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Even with thousands of hours spent in-game and a huge base of knowledge and accumulated experience, it can be hard to remember what weapon to use in Escape from Tarkov, and why. This guide is not only for beginners, it will be useful for everyone. In this Tarkov weapon tier list 2025, we will analyze the worst and best Escape from Tarkov guns, their pros and cons, as well as their price in a handy tier list.

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Escape from Tarkov Weapon Tier List

Escape From Tarkov Best Weapons

In this Tarkov gun tier list, we will break down in detail the best guns in Escape from Tarkov (S and A tiers, along with the most useful picks from B and C tiers) based on our own experience and current Escape from Tarkov 1.0 post-release meta. In the release version of Escape from Tarkov, access to many weapons is still limited by traders, progression, and early 1.0 economy changes. Because of that, every gun in this tier list was picked not only for raw power, but for how practical it is to obtain and run in raids during the current live version of the game.

TierWeapons
S-TierAUG A3, DT MDR 7.62×51, SA-58, MK47 Mutant, HK 416A5, .300 Blackout MCX, SR-1MP Gyurza
A-TierAUG A1, SIG MCX SPEAR, FN40GL, M32A1, ADAR 2-15, TX-15 DML, SKS, OP-SKS
B-TierVector 9×19, Vector 45, MPX, PP-19-01 Vityaz-SN, MP5, P90, MP7A2, MP7A1, SCAR-H, SCAR-L, AS VAL, VSS Vintorez, AKS-74UB, DT MDR 5.56×45, Ash-12, SAG AK, SAG AK Short, HK G36, PKP, PKM, SVDS, Sako TRG M10, AK-50, Ash-12 12.7×55 Assault Rifle, Saiga 12ga ver.10 12/76 Semi-Automatic Shotgun, Kel-Tec RFB 7.62×51 Rifle, Kalashnikov AKM 7.62×39 Assault Rifle, Colt M1911A1 .45 ACP Pistol, FN Five-seveN MK2 5.7×28
C-TierGlock 18C, FN 5-7, Rsh-12, AXMC, Mk 18, Saiga-12, M3 Super 90m, MP-155, VSK-94, 9A-91, SR-2M, VPO-101, M1A, RFB, RD-704, AK-103, AKMN, AKMS, AKMSN, SVT-40, AVT-40, VPO-136, MP-9, MP9-N, STM-9, M4A1, AK-74, AK-74N, AK-74M, AKS-74, AKS-74N, AKS-74UB, AKS-74U, AK-105, KS-23M, AK-101, AK-102, AK-104, RSASS, HK G28, RPDN, HK UMP.45 ACP, Desert Tech MDR 5.56×45 Assault Rifle, MP-153 12ga Semi-Automatic Shotgun, PPSh-41 7.62×25 Submachine Gun, TOZ KS-23M 23x75mm Pump-Action Shotgun, Rifle Dynamics RD-704 7.62×39 Assault Rifle
D-TierUSP-45, M45A1, M1911A1, Glock 17, Glock 19x, P226R, M9A3, MP-443, PL-15, M700, VPO-215, SV-98, T-5000, Mosin (Sniper), Mosin (Infantry), DVL-10, MP-18, UMP-45, MP5-K, PP-91-01 “Kedr-B”, PP-9 “Klin”, PP-91 “Kedr”, PPSh-41, RPK-16, Saiga-9, VPO-209
F-TierMP-43 sawed off, APB, APS, MP-43-1C, PB pistol, PM, CR 200DS, CR 50DS, TT, MP-133, M590A1, M870, TOZ-106, MTs-255-12

Need a smoother start in Tarkov 1.0? The Tarkov Starter Pack sets you up with solid gear, early trader access, and a decent stash to help you test out top-tier weapons without the early-game grind.

S-tier

In this S-tier Escape from Tarkov Guns section, we have highlighted the absolutely useful weapons in Escape from Tarkov in the release version wipe as objectively as possible. With these Tarkov meta guns, you can be confident in every step and every shot you make.

AUG A3

Why AUG A3 is good:

  • Ammo: 5.56×45 (M855A1, M995)
  • Source: Barter trades, military loot, and event rewards
  • Use case: Close to mid-range fights, easy setup

The AUG A3 is one of the best weapons in Escape from Tarkov right now, especially during the release in EFT, where modding options are limited and raw usability matters. This rifle shoots smoothly, has low recoil, and barely needs any attachments to be raid-ready.

