advantages, for example, to throw off a sniper's aim or to help a teammate gain a favorable position. These details make the FAMAS not just a weapon but a tool that, in the right hands, can influence the outcome of a match.
Finally, the FAMAS carries cultural heritage. Its nickname "Le Clairon" not only reflects its visual similarity to a musical instrument but also symbolizes a clear call to action, particularly relevant in the context of Counter-Strike, where every moment can be decisive.
In conclusion, the FAMAS is not only the weapon of choice for economy rounds but also a symbol of tactical diversity and strategic thinking, allowing players to demonstrate skill and creativity on the battlefield. Its history and features make it one of the most interesting and unique weapons in the Counter-Strike series.
FAMAS in numbers
- Alternate name Clarion 5.56
- Price $2050
- Purchasable by Counter-Terrorists
- Damage 30
- Armor penetration 70%
- Rate of fire 666 RPM (Auto) 800 RPM (Burst)
- Reload time 3.3 seconds
- Magazine capacity 25
- Reserve ammo limit 90
- Running speed (hammer units per second) 220
- Kill award $300 $150 (Casual)
- Penetration power 200
- Ammunition type 5.56 caliber
- Firing mode Automatic 3-round burst
- Range modifier 0.96
- Magazine cost $60
- Counterpart Galil AR
- Entity weapon_famas
