https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0Amnj8jnZLDIOdEx6azNNdVozRmxLVkI2WnZmS2NqV1E NC MAX damage per magazine has been given a double nerf. Anyone with dual Grinders or extended magazines will still be able to win a MAX duel at 5m. Everyone else no longer has enough damage per magazine to win at 5m with just body shots. You'll need to aim for headshots if you want a chance in a straight duel with VS or TR MAXs.
Thanks for the update. It's sad that I bought every VS Max weapon except for the Cosmos, and now I'm quite upset that my purchases are in no way better (and for the same $).