Even in stock form, it competes with much more expensive builds. Add a simple optic and a suppressor, and you’ve got a fast, reliable solution for dorms, hallways, and open angles. Its consistent recoil and handling make it a smart pick for players who want power without complexity.

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DT MDR 7.62×51

Why DT MDR 7.62×51 is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×51 (M80, M62)
  • Source: Barter from Peacekeeper LL3, military loot, Labs raiders
  • Use case: Universal PvP gun, effective at all ranges

This weapon sets the gold standard for meta Tarkov guns in the current patch. The MDR 7.62 combines power, recoil control, and flexibility like no other rifle. Even without attachments, it performs at the highest level in all kinds of PvP — from factory hallways to long-range peaks.

You’ll need to loot military zones or complete a barter at Peacekeeper LL3. But if you manage to equip one, it can carry you through entire raids without breaking a sweat. That’s why it’s easily one of the best weapons in Escape from Tarkov today.

MK47 Mutant

Why MK47 Mutant is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×39 (BP)
  • Source: Barter from Mechanic LL4, rare boss loot
  • Use case: Semi/full-auto fire, mod-heavy PvP builds

The MK47 Mutant is a beast of a rifle. It hits hard, runs smoothly, and can be customized to suit any playstyle. With 7.62×39 BP ammo, it drops most enemies in 1–2 shots to the chest. Add to that nearly unmatched recoil control with the right mods, and you’ve got one of the most lethal guns in Tarkov.

It’s barter-only at Mechanic LL4, and many parts are scattered across high-tier loot zones. You won’t see it early wipe unless you’re lucky or pushing boss routes. Still, for late-game players with access to mods and ammo, it’s one of the best weapons in EFT, period.

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SA-58

Why SA-58 is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×51 (M80, M62)
  • Source: Rare drop from raiders, military crates, barter
  • Use case: Mid-to-long range fights, tap or burst fire

The SA-58 is one of the most brutal rifles in Escape from Tarkov. It fires high-damage 7.62×51 rounds, handles surprisingly well in semi-auto, and allows for a wide range of builds — from short-barrel CQB setups to long-range DMRs. When you need to shut down enemies fast, this gun delivers.

In the EfT 1.0, getting one takes work. It’s no longer something you can just buy. You’ll need to loot military zones, trade through complex barters, or take it off enemy PMCs. But if you pull it off, the SA-58 becomes one of the best weapons in Escape from Tarkov for any mid or late-game raid. With proper ammo, it’s a two-shot monster.

.300 Blackout MCX

Why the .300 Blackout MCX is good:

  • Ammo: .300 Blackout (AP, Subsonic)
  • Source: Barter only, found in high-tier loot zones
  • Use case: Stealth flanks, close-quarters PvP

The .300 MCX brings pure aggression to tight maps. With its high fire rate and low recoil, it deletes targets fast, especially when loaded with subsonic or AP rounds. It’s also a strong pick for suppressor builds thanks to the ammo’s naturally low sound profile.

With trader access being tighter in the EfT release version and the Flea Market still restricted, this weapon isn’t always easy to get, which makes it feel more like a raid find than a regular loadout piece. That said, if you loot one or pull off a successful barter, it becomes a deadly alternative to more expensive rifles, particularly when you’re playing aggressively and don’t want to be heard coming.

HK 416A5

Why HK 416A5 is good:

  • Ammo: 5.56×45 (M855A1, M995)
  • Source: Barter at Mechanic LL4, found in boss loot
  • Use case: Versatile builds, full-auto control, long raids

The HK 416A5 is what you pick when you want your gun to do everything: laser recoil, fast cyclic rate, and full mod support. With the right attachments and ammo, this rifle melts opponents in close quarters or holds angles with ease.

In the release version of EFT, getting your hands on this rifle isn’t always simple — the barters cost a lot, and bosses don’t drop it very often. But if you manage to build or loot one, it’s one of the few 5.56 guns that still feel premium under tight restrictions. Just be ready to spend serious rubles or time gearing it up.

Serdyukov SR-1MP Gyurza 9×21 Pistol

Why SR-1MP Gyurza is good:

  • Ammo: 9x21mm BT / SP13
  • Where to get: Prapor LL2, Scav loot, barters

If you’re looking for a reliable pistol that can kill geared players, the SR-1MP (aka “Shrimp”) is your best friend in this wipe. Forget meme guns — this thing punches above its weight when loaded with the right rounds. It doesn’t need modding, it fits in the pistol slot, and it handles class 4–5 armor better than most budget SMGs.

What makes Gyurza shine in Escape from Tarkov 1.0 is how available and effective it is compared to the price. Whether you’re backing up a Mosin or going full budget run, this is one of the best guns in EFT for surviving when money is tight.

A-tier

A-tier Escape from Tarkov weapons might not hit S-tier status, but they’re still among the best guns in Escape from Tarkov, especially now. During the post-release in EFT, not every player can get top-tier loot or access powerful barters early on. That’s where A-tier shines — it includes solid, consistent weapons that are easier to find, mod, or use straight from a raid.

AUG A1

Why AUG A1 is good:

  • Ammo: 5.56×45 (M855, M855A1)
  • Source: Barter trades, raider drops, high-tier crates
  • Use case: Budget mid-range rifle with smooth recoil

The AUG A1 is one of the easiest rifles to trust in Escape from Tarkov 1.0. It shares many of the strengths of the A3 version — low recoil, decent base stats, and minimal need for attachments. You can throw on a holo and be raid-ready in seconds.

The problem with this weapon is ammo dependency. Without M855A1 ammo or better, damage can feel underwhelming against armored targets. Still, the A1 is easier to find through barters or raiders than some other rifles, and it’s one of the best weapons in Escape from Tarkov for players who want reliable performance with low setup time.

SIG SPEAR

Why SIG SPEAR is good:

  • Ammo: .277 Fury (Hybrid AP, FMJ)
  • Source: High-tier barters, rare drops from bosses, or military zones
  • Use case: Aggressive CQB and close-range flanks

The SIG SPEAR is a powerhouse in close quarters. It dumps high-penetration ammo with brutal fire rate, making it ideal for pushing rooms or fighting geared enemies face-to-face. It’s also one of the few guns in Tarkov that can break through class 5–6 armor with just a few shots, even in burst mode.

But it comes with a price. During the post-release in Escape from Tarkov, this gun is one of the hardest to get. It doesn’t appear in shop inventories and is locked behind endgame barters or event loot. That means it’s not a gun you’ll see often, but when you do, it’s game-changing. It’s one of the best weapons in EFT if you’re already geared and looking for maximum damage output in short-range fights.

FN40GL

Why FN40GL is good:

  • Ammo: 40mm grenade rounds (HE, smoke)
  • Source: Rare boss drops, event rewards
  • Use case: Clearing rooms, stair control, suppressing movement

The FN40GL isn’t your go-to weapon for every raid, but during the release in Escape from Tarkov, it shines in very specific scenarios. When you’re pushing dorms, defending a hallway, or breaking up squads in close quarters, this launcher turns the tide. It’s one of the few weapons that can deny space and panic groups in an instant.

That said, it’s not easy to get. No trader sells it. No craft exists. You’ll need to find one from a boss or through rare event loot. It’s not a daily driver, but when used right, it’s easily among the best weapons in Escape from Tarkov for area denial and pressure.

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M32A1

Why M32A1 is good:

  • Ammo: 40mm grenade rounds (HE, flash, smoke)
  • Source: Bosses, high-value loot zones, events
  • Use case: Multi-room clearing, suppressive fire, ambushes

The M32A1 grenade launcher is all about overwhelming force. With six grenade shots loaded and ready, you can break defenses, stall pushes, and ruin squads stacked in buildings. It’s perfect for raiders who specialize in map knowledge and flanking key indoor areas like Labs or Reserve bunkers.

But there’s a tradeoff — the launcher is bulky, slow to reload, and nearly impossible to restock during a raid. You won’t use it daily, especially with loot drops being stingier in the current wipe. Still, if you manage to find one and know when to strike, it’s one of the scariest tools in any PvP kit.

ADAR 2-15

Why ADAR 2-15 is good:

  • Ammo: 5.56×45 (M855, M855A1)
  • Source: Trader barter (Skier LL2), early raid loot
  • Use case: Head-tapping, safe budget loadouts

The ADAR 2-15 is your classic semi-auto rifle — nothing flashy, but reliable and clean. It’s easy to loot, cheap to run, and needs almost no attachments to be effective. With just a red dot and decent ammo, this gun can one-tap unarmored targets and consistently win early-game fights.

