Stalker 2 weapons tier list - ranking all guns
Screenshot by Prima Games

Stalker 2 Weapon Tier List: Best Guns Ranked

Locked, loaded, and ranked; here are the best and worst guns in Stalker 2!

Stalker 2 offers a wide variety of weapons to suit your playstyle, whether you prefer close-quarters combat, mid-range firefights, or long-range sniping. Each weapon has its own unique feel, handling characteristics, and damage output, making no two guns exactly alike.

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But with so many options available, which ones are worth keeping in your loadout? In this Stalker 2 weapon tier list, we’ll rank all the guns from best to worst, helping you decide which weapons to prioritize and which ones to discard or sell as you progress through the game.

RELATED:

All Common Weapons Ranked in Stalker 2

Defeating Pseudogiant in Just Business side quest in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
TiersWeapons
S-TierM701 Super, Rhino, Ram-2, Saiga D-12, Gauss Gun, Mark 1 EMR, Dnipro, Kharod, Zubr-19, APSB
A-TierSVU-MK S-3, SVDM-2, Integral-A, SPSA-14, GP37, VS Vintar, M860 Cracker, Fora-221
B-TierAR416, AKM-74S, Buket S-2, AS Lavina, Skif’s Pistol, Grom S-14, RPM-74, AKM-74U, Viper-5, M10 Gordon, UDP Compact
C-TierPTM, Toz-33, Boomstick, RPG-7U

S-Tier

M701 Super

M701 Stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight4.5 kg
Caliber.308
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability450
Damage160 dmg
DPS77
Efficiency21%
RPM29 rpm
Range500 m
Drop Off280 m
Accuracy 90%
Recoil1000
Fire ModeMANUAL
Magazine Size5

The M701 Super is one of the top sniper rifles in Stalker 2, making it an excellent choice for players who prefer eliminating threats from a distance. With its respectable magazine size and outstanding damage per shot, this rifle can take down hostile human NPCs with a single shot and requires only a few more rounds to deal with tougher mutants.

M701 Super in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

Obtaining the M701 Super is relatively straightforward compared to other weapons on this list. To find it, head to the rooftop of the Bread Factory, located just north of Yaniv Station. If exploring is not your thing, you can purchase the rifle from Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite.

Additionally, there is a chance the M701 Super may show up for sale at the Wreck Vendor in Yaniv Station. If it is not available right away, keep progressing through the story, and it will eventually appear for purchase.

Rhino

Rhino pistol in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight1.5 kg
Caliber9×39
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability450
Damage100 dmg
DPS264
Efficiency45%
RPM158 rpm
Range300 m
Drop Off80 m
Accuracy 83%
Recoil850
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size6

When it comes to pistols, few can match the firepower of the Rhino. This exceptional handgun can quickly dispatch even heavily armored enemies wearing exoskeletons. It is also highly effective against mutants like Controllers and Bloodsuckers, making it a valuable addition to your arsenal.

The easiest way to obtain the Rhino for free is by looting it from a crashed helicopter in Malachite. To find the helicopter, cross the Scorcher Checkpoint and follow the trail until you spot the wreckage. If you would rather skip the exploration, you can buy the Rhino from Arkhyp Lichen, a trader located at the Pile Driver point of interest in the Red Forest region.

You can also find another Rhino pistol from Market POI east from the Bread Factory in the Jupiter region. Free is always better than buying weapons by spending coupons.

Ram-2

RAM-2 stats
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3 kg
Caliber12″/70
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability525
Damage150 dmg
DPS300
Efficiency27%
RPM120 rpm
Range200 m
Drop Off70 m
Accuracy 48%
Recoil1900
Fire ModeManual
Magazine Size14

Shotguns are the most powerful weapons for close-quarters combat in Stalker 2, and the Ram-2 easily claims the top spot. This mid-to-late-game shotgun offers impressive range and firepower, but there are only a few ways to acquire it.

To get the Ram-2 for free, head to the Energiya Vehicle Station point of interest (POI) in the Malachite region. This is the first POI you will encounter after crossing the Malachite Checkpoint. Look for the building to the north of the station—inside, you will find the Ram-2 shotgun near a chest and some barrels.

If you would prefer to buy it, the Ram-2 is available from the Wreck Vendor in Yaniv Station. Additionally, a late-game vendor named Bison, located in the Prypiat region, also sells this shotgun. Depending on your progress, you can check with either vendor based on your location.

