The AMAX, known in-game as the CR-56 AMAX, is back on top in Call Of Duty: Warzone and players are starting to realize it’s not just a nostalgia pick anymore. In a recent Warzone stream, popular content creator Santana boldly declared it “the best AR in the game,” claiming it’s now outclassing even the long-standing fan favorites like the Kilo and Growl.
And judging from the gameplay? He’s not lying.
Best AMAX class setup in Warzone right now
If you’re trying to compete in ranked, dominate in Resurgence or just stack high-kill wins with friends, this is the AMAX class you need to use. Santana shows off a build that makes the weapon an absolute laser. It’s perfect for mid-to long-range gunfights and shreds in close-range scenarios when paired with the right secondary.
Here’s the full AMAX build:
- Muzzle: Compensator
- Barrel: Gain Twist Barrel
- Optic: Volk Reflex Sight
- Underbarrel: Vertical Foregrip
- Ammunition: Extended Mag 1
- Rear Grip: Quick Draw Grip
- Stock: Infiltrator Stock
- Perk: Recoil Spring
If you want to play more stealthy, Santana mentions you can switch to the Monolithic Suppressor, which adds bullet velocity and makes you invisible on the minimap. But even he admits that he usually prefers the compensator for the added control.
The 45-round mag is the sweet spot. While the 60-round version is an option, he straight up says: “It just doesn’t hit the same.”
AMAX is now top tier in the AR meta
While the Growl still holds a special place for a lot of players, it’s getting pushed out of the spotlight. Santana admits, “Do I wish the Growl was a little bit better? Yes. But the AMAX is king.” The weapon hits harder, has better bullet registration, and with the recoil spring attached, the gun barely moves during sustained fire.
It’s especially noticeable in final circles where accuracy is key. Santana pulls off multiple clutch moments using the AMAX with minimal recoil, clean target tracking, and consistent time-to-kill.
He even goes as far as saying, “I’m hacking. That was crazy. You had to see that from my perspective,” after snapping on a player mid-air.
How it compares to Kilo and Growl
Let’s break it down side by side:
- Kilo 141: Easy to use, low recoil, but feels weaker in damage output compared to the AAX.
- Growl 5.56: Great iron sights and smooth recoil but lacks punch in this season.
- AMAX (CR-56): Fast TTK, laser-accurate with recoil springs, and versatile in every scenario.
What gives the AMAX the edge is the feel. Santana repeatedly emphasizes how smooth it plays with his setup. Even in the Gulag, where most people fumble under pressure, he beams enemies while casually talking to chat. There’s even a clip where he says, “Bro that AK is twerking,” but when he’s back with the AMAX, it’s pure dominance again.
This is one of the reasons more and more players are returning to older weapons like the AMAX. They’re realizing that the nostalgia guns aren’t just comfort picks — they still slap.
Small details matter: audio and feel
One underrated thing Santana mentions is how good the AMAX sounds. He says, “I’m glad they brought the exact sound back to the gun,” and you can tell he really means it. The original sound design of the CR-56 is something fans have loved since Modern Warfare, and now that it’s in Warzone again, it hits differently.
This also contributes to better shot control. You can hear the rhythm of your fire rate, and that helps keep your tracking clean during pressure moments.
Learn more about The AMAX loadout from Swagg on YouTube.
What mode is best for this AMAX build?
This loadout works across the board. Whether you’re playing:
- Battle Royale (trios or quads)
- Resurgence on Rebirth or Fortune’s Keep
- FUT Champs-style tournaments
- Ranked Warzone
It has the range, control, and kill-speed needed to be viable in all modes.
When Santana is holding rooftops in Superstore or wiping teams trying to push loadouts, he makes the AMAX look unfair. He even jokes, “Got to have the AMAX or else you’re losing that.” And he’s right — without a top-tier AR, most fights in Warzone’s current meta are one-sided.
For stat breakdowns and comparison tools for your own loadouts, you can check us out at CODIntel.
AMAX build handles pressure like no other
The final takeaway is how well the AMAX performs under stress. During a late-game situation, Santana tries to call in a Precision Airstrike but gets hit with the “airspace too crowded” bug. Still, even with poor timing and chaos around him, he pulls out the AMAX and drops multiple opponents to stay alive.
Moments like that are where guns get tested — and the AMAX keeps passing.
From 1v1s on rooftops to wiping full squads trying to third-party, the AMAX holds its own and feels like an extension of the player. That’s what you want in Warzone: something reliable, fast, and deadly.
FAQ: AMAX class in Warzone
What is the best AMAX setup right now?
Use Volk Reflex, Gain Twist Barrel, Compensator, and Recoil Spring.
Is the AMAX better than the Kilo 141?
Yes, it has faster TTK and better handling with recoil attachments.
Can I use the AMAX in Ranked mode?
Absolutely. It’s a top pick in Ranked and regular BR lobbies.
What ammo type should I use?
Go with Extended Mag 1 for best balance of speed and capacity.