In the release version of Tarkov, where many players can’t always afford full-auto rifles or heavily modded builds, the ADAR stands out as a reliable pick for anyone who prefers controlled, smart engagements. Aim high, stay patient, and this rifle will carry you further than it has any right to.

TX-15 DML

Why TX-15 DML is good:

  • Ammo: 5.56×45 (M855A1, M995)
  • Source: Barter from Peacekeeper LL3, rare drops
  • Use case: Semi-auto DMR play, long-range angles

The TX-15 DML rewards careful shooters. With flat recoil, solid handling, and compatibility with top-tier 5.56 rounds, it feels like a laser pointer in the right hands. You won’t be spraying with this rifle — instead, you’ll take smart fights, drop targets with a few taps, and back out safely.

In the release version of Escape from Tarkov, this isn’t a rifle you’ll bring into every raid. But when you loot one or manage the barter, this is one of the cleanest rifles for open spaces, questing, or reserve sniping. It’s also way more efficient on ammo than most auto rifles, which matters now more than ever.

SKS

Why SKS is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×39 (PS, BP)
  • Source: Looted early, barterable, scav loadouts
  • Use case: Early wipe PvP, mid-range tapping, budget DMR

The SKS is the kind of weapon that never really goes out of style. It’s accurate, hits hard with 7.62×39, and stays dirt cheap — a combination that matters a lot in the current release version of Escape from Tarkov. While other weapons struggle to mod or find ammo, SKS users are already two-tapping enemies and moving on.

It can’t take fancy optics out of the box and reloads slower than modern rifles, but it’s dependable. Load BP rounds, stick to semi-auto discipline, and you’ll find this old-school rifle outperforming much more expensive builds. Definitely one of the best budget guns in EFT this wipe.

OP-SKS

Why OP-SKS is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×39 (PS, BP)
  • Source: Trader barter (Jaeger), common in raid
  • Use case: Mid-range DMR play, early wipe sniping

The OP-SKS takes everything that works about the base SKS and adds one game-changing detail — the dovetail mount for scopes. That single feature opens up longer-range potential, making this rifle a standout pick for players who want to fight from rooftops, hills, or bunkers.

In the release version of Tarkov, where good ammo is pricey and modding options can feel tight early on, having a reliable semi-auto that works well with scopes is a big advantage. Load it with BP rounds, throw on a simple optic, and you’ve got one of the most efficient Tarkov weapons for low-cost survival and kill potential.

B-Tier

In the current release version of Escape from Tarkov, not every PMC can afford to bring top-tier rifles into every raid. That’s where Escape from Tarkov B-tier guns come in. These aren’t your meta monsters, but they’re far from useless — especially when used right.

ASh-12 12.7×55 Assault Rifle

Why ASh-12 is good:

  • Ammo: 12.7×55 (PS12B)
  • Source: Barter at Prapor LL3, boss drops, high-tier loot zones
  • Use case: Close-range power plays, ambushing armored targets

Don’t use ASh-12 until you unlock 12.7x55mm PS12B ammo. But after you’ve opened it, use only ASh-12. Soon, you will understand why any of your opponents will be defeated, no matter what kind of armor or helmet they have. If you’re having issues with ammo, you can use our Tarkov Ammunition service to get any type of bullets.

Saiga 12ga ver.10 12/76 Semi-Automatic Shotgun

Why Saiga 12ga is good:

  • Ammo: 12/70 Buckshot, Slugs, Flechettes
  • Source: Common raid loot, barter from Mechanic LL1
  • Use case: Dorms, stair fights, shotgun PvP

The Saiga-12 isn’t fancy, but it gets the job done, especially in the tight spaces where most early raids happen. It shines in spots like Factory or Dorms, where close-range fights are frequent and armor isn’t always meta-level. With high-capacity mags and semi-auto fire, it can shred targets before they react.

In the release version of Escape from Tarkov, where good ammo and useful mods can be tough to secure early on, this shotgun still holds up. It’s cheap, easy to stash, and doesn’t need upgrades to perform. If you load it with Flechettes or AP-20 slugs and pick your fights wisely, the Saiga becomes one of the best budget weapons for raw stopping power.

HK MP7A1 4.6×30 Submachine Gun

Why HK MP7A1 is good:

  • Ammo: 4.6×30 (Subsonic SX, AP SