Three common choices show why one price or vague ranking is not enough.
01 Define the comparison
Community records list AK74 at $1,600, M4 at $2,800 and MP5 at $1,500. Classes and ammunition differ, so define expected distance, objective and unlock access first.
02 Use a consistent support kit
Pair each weapon with the same armor, helmet and medical gear. This isolates the base weapon difference in a budget comparison, but does not replace measured combat data.
03 See the opportunity cost
The M4 costs $1,200 more than AK74 and $1,300 more than MP5 in these records. That difference can support another deployment or other gear; value depends on role and in-game testing.
04 Leave unknown performance unknown
Without same-build measurements, do not invent damage, recoil or TTK rankings. Use the comparison tool to shortlist affordable options and test in game.
Put it into practice
Check equipment in the database, then calculate the full kit in the planner. Revisit official announcements when the build changes.
Specific questions to solve
Sources and scope
Gameplay is grounded in the official Steam page; prices use public community records as leads. This is an independently written player guide, not an official manual.
Steam Official announcements