Like the best guns in Black Ops 6, you’ll need the best weapons in Stalker 2 to survive. In Heart of Chornobyl, survival is no easy task. Between deadly anomalies, booby traps, bandits, and irradiated mutants, the Exclusion Zone is full of dangers waiting to kill you. Whether it’s incoming gunfire or the claws of invisible Bloodsuckers, there are countless ways to meet an early end.
While the “best” weapon depends on your playstyle and resources, some guns stand out for their versatility, power, and reliability. Here’s a guide to the best weapons in Stalker 2 and how to get them.
Best Weapons in Stalker 2
Taking down Bloodsuckers, Poltergeists, and other threats with weak weapons is a nightmare. However, finding the right gear isn’t always easy. Many weapons are broken, expensive to repair, or lack sufficient ammo, which can also be costly. You’ll need to balance your needs, budget, and available ammunition. Your playstyle matters too, but some weapons are simply better than others. Below are the best weapons in Stalker 2, divided by category.
Best All-Around, Sniper, and Shotgun
| Weapon | Why It’s the Best | How to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| AKM-74S | A versatile, lightweight, and accurate assault rifle for mid-to-long-range combat. | Complete the “Warlock’s Debtor” side quest in Valissya to get Valik Lummox’s AKM-74S. |
| M701 Super | A heavy sniper rifle with incredible damage, perfect for one-shot kills at long range. | Found at Yaniv Station. |
| SPSA-14 | A powerful shotgun with high damage and a great rate of fire, ideal for close combat. | Found in stashes or as a random drop in the rougher areas beyond the Lesser Zone. |
AKM-74S (Best All-Around Pick)
The AKM-74S is one of the most reliable weapons in the game. It’s lightweight, stable, and accurate, making it perfect for both close-quarters combat and long-range sniping. Its ammo is also very common, so you won’t run out during critical moments. Whether you’re fighting in tight sewers or open fields, this gun adapts to any situation.
M701 Super (Best Sniper)
If you want to take out bandits or mutants from a distance, the M701 Super is your go-to sniper rifle. It’s incredibly powerful, capable of dropping enemies with one or two shots. While it has a smaller ammo capacity than some other snipers, its sheer damage makes up for it. It’s a great alternative to the VS Vintar.
SPSA-14 (Best Shotgun)
For close-range combat, the SPSA-14 is a beast. Its high rate of fire and damage make it perfect for taking down mutants like Bloodsuckers in seconds. However, it’s a bit heavy, so it’s not ideal if you’re trying to stay light. If you’re not a fan of the Saiga D-12, this shotgun is a fantastic alternative.
Best Handgun, Early Game, and Moddable Guns
| Weapon | Why It’s the Best | How to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Model Competitor | A powerful handgun with great damage, perfect for tight spaces and emergencies. | Found in the Yaniv stash after completing the “A Needle in a Haystack” quest. |
| Dnipro | A highly moddable assault rifle with great accuracy and armor penetration. | Found in a stash at the Cooling Towers. |
| Skif’s Pistol | A reliable starting pistol with common ammo and slow degradation. | You start the game with this weapon. |
Model Competitor (Best Handgun)
The Model Competitor is a top-tier handgun that excels in everything except range and clip size. It’s lightweight, powerful, and perfect for emergencies when you need a reliable sidearm. It’s also great for taking down tough mutants in tight spaces. You can find it in the Yaniv stash after completing the “A Needle in a Haystack” quest.
Dnipro (Best for Modding)
The Dnipro is a compact assault rifle that’s incredibly versatile. It can shred enemies at close range with full-auto fire or switch to single-fire for long-range precision. It also has excellent armor penetration, making it a deadly option even without mods. You can find the Dnipro in a stash at the Cooling Towers.
Skif’s Pistol (Best for Early Game)
Your starting pistol, Skif’s Pistol, may not be the strongest weapon, but it’s reliable. It degrades slowly, uses common ammo, and is perfect as a backup weapon. With a suppressor, it can even be used for stealth kills. While you’ll eventually want to upgrade, it’s a solid choice for the early game.
Honorable Mentions: Powerful but Situational Weapons
Some of the best weapons in Stalker 2 are incredibly powerful but harder to obtain or maintain. These include:
- Shah’s Mate: A high-damage weapon that’s great for late-game combat.
- Ram-2: A versatile rifle with excellent stats, but it’s rare.
- Drowned: One of the best assault rifles in the game, but it’s broken when you find it and requires expensive repairs.
While these weapons can turn the tide of any fight, they’re not always practical due to their cost or condition. However, if you’re willing to put in the effort, they’re worth adding to your arsenal.
The best weapons in Stalker 2 depend on your playstyle, but some guns stand out for their versatility, power, and reliability. Whether you’re sniping bandits from a distance, clearing out mutants up close, or looking for a reliable sidearm, there’s a weapon for every situation.
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