Saiga D-12

Nimble's Saiga D-12 shotgun
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.6 kg
Caliber12″/70
Gun Health2700 HP
Durability450
Damage140 dmg
DPS1400
Efficiency26%
RPM600 rpm
Range150 m
Drop Off50 m
Accuracy 39%
Recoil1800
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size8 / 12 / 20

While the Ram-2 is undoubtedly the best and most lethal shotgun, the Saiga D-12 is a close contender. One of its main advantages is that it becomes available much earlier in Stalker 2, allowing you to use it extensively before the Ram-2 becomes an option.

The earliest opportunity to obtain the Saiga D-12 is during the mission “In Search of a Guide” in the Zaton region. In this mission, Nimble, an NPC guide who previously helped Faust, drops the Saiga D-12 in a cutscene. You can pick up the gun afterward, but be aware that it will have low durability and will need repairs before use.

Nimble with Saiga D-12
Screenshot by Prima Games

Another free Saiga D-12 can be found near the Car Dump POI. The weapon is located on a platform above the area. To reach it, you will need to first go through an electric anomaly, so proceed cautiously.

If you would rather skip exploration, you can purchase the Saiga D-12 from Wreck, the vendor at Yaniv Station.

Gauss Gun

Gauss Gun in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight7 kg
CaliberCartridge
Gun Health3750 HP
Durability300
Damage500 dmg
DPS209
Efficiency13%
RPM25 rpm
Range1000 m
Drop Off1000 m
Accuracy 100%
Recoil500
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size10 / 20

The Gauss Gun is one of the most advanced sniper rifles in Stalker 2, outperforming nearly every other ranged weapon in the game. This single-shot powerhouse boasts an incredible 500 damage per shot, capable of one-shotting even the most heavily armored Monolith soldiers in the Jupiter and Prypiat regions.

However, the Gauss Gun’s biggest drawback is not its damage or range—it’s its limited accessibility. This is a late-game weapon that can only be acquired in the Prypiat region. You will find it inside the Prometheus Movie Theater while progressing through the “The Road to the Foundation” main mission.

Prometheaus Movie Theater Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

If waiting until late in the game is not appealing, you can unlock a less durable version of the Gauss Gun earlier by completing the “In the Name of Science” side mission. During this mission, make sure to disable the jammers. This action will extend the quest, and by the end, you’ll receive the Gauss Gun as a reward.

Another option is to obtain the Gauss Gun as a random drop from Monolith soldiers. These enemies have a chance to carry it, particularly during their assaults on Yaniv Station later in the game.

Mark 1 EMR

Mark 1 EMR Location in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight4.1 kg
Calibre.308
Gun Health1500 HP
Durability450
Damage55 dmg
DPS393
Efficiency9%
RPM429 rpm
Range350 m
Drop Off300 m
Accuracy 70%
Recoil700
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size10 / 20

It is no secret that sniper rifles are among the best weapons in Stalker 2, offering unmatched damage from long distances. For these reasons, the Mark 1 EMR is another excellent choice, and you can obtain it relatively early in the game.

To get a free Mark 1 EMR, head to the Army Warehouses, located south of the Chemical Plant region. Look for the middle watchtower in the area—this is where the rifle is located.

If you have not gained access to the Chemical Plant early or did not side with the Ward faction, you can still purchase the Mark 1 EMR from select vendors.

The Wreck Vendor at Yaniv Station has a chance to stock the Mark 1 EMR. Additionally, WO Komisarov, a vendor in the Cement Factory region, may offer it for sale. Be sure to check with both vendors if you are unable to find the rifle through exploration.

Dnipro

Dnipro stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight2.9 kg
Caliber5.45×39
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability1807
Damage23 dmg
DPS243
Efficiency12%
RPM632 rpm
Range300 m
Drop Off200 m
Accuracy 60%
Recoil242
Fire ModeAuto, Single
Magazine Size30 / 45

Assault rifles in Stalker 2 offer a great balance of power and a higher rate of fire compared to sniper rifles. The Dnipro, in particular, is a beast in close-quarters combat, especially when you are navigating tight spaces inside buildings and need to handle enemies at close to mid-range with ease.

What makes the Dnipro stand out is not just its firepower—it is also accessible mid-game and remains effective all the way through to the late game.

The first chance to obtain the Dnipro comes when you visit the South Cooling Tower point of interest (POI). Look for a unique fire whirl anomaly at this location—it will teleport you nearby and eventually take you to the top of the cooling tower. Once there, you will find the Dnipro rifle near a chest.

Lishchyna Facility location for Dnipro assault rifle in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

If you missed the Cooling Towers and progressed to the Red Forest through main missions, you can still get the Dnipro. Head to the Lishchyna Facility in the eastern part of the Red Forest to find the rifle waiting for you inside.

