AEK-973 vs M8A1
Black Ops 7 — Marksman Rifle vs Marksman Rifle · Side-by-side stats, TTK & damage profiles
At a Glance
Close TTK
Long TTK
ADS Speed
Bullet Vel.
Reload
Stat Overview
Stat Breakdown
AEK-973
M8A1Indigo bar = AEK-973 · Teal bar = M8A1 · Green number = better stat
Stat Comparison
| AEK-973 | Stat | M8A1 |
|---|---|---|
| 342 | RPM | 896 |
| 325 | ADS (ms) | 310 |
| 205ms | Sprint-to-Fire | 220ms |
| 860 m/s | Bullet Vel. | 850 m/s |
| 30 | Mag Size | 32 |
| 32 | Vert. Recoil | — |
| 3 | Reload (s) | 1.9 |
Green = better stat for that weapon.
TTK Comparison at 150 HP (chest shots)
| AEK-973 | Range | M8A1 |
|---|---|---|
| 526ms | 0–34.3m | 268ms |
| 702ms | 34.3–53.3m | 335ms |
| 702ms | 53.3m+ | 402ms |
Green = faster TTK. Assumes all shots connect.
TTK Comparison
When comparing the AEK-973 vs M8A1 in Black Ops 7, TTK is often the deciding factor. At close range, the M8A1 has the faster time-to-kill (268ms vs 526ms). That advantage carries through to longer ranges as well.
Handling and Mobility
Handling is where the AEK-973 and M8A1 often diverge most. The M8A1 has a faster ADS time at 310ms compared to 325ms for the AEK-973, giving it a reaction speed edge in gun fights. The M8A1 also reloads faster, which matters in sustained fights.
Range and Bullet Velocity
Bullet velocity directly impacts how much lead you need to apply at range. Both weapons have similar bullet velocities (860 m/s vs 850 m/s), so neither has a clear edge at distance. Combined with TTK data, the M8A1 is the stronger long-range pick.
Magazine and Reload
Magazine size affects how long you can stay in a fight without reloading. Both weapons carry roughly the same default ammo (30 vs 32 rounds). Extended mag attachments are available for both and are typically recommended in any meta build.
Choose AEK-973 if…
- ✓You prefer Marksman Rifle playstyle in Black Ops 7
Choose M8A1 if…
- ✓You need faster close-range TTK (268ms vs 526ms)
- ✓You engage at long range — M8A1 has the edge at 53.3m+
- ✓Faster ADS speed matters (310ms vs 325ms)
Which Weapon Should You Use?
The AEK-973 vs M8A1 comparison comes down to playstyle. Overall the M8A1 comes out ahead in more categories, making it the stronger choice for most players. The AEK-973 still has niche advantages worth considering depending on your setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the AEK-973 or M8A1 better in Black Ops 7?
The AEK-973 vs M8A1 comparison comes down to playstyle. Overall the M8A1 comes out ahead in more categories, making it the stronger choice for most players. The AEK-973 still has niche advantages worth considering depending on your setup.
What is the TTK of the AEK-973 vs M8A1?
At close range, the AEK-973 TTK is 526ms and the M8A1 TTK is 268ms (150 HP, chest shots). The M8A1 is faster.
Which has better ADS speed — AEK-973 or M8A1?
The M8A1 is faster at 310ms ADS.
More Comparisons
More Marksman Rifle comparisons with AEK-973: