Arc Raiders Early Weapon Recommendations and Beginner Tips

Introduction to Arc Raiders and Early Weapon Picks

Arc Raiders is a third-person tactical PvPvE game, where players fight against alien robots known as ARC while scavenging for resources. As with any survival game, having the right weapons early on can be the key to surviving and progressing. In this guide, we'll explore the best early weapons in Arc Raiders, along with some tips to help you get a head start in the game.

5 Best Early Weapons for Beginners in Arc Raiders

In Arc Raiders, weapon upgrades don't increase the bullet damage, but rather improve the gun's performance stats, especially the reloading speed. During the early stages of the game, the green gun parts required for upgrades can be obtained by defeating wasp-like robots.

Here are the five weapons you'll want to craft early in the game:

1. Ironclad (T0) - The Heavy Hitter

The Ironclad is a break-action rifle and the only heavy-bullet weapon available early in the game. Its damage output is substantial, making each shot count. While the reloading speed is slow at first, upgrading it to at least level 3 makes it much more manageable. Whether you're hunting ARC or sniping, the Ironclad is a solid pick. This weapon is highly recommended for its low resource cost and strong utility in the field, especially for hunting ARC and earning loot.

2. Sewer Stitcher (T1) - Close-Range Companion

This submachine gun has a high rate of fire but poor stability. With a few upgrades and modifications, such as improving its stability and expanding the magazine, it can become a great tool for close-range combat. It's perfect for taking down raiders quickly in CQB (close-quarter battles). However, be mindful of your ammo, as the rapid-fire nature can deplete your supply fast.

3. Rattler (T2) - Balanced Assault Rifle

The Rattler is a solid choice for medium-range combat. It has average damage and performance but suffers from slow reload speeds. It works fine against both ARC and other players, but if you don't eliminate the enemy with a full magazine, you'll likely run into trouble. Upgrades will improve its reload capacity, with the level 3 upgrade allowing you to carry 18 rounds. However, the cost of upgrading is a bit high in terms of resource investment. Nonetheless, it has a cool look.

4. Kettle (T3) - The Tactical Assault Rifle

The Kettle is an assault rifle disguised as a submachine gun. While it has a slower rate of fire, its stability is excellent, making it easy to pin down enemies. However, its short range can be problematic if you encounter aggressive players rushing in for close combat or sniper duels at range. Its long reload time also adds a layer of difficulty. It's best suited for players who prefer keeping their distance and circling around enemies.

5. Silenced Pistol (T4) - Stealth Mode

The silenced pistol is a single-action handgun ideal for stealth gameplay. It's perfect for sneaky scavenging, but less useful in direct combat. You can use it to take out a few enemies quietly, then switch to another weapon when things get loud. If you're looking to stay hidden while looting, this weapon should be part of your toolkit.

First-Time Player Tips for Arc Raiders

Arc Raiders is a PvPvE game where players are thrust into a post-apocalyptic world dominated by alien robots (ARC). The humans are forced to hide underground and send raiders to the surface to scavenge resources. As a raider, you'll face other players, all while trying to secure vital resources.

Key Tips to Enhance Your Gameplay:

Early Stage Handgun Tip

Early in the game, you'll be given a handgun. If you're about to break into an iron door, leave it nearby and come back for it later to save on space.

Sound is Key

The game relies heavily on sound cues. Invest in a quality headset to better distinguish the sound of gunfire and footsteps, as the audio system in Arc Raiders is exceptional. The sound of gunshots and footsteps changes depending on your environment—indoors and outdoors will sound different.

Game Mechanics

Each session lasts 30 minutes, and you can determine how long a session has been ongoing based on the time displayed at your extraction point. If players return early or are defeated, they may be replaced by others entering the match. As the session progresses, fewer players remain, so expect more intense confrontations as the game nears its end.

Leveling Up Your Character

Your character earns experience for every action—opening boxes, killing ARC, or eliminating other players. At the beginning, it's better to focus on resource exploration rather than camping and hunting other players. This helps you level up your character more quickly.

Free Gear

The game provides free gear, including basic weapons and supplies. If you're low on resources and don't have medkits or chargers, you can rely on the free gear to help you get by. After a successful escape with free gear, you can visit the robot store to exchange it for standard gear.

Keep an Open Mind

Arc Raiders can be challenging, especially in the early stages. Even if you lose, the experience and resources gained are still valuable. Keep exploring, and your character will continue to grow stronger.

When Your Bag is Full, It's Time to Go

Follow the mantra "close enough, then head back" from games like Escape from Tarkov—when your inventory is full, it's time to leave.

Conclusion

In Arc Raiders, the early stages are crucial for setting yourself up for success. Understanding which weapons to focus on and how to use them effectively can make a huge difference in your survival. Combine this knowledge with smart resource management, strong awareness, and steady progress, and you'll soon be a seasoned raider ready to take on the ARC and other players.