For players who prefer to skip exploration, the Dnipro can also be purchased from the Wreck Vendor at Yaniv Station, provided you have some spare coupons.

Kharod

Kharod weapon in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.3 kg
Calibre5.56×45
Gun Health2700 HP
Durability1534
Damage18 dmg
DPS212
Efficiency10%
RPM706 rpm
Range350 m
Drop Off250 m
Accuracy 84%
Recoil165
Fire ModeAuto, Single
Magazine Size30

For a slightly less powerful assault rifle with lower DPS than the Dnipro, the Khardo is an excellent alternative. It is a reliable mid-game weapon that can carry you through tough encounters in the Jupiter and Prypiat regions, particularly because of its effectiveness against armored targets.

To get the Khardo, visit the Trailer Dump POI, located north of the Yantar Production Complex. Look for a locker room near a riverside building and use the passcode 5578 to unlock it.

Another free Khardo can be looted at the Mobile Enterprise Building POI in the Jupiter region, an end-game location. To reach it, jump down through a hole in the garage roof, and you will find the rifle inside.

Lastly, you can always purchase Kharod from Wreck at Yaniv Station if the above-mentioned exploration options are too much for you.

Zubr-19

ZUBR-19 weapon in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight2.1 kg
Caliber9×19
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability1796
Damage20 dmg
DPS223
Efficiency18%
RPM667 rpm
Range250 m
Drop Off120 m
Accuracy 73%
Recoil176
Fire ModeAuto, Single
Magazine Size50 / 64

SMGs like the Zubr-19 are exceptional weapons in Stalker 2, particularly for taking down armored enemies or handling groups of mutants at close range. With its large magazine size, high rate of fire (RPM), and impressive damage, the Zubr-19 excels in situations where speed and firepower are essential.

It is a fantastic choice as a primary weapon when navigating hot zones with multiple hostiles, allowing you to clear threats quickly and efficiently.

You can find the Zubr-19 for free in two key locations during your playthrough. In the Chemical Plant region, if you side with the Ward faction early in the game, head northeast from the Pallet Warehouse POI. Inside a nearby warehouse with a door near a medic, you can unlock the door with the code 8506 to claim the Zubr-19.

Another opportunity to grab this SMG comes in the STC Malachite region. North of the X17 Lab POI lies the Brain Scorcher POI. Look for a box near a safe, which can be accessed by jumping across containers to enter the hangar.

APSB

APSB pistol stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight1.1 kg
Caliber9×18
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability630
Damage20 dmg
DPS236
Efficiency9%
RPM706 rpm
Range150 m
Drop Off80 m
Accuracy 63%
Recoil150
Fire Mode3B
Magazine Size18 / 30

If handguns are more your style, the APSB is an excellent option to consider after the Rhino. This pistol’s three-round burst fire makes it highly efficient in combat, often delivering a headshot with the third round when you aim at an enemy’s chest. This feature enables the APSB to take down unarmored enemies with a single burst, making it a lethal secondary weapon.

APSB pistol in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

There are a few ways to obtain the APSB pistol. In the Stechanka POI, southwest of the Promin CMD Factory, a free, 100%-durability APSB can be found sitting on a pallet on the roof.

Alternatively, you can explore the swamp area west of the Akhroprom Factory. In the underground section of this location, you will find a large safeguarded by two Controller mutants, and the APSB pistol will be inside the safe.

For players who prefer not to explore, the APSB can also be purchased from Arkhyp Lichen, a trader located in the Red Forest region. While exploration may demand time and resources, these weapons are worth the effort for any survivor seeking the best weapons for survival in Stalker 2.

A-Tier

SVU-MK S-3

SVU-MK S-3 Sniper Rifle Location in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight4.4 kg
Caliber7.62×54
Gun Health2700 HP
Durability270
Damage80 dmg
DPS800
Efficiency6%
RPM600 rpm
Range450 m
Drop Off350 m
Accuracy 84%
Recoil850
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size10 / 20

The SVU-MK S-3 is a versatile sniper rifle in Stalker 2 that stands out for its high rate of fire, making it an excellent choice for players who want to combine precision with rapid follow-up shots. While it does not deliver the same damage per bullet as top-tier sniper rifles of the S-tier we mentioned above, its higher RPM allows it to double as an alternative to an assault rifle, letting you quickly eliminate enemies with well-placed headshots before they even pinpoint your location.

To obtain the SVU-MK S-3 for free, head north of the Parking Lot POI to the Quarry, where you will spot a rusted crane. Climb to the top of this crane, and you will find the SVU-MK S-3 waiting to be looted.

