Welcome to the unforgiving world of ARC Raiders, where your weapon choice can mean the difference between successful extraction and becoming another casualty on the battlefield. With a diverse arsenal ranging from devastating hand cannons to precise assault rifles, understanding which weapons excel in different scenarios is crucial for survival topside.
Whether you're a newcomer preparing for your first expedition or a seasoned raider looking to optimize your loadout, this comprehensive tier list will transform how you approach combat encounters. We've analyzed every weapon's damage output, versatility, and practical application to give you the tactical edge you need.
Understanding Our Weapon Classification System
Our tier system evaluates weapons across five critical factors that determine battlefield effectiveness. Lethality measures raw damage potential against both ARC machines and rival raiders. Ease of Use considers how accessible each weapon is for players of different skill levels. Versatility examines performance across various ranges and combat scenarios. Availability factors in how easily you can acquire or craft each weapon, while Ammo Efficiency considers resource management in this extraction shooter environment.
Important
Weapon upgrades significantly impact performance. A Level III Rattler performs dramatically differently than its base version, so consider upgrade potential when making loadout decisions.
ARC Raiders Bobcat guide - Dexerto
S-Tier: Battlefield Dominators
Anvil Hand Cannon
The Anvil stands as the undisputed king of close to mid-range combat. This revolver-style powerhouse delivers devastating per-shot damage that can drop enemies in just a few well-placed hits. During extensive testing, the Anvil consistently proved its worth in clutch moments where precision matters more than fire rate.
Key Strengths:
- Exceptional damage per shot
- Manageable recoil pattern
- Reliable against both ARC units and players
- Available from Trader Tian Wen or craftable with mid-tier materials
Optimal Usage: Pair with a shield for survivability and use Lure Grenades to control ARC positioning while you line up shots. Focus on headshots to maximize the devastating damage potential.
Rattler Assault Rifle
The Rattler offers the perfect balance of firepower and accessibility. Its fully automatic fire mode and 10-round magazine make it incredibly versatile for both newcomers and veterans. The weapon excels in sustained firefights, whether you're clearing swarms of Ticks or suppressing rival raiders at extraction points.
Combat Applications:
- Superior for mid-range engagements
- Excellent against grouped enemies
- Fast fire rate compensates for moderate damage
- Common availability at military checkpoints
Tip
Manage your ammunition carefully with the Rattler. The 10-round magazine depletes quickly during intense firefights, so prioritize crafting medium ammo reserves.
A-Tier: Reliable Performers
Kettle Semi-Automatic Rifle
The Kettle rewards skilled players with precision-based gameplay. Its 20-round magazine and semi-automatic fire deliver superior ammo efficiency compared to full-auto weapons, while maintaining excellent accuracy at longer ranges.
Tactical Advantages:
- Enhanced long-range accuracy
- Better ammo conservation
- Effective against cautious players
- Ideal for mobile playstyles
Vulcano Semi-Auto Shotgun
Close-quarters combat reaches new heights with the Vulcano. This semi-automatic shotgun delivers crushing damage in tight spaces, making it perfect for ambushing raiders in tunnels or urban environments like the Buried City.
Strategic Considerations:
- Devastating close-range damage
- Semi-auto fire allows quick follow-ups
- Limited by range restrictions
- Struggles against heavily armored ARC units
Bobcat Submachine Gun
The Bobcat excels in fast-paced, aggressive playstyles. Its high rate of fire makes it exceptional for overwhelming unprepared enemies or clearing weaker ARC units like Wasps. However, its low damage per shot requires sustained fire to be effective.
B-Tier: Situational Specialists
B-tier Weapons lists:
Ferro Break-Action Rifle
The Ferro serves as an excellent anti-ARC weapon, particularly effective against larger units like Bastions. Its high single-shot damage makes it valuable as a secondary weapon, though the slow reload limits its player-versus-player effectiveness.
Warning
Avoid engaging multiple targets with the Ferro due to its single-shot nature and lengthy reload animation.
Upgrade Weapons And Items In Arc Raiders
C-Tier: Limited Applications
Burletta Pistol
While the Burletta offers decent fire rate, it's quickly outclassed by superior options like the Anvil. Consider it only as a starter weapon or emergency backup when primary ammo runs dry.
Hairpin Bolt-Action Pistol
The Hairpin's bolt-action mechanism creates awkward handling that rarely justifies its damage output. It's a niche choice for players who enjoy high-risk gameplay but generally impractical for most situations.
D-Tier: Avoid When Possible
Equalizer Energy Weapon
Despite its futuristic appeal, the Equalizer suffers from excessive ammo consumption and inconsistent damage output. Save your resources for more reliable alternatives.
Il Torro Pump-Action Shotgun
The Il Torro's slow pump-action fire rate makes it inferior to the Vulcano in virtually every scenario. Switch to better shotgun options as soon as possible.
Optimal Loadout Configurations
Beginner Setup:
- Primary: Rattler (versatile, forgiving)
- Secondary: Anvil (high damage backup)
- Support: Shield + Lure Grenade
Aggressive Playstyle:
- Primary: Vulcano (close-range dominance)
- Secondary: Bobcat (sustained fire)
- Support: Shield + Explosive Grenade
Stealth/Precision Build:
- Primary: Kettle (long-range accuracy)
- Secondary: Ferro (anti-ARC capability)
- Support: Shield + Motion Sensor
ARC Raiders guide: 12 tips to help you ...
Advanced Weapon Mastery Tips
Crafting Priority: Focus on upgrading your weapon crafting bench early. Higher-tier blueprints and weapon stat improvements can transform even basic weapons into formidable tools.
Ammo Management: Different weapons use specific ammo types (light, medium, heavy, shotgun). Always carry sufficient reserves for your primary weapon and utilize safe pockets for rare ammunition.
Skill Tree Synergy: Invest in Mobility tree skills like Marathon Runner and Effortless Roll to maximize weapon effectiveness through superior positioning and stamina management.
Pro Tip: Scavenge military checkpoints and high-loot areas for weapons like the Rattler and Bobcat. Avoid engaging powerful ARC units unless you're equipped with high-damage weapons.
Map-Specific Weapon Considerations
Different maps favor different weapon types. Open areas like the Dam benefit from longer-range weapons like the Kettle, while urban environments favor close-quarters options like the Vulcano. Consider map modifiers when selecting your loadout - Night Raid increases ARC presence, making anti-ARC weapons more valuable.
Essential Upgrade Materials:
- Wasp Drivers and Rusted Tools for gunsmith upgrades
- Mechanical Components for advanced weapon crafting
- Tick Pods for medical station improvements
Upgrade Weapons And Items In Arc Raiders
Your weapon choice shapes every expedition's outcome. Master these tier rankings, understand each weapon's strengths and limitations, and adapt your loadout to match your objectives. Remember, the best weapon is the one that keeps you alive long enough to extract successfully.
Whether you're engaging rival raiders or surviving ARC encounters, this tier list provides the foundation for tactical superiority. Practice with different combinations, upgrade your favorites, and develop the weapon mastery that transforms good raiders into legendary survivors.
For more Arc Raiders, check out our Skills Tier List.