SVU-MK S-3 Sniper Rifle Location door code in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

Another method is to unlock the door at the Lisovyi POI, located in the western part of the Yaniv Region. Use the code 240983 to open the door, which leads underground. Inside, you will find the SVU-MK S-3 ready for the taking.

SVDM-2

SVDM-2 Sniper Rifle Location in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight4.9 kg
Caliber7.62×54
Gun Health1950 HP
Durability270
Damage70 dmg
DPS700
Efficiency8%
RPM600 rpm
Range400 m
Drop Off320 m
Accuracy 75%
Recoil1000
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size10

SVDM-2 is another excellent single-firing sniper rifle that one should have in Stalker 2. The range, accuracy, and damage are the best parts of having this gun in your arsenal. Engaging enemies up close and personal is never a good idea, so SVDM-2 will help you nail the enemies down from mid- to long-range very easily.

There are several ways to obtain SVDM-2 for yourself and the first opportunity comes to you when you visit Rostok region. Just northeast of the Chystohalivka POI in Rostok, you will find a bunker hole with a rusted car and a few rocks. You will find SVDM-2 inside this hole in an open box.

You get another chance to get SVDM-2 for free in the Wild Islands region. You will find a cave between the Pontoon Depot and the Shelter POI. Go inside it and get the SVDM-2 sniper rifle for free.

Integral-A

INTEGRAL-A in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight2.7 kg
Caliber9×19
Gun Health2700 HP
Durability1174
Damage13 dmg
DPS217
Efficiency9%
RPM1000 rpm
Range250 m
Drop Off150 m
Accuracy 78%
Recoil155
Fire ModeAutomatic, 2 Bursts, Single
Magazine Size20 / 30

Integral-A is one of the best SMGs to have, especially in the early game when you have gained access to the Garbage or the Chemical Plant area in Stalker 2. Even though it has decent damage, recoil, and close-range accuracy, the best part about the weapon is its low weight.

Getting weight encumbrance is one of the problems in the early game but with Integral-A, you will hardly get the need to carry a heavy-weight gun with you; this one will do just fine.

There are not a lot of opportunities to get Integral-A for free. However, in the Cement Factory region near the Reloading Point, you will need to get into a hole in the wall found west end of the site. You will find Integral-A along with a few of its ammo on a rusted oil barrel.

You can always purchase the Integral-A from the Eugene vendor who is stationed in the Rostok, Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite, and Wreck at Yaniv Station. All of these vendors should have this gun in stock when you arrive at these bases of operations. If the gun is not available for purchase, progress the story and visit the vendor at a later stage.

SPSA-14

SPSA-14 stats
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight4.4 kg
Caliber12″/70
Gun Health2250 HP
Durability375
Damage140 dmg
DPS1400
Efficiency31%
RPM600 rpm
Range150 m
Drop Off50 m
Accuracy 35%
Recoil2200
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size8

Even though the SPSA-14 has more weight than the S-tier shotguns we mentioned above, the weapon compensates for its downside by giving multiple round types and excellent firepower. While you can use the standard shotgun rounds, this weapon can accommodate even the lethal version of shotgun bullets so you can survive even two Bloodsuckers easily with SPSA-14 in your hand.

Go west of the Yantar Production Complex in the Yantar region and you will find Scientist Bunker POI. After that, find the body of Oles Moor, on the roof of the Scientist Bunker and loot SPSA-14 from it.

Just like Integral-A, the SPSA-14 can also be bought from Wreck at Yaniv Station, Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite, and Eugene at Rostok Base. You should consider buying the option only if you have no better weapon in your inventory. Otherwise, this one will cost you 17000 Credits.

GP37

GP37 weapon stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.6 kg
Caliber5.56×45
Gun Health1950 HP
Durability1444
Damage16 dmg
DPS200
Efficiency14%
RPM750 rpm
Range350 m
Drop Off250 m
Accuracy 77%
Recoil180
Fire ModeAutomatic, 3 Bursts, Single
Magazine Size30 / 90

GP37 comes with three fire modes, a decent magazine size, and an excellent range that makes this assault rifle a jack of all trades. You can toggle the single fire mode and eliminate the enemies from mid to long-range as if it were a sniper rifle. Or, switch to burst mode and use it in close quarters, killing enemies like you are carrying a shotgun.

Church location to get GP37 in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

The easiest way to get the GP37 for free is to go to the Yantar Production Complex POI in the Yantar region. The eastern part of this POI has a series of rusted pipes that you need to climb using a ladder. This will connect you to the rooftop of another small building where you will find the GP37 near a duffle bag.

There are a few options for buying the GP37 assault rifle in Stalker 2 instead of searching for it in the wild. WO Komisarov at Cement Factory, and Eugene at Rostok Base should have this gun in stock when you visit them first.

VS Vintar

VS Vintar weapon in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.2 kg
Caliber9×39
Gun Health2250 HP
Durability1257
Damage35 dmg
DPS389
Efficiency21%
RPM667 rpm
Range220 m
Drop Off150 m
Accuracy 73%
Recoil216
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size10 / 20

Most sniper rifles in Stalker 2 do not come with a suppressor attachment, except for VS Vintar. The suppressed fire is very useful when eliminating human enemies as they’d have a hard time pinpointing your location. On the contrary, mutants such as Bloodsuckers or Controllers will smell you when you are medium to close range.

VS Vintar location in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

If you go northwest from the Roadside Shop POI in Zaton, you will arrive at a tunnel opening. A Chimera will also be inside this tunnel so it is really up to you to fight it first and get the gun or rush to the end of the tunnel, find and grab the VS Vintar with a few ammo near a skeleton on the bed, and run away.

If you have 21,000 Credits, you can buy a VS Vintar sniper rifle from Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite or Ragman at Rostok Base. Of course, this method will cost you a lot of money so only buy it if you really need a sniper rifle.

M860 Cracker

M860 Stats
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.2 kg
Caliber12″/70
Gun Health1950 HP
Durability453
Damage160 dmg
DPS160
Efficiency91%
RPM60 rpm
Range150 m
Drop Off50 m
Accuracy 38%
Recoil2500
Fire ModeManual
Magazine Size6 / 10

If there is one weapon that is popular in the Zone, then that’d be the M860 Cracker Shotgun. You will see a lot of enemy factions using this as their go-to gun in the game. That is because it is lighter than most shotguns, and has decent mag size, range, and damage.

The easiest way to get the M860 Cracker for free is by playing the story mission called ‘The Price Goes Up’. You will need to loot the backpack at the crane when the mission ends to get this shotgun for free.

You can buy the M860 Cracker for 8000 Credits in Stalker 2 from Wreck at Yaniv Station, Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachit, and Huron at Slag Heap. While this is not a super expensive weapon for the mid to late game, purchasing this from Huron in the early game will be costly.

Fora-221

Fora-221 stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.3 kg
Calibre5.45×39
Gun Health2250 HP
Durability1619
Damage17 dmg
DPS227
Efficiency18%
RPM800 rpm
Range300 m
Drop Off220 m
Accuracy 60%
Recoil198
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size30 / 40

The Fora-221 is an assault rifle that is very good at eliminating foes in close range and at medium as well if you use the single-fire mode. By default, the gun does not have an optics attachment so using it in automatic mode on the medium range will waste a lot of ammo due to lower accuracy.

You can get the Fora-221 for free by completing the Uninvited Guests side mission in the Cement Factory. Myrtkas will ask you to retrieve the gun that he lost while escaping two controllers. At the end of the mission, you will get the option to keep the Fora-221 or give it to Myrtkas. Select the keep option and the gun will be yours.

How to get Fora-221 in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

You can get a 100% durability Fora-221 in the Scientist Bunker of Yantar region. This is the same location where you find Oles Moor NPC’s body which also has an SPSA-14. This is west of the Yantar Production Complex.

B-Tier

AR416

AR416 weapon in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.7 kg
Caliber5.56×45
Gun Health1500 HP
Durability1 442
Damage16 dmg
DPS200
Efficiency16%
RPM750 rpm
Range300 m
Drop Off250 m
Accuracy 72%
Recoil180
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size30 / 50

AR416 is an average assault rifle that is good only for early to mid-game regions. Because it is so popular, you will find it on most enemies in the Garbage, Chemical Plant, and Lesser Zone regions. That is due to the fact that this weapon has a 300-meter range and a decent accuracy, enough to secure kills from medium range.

Central Checkpoint location for AR416 in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

To get the free AR416 for yourself, go southwest from the Bloodsucker Village POI in the Chemical Plant region. You will find a bus shelter with two bodies. Loot these and you will get the AR416 along with a Viper-5; both guns with red durability though.

You can buy the AR416 from Bison in Prypiat, Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite, WO Komisarov at Cement Factory, and Eugene at Rostok Base. The weapon is not cheap, even for early or mid-game and you will need 14,000 Credits to buy this assault rifle.

AKM-74S

Valik Lummox's AKM-74S weapon stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.3 kg
Caliber5.45×39
Gun Health1950 HP
Durability1625
Damage23 dmg
DPS230
Efficiency37%
RPM600 rpm
Range300 m
Drop Off200 m
Accuracy 53%
Recoil270
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size30 / 45

AKM-74S is another popular assault rifle in the early areas of Stalker 2 and you will often find hostile NPCs from various factions using it at you. Even though it has average accuracy, the weapon comes with a higher RPM and decent magazine size. This makes the AKM-74S a lethal weapon in close to mid-range combat.

How to Get Valik Lummox's AKM-74S in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

There are several ways to get the AKM-74S in Stalker 2 and none of them are convenient. For starters, in the Wild Island region, you need to go inside the house north of the Sawmill. The AKM-74S will be found on a table in the attic, which you can access by opening the window.

In the Mindscrew POI of the Cordon region, you will find three dead NPC bodies namely Private Izhenko, Private Lemarier, and Private Lepyk, inside a tunnel, each containing AKM-74S. One of these will have yellow durability and the other two will be in red.

Buket S-2

Buket S-2 Location in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight1.6 kg
Caliber9×18
Gun Health2250 HP
Durability1442
Damage23 dmg
DPS268
Efficiency28%
RPM698 rpm
Range200 m
Drop Off70 m
Accuracy 67%
Recoil200
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size20 / 30

For an early-game high RPM weapon, the Buket S-2 is not a bad choice at all in Stalker 2. Even though this gun is a submachine gun, it comes with dual firing mode options. On top of that, it has better accuracy than AKM-74s assault rifle, so landing headshots at medium range should be manageable.

The fastest way to get the Buket S-2 very early in the game is when you get access to the Garbage region. Go west from the Northern Checkpoint until you reach the Vehicle Graveyard POI. You will find a cave entrance north of it, which leads to a stash containing the Buket S-2 SMG.

There are a few vendors that sell the Buket S-2, such as Quiet’s Camp in Wild Island, WO Komisarov at Cement Factory, and Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite. Each vendor will sell this SMG to you for 12,000 Credits.

AS Lavina

AS Lavina weapon in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight2.5 kg
Caliber9×39
Gun Health2250 HP
Durability1257
Damage20 dmg
DPS223
Efficiency10%
RPM667 rpm
Range220 m
Drop Off150 m
Accuracy 73%
Recoil216
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size20 / 30

The AS Lavina is an assault rifle with an excellent rate of fire and impressive accuracy, offering decent range but lacking in raw damage per shot. However, damage isn’t the main reason to use the AS Lavina in Stalker 2. What truly sets this weapon apart is its preinstalled silencer, which elevates it to a solid B-tier gun in our rankings—without it, the AS Lavina would likely be stuck in C-tier.

The easiest way to obtain the AS Lavina is during the main mission “Just Like the Old Days.” Head to Quiet’s Camp, where you will find the rifle in the room where the Quiet vendor used to sit. The area will now be overrun, but you will spot the AS Lavina resting on a shelf among other weapons, just behind the vendor’s former seat.

If you miss it there, you can still purchase the AS Lavina from two vendors: Wreck at Yaniv Station and Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite. Both should have the weapon available for sale when you first approach them.

Skif’s Pistol

SKIF'S Pistol in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight0 kg
Caliber9×18
Gun Health1500 HP
DurabilityUNLIMITED
Damage30 dmg
DPS334
EfficiencyNA
RPM667 rpm
Range100 m
Drop Off80 m
Accuracy 65%
Recoil300
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size8 / 12

Skif’s Pistol is a variant of the PTM handgun, but it’s actually a much more powerful version of the standard model. This is the starting weapon you receive during the Prologue mission, “There and Back Again.”

For some reason, this pistol cannot be removed from your inventory. You can’t drop it, sell it, or trade it to vendors, meaning it becomes dead weight as you progress and acquire better handguns later in the game.

Although Skif’s Pistol doesn’t come with any preinstalled attachments, you can enhance its performance by equipping the High-Capacity PTM Magazine and Pistol Suppressor, making it an even more effective sidearm.

Grom S-14

Grom S-14 stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.2 kg
Caliber9×39
Gun Health2700 HP
Durability1534
Damage18 dmg
DPS212
Efficiency11%
RPM706 rpm
Range250 m
Drop Off80 m
Accuracy 70%
Recoil204
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size20 / 30 / 45

The Grom S-14 is an assault rifle that comes equipped with a built-in grenade launcher. However, this hybrid weapon isn’t exactly the best of both worlds. In fact, it’s underwhelming as both an assault rifle and a grenade launcher.

Its base damage is noticeably low for an assault rifle and is even weaker than the AS Lavina mentioned earlier. If you’re looking for raw firepower, this weapon won’t be your best option.

That said, if you still want to get the Grom S-14, we recommend obtaining it for free instead of purchasing it. To do this, complete the “Vadyk Firecracker” side mission in the Chemical Plant region. You’ll find Vadyk at the Bloodsucker Village POI, where he’ll task you with hunting down a Pseudo-Giant. If you successfully complete the mission, he’ll reward you with the Grom S-14 at no cost.

If you’d rather skip the hassle, you can also purchase the Grom S-14 from Wreck at Yaniv Station for 25,000 Credits.

RPM-74

RPM-74 machine gun in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight7.5 kg
Caliber7.62×39
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability2174
Damage20 dmg
DPS211
Efficiency14%
RPM632 rpm
Range300 m
Drop Off300 m
Accuracy 60%
Recoil450
Fire ModeAutomatic
Magazine Size150 / 250 / 300 / 500

Machine guns are a rare find in Stalker 2, and the RPM-74 is one of the few available. While it deals more damage than the Grom S-14 mentioned earlier, its real advantages lie in its superior armor penetration and significantly larger magazine capacity compared to most assault rifles in the game.

To obtain the RPM-74, head to Liisovyi in the westernmost part of the Yaniv region. There, you’ll find a building with a control panel near an underground room. Enter the code 240983 to unlock the door, and inside, you’ll find the RPM-74 lying on a few wooden crates near a wall.

AKM-74U

AKM-74U weapon in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight2.7 kg
Caliber5.45×39
Gun Health1650 HP
Durability1793
Damage19 dmg
DPS212
Efficiency57%
RPM667 rpm
Range200 m
Drop Off130 m
Accuracy 50%
Recoil203
Fire ModeAutomatic, Single
Magazine Size30

The AKM-74U is essentially a compact version of the legendary AK-74 assault rifle, but don’t let its smaller size fool you—it still delivers solid firepower. While it has the size and handling of an SMG, its penetration and damage output make it a highly effective weapon in the early-game areas of Stalker 2.

As one of the better starter weapons, the AKM-74U is a worthwhile purchase, especially since your options for firearms are limited early on. You can buy it for 6,000 Credits from Huron at Slag Heap or Hamster at Zalissya.

However, you do not necessarily have to spend money to get this weapon. Many early-game enemies, particularly ISPF soldiers, often drop the AKM-74U, but with red durability, when defeated. Instead of buying one, consider looting it from enemies and repairing it for a more cost-effective approach.

Viper-5

Viper-5 SMG in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight2.5 kg
Caliber9×19
Gun Health1125 HP
Durability1630
Damage19 dmg
DPS232
Efficiency103%
RPM732 rpm
Range200 m
Drop Off120 m
Accuracy 60%
Recoil148
Fire ModeAutomatic, 3 Bursts, Single
Magazine Size30 / 40

The Viper-5 is an SMG that performs similarly to an assault rifle—but that is not necessarily a good thing. Its only real strengths are its high rate of fire and decent accuracy. Beyond that, it struggles to land precise headshots, often forcing you to waste ammo on ineffective body shots when other weapons could do a better job.

However, the Viper-5 is one of the most common early-game weapons, frequently dropped by hostile NPCs. But, the looted versions often come in low durability, making them less reliable. If you would rather get one in better condition, you can buy it from Hamster at Zalissya or find it in Zhorik’s Stash—located inside a radioactive helicopter north of the Boiler House in the Lesser Zone region.

M10 Gordon

M10 Gordon stats in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight1.4 kg
Caliber.45
Gun Health1500 HP
Durability1079
Damage10 dmg
DPS212
Efficiency18%
RPM1 333 rpm
Range100 m
Drop Off90 m
Accuracy 40%
Recoil250
Fire ModeAutomatic
Magazine Size30 / 40

The M10 Gordon boasts one of the highest rates of fire in Stalker 2, but that’s about the only standout feature of this SMG. It suffers from low damage, short range, and poor accuracy, though its penetration power is decent. As a compact, pistol-sized SMG, it can be lethal in close-quarters combat, but at longer distances, it burns through ammo with little impact.

buying the M10 Gordon SMG in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games

You can get the M10 Gordon for free by stealing the stash near a pile of concrete blocks during the Budmo! side quest. If you haven’t used this SMG before, this is a great chance to try it out.

However, if you don’t want to interfere with the side quest’s progression, you can purchase it instead. Both Huron at Slag Heap and Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite sell the M10 Gordon for 5,700 Credits.

UDP Compact

UDP Compact pistol in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight0.72 kg
Caliber.45
Gun Health1500 HP
Durability455
Damage25 dmg
DPS313
Efficiency80%
RPM750 rpm
Range110 m
Drop Off110 m
Accuracy 78%
Recoil250
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size15 / 20

The UDP Compact stands out for its excellent accuracy, but beyond that, it is not an impressive weapon. While some players may appreciate its sleek blacked-out design and the satisfying sound it makes when fired—especially compared to the PTM handgun—this 15-round magazine pistol feels underwhelming in actual combat.

You can find the UDP Compact for free south of the Dire Thicket POI in the Lesser Zone, near a powerless automatic door. If you would rather purchase it instead, you will need to reach the Garbage region first, where Huron at Slag Heap will have it available for sale.

C-Tier

PTM

StatsValue
Weight0.5 kg
Caliber9×18
Gun Health1500 HP
Durability455
Damage30 dmg
DPS334
Efficiency144%
RPM667 rpm
Range100 m
Drop Off80 m
Accuracy 65%
Recoil300
Fire ModeSingle
Magazine Size8 / 12

The PTM is one of the easiest guns to acquire in Stalker 2, and that is really its only major advantage. It has the worst range among pistols, along with low penetration power and weak damage, making it a poor choice for most combat situations.

You will start seeing the PTM frequently by looting enemies in the Lesser Zone, Garbage, and Chemical Plant regions—some of the earliest areas in the game.

There is no reason to spend money on this pistol since it is so common. Just loot one for free and, if necessary, get it repaired at a Technician if you really want to keep a pistol in your loadout.

Toz-34

TOZ-34 weapon
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight3.1 kg
Caliber12″/70
Gun Health2250 HP
Durability600
Damage150 dmg
DPS300
Efficiency300%
RPM120 rpm
Range210 m
Drop Off70 m
Accuracy 44%
Recoil2200
Fire ModeManual
Magazine Size2

The Toz-34 is a double-barrel shotgun that delivers some of the highest damage among early-game weapons—but only at close range. Its biggest drawback is its two-round capacity, requiring a reload after every two shots, which can be risky in intense fights.

You can buy the Toz-34 from Hamster at Zalissya in the Lesser Zone, one of the first vendors in the game. However, if you want to save money instead of purchasing weapons early on, you can find one for free at the Levitating Silo POI in the Lesser Zone—inside the attic of a house there.

TOZ-34 weapon obtained
Screenshot by Prima Games

Alternatively, you can head southeast from Poppy Field in the Lesser Zone and loot a stash inside a cabin, where another Toz-34 is hidden.

Boomstick

Boomstick Stats
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight1.9 kg
Caliber12″/70
Gun Health2250 HP
Durability600
Damage150 dmg
DPS300
Efficiency529%
RPM120 rpm
Range100 m
Drop Off50 m
Accuracy 33%
Recoil2500
Fire ModeManual
Magazine Size2

The Boomstick is a miniature version of the Toz-34 but with an even shorter range. Despite its small size, this shotgun delivers devastating damage at close range, though that’s about the extent of its usefulness.

You can purchase the Boomstick from Hamster at Zalissya, or, if you’ve made it to the Garbage region, you can get it from Huron at Slag Heap.

If you’d rather not buy it, the Boomstick is also commonly dropped by hostile NPCs in the Lesser Zone, Chemical Plant, and Garbage regions.

RPG-7U

RPG-7U weapon in Stalker 2
Screenshot by Prima Games
StatsValue
Weight6.3 kg
CaliberPG-7V
Gun Health3000 HP
Durability45
Damage1400 dmg
DPSNA
Efficiency13%
RPMNA
Range1000 m
Drop Off1000 m
Accuracy 70%
Recoil70
Fire ModeManual
Magazine Size1

The RPG-7U is one of the heaviest and most impractical weapons in Stalker 2. Surprisingly, it can’t even take down a Pseudo-Giant mutant in a single shot, making it pretty much useless in your inventory. Finding ammo for it is a challenge too—it’s scattered across the map, and even if you do come across some, you’ll likely be encumbered by the time you pick it up.

Despite its long range, the RPG-7U’s impracticality makes it one of the least desirable weapons in the game. That’s why it sits at the very bottom of our Stalker 2 weapons tier list.

That’s all you need to know about the best and worst guns in Stalker 2. For more helpful tips about the game, be sure to check out our How to Find Artifacts, How to Make Money Fast, and Kill Shah or Roosevelt in King of the Hill Mission in Stalker 2 guides.


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Author
Image of Irfan Ansari
Irfan Ansari
Irfan Ansari is a Guides Writer at Prima Games, bringing seven years of experience in Video Game Journalism to the table. With over 20 years immersed in gaming, he's sharpened his craft at notable outlets like TheGamer, Gamepur, Videogamer, and eXputer. His favorite hobby is grinding for XP, leveling up and defeating bosses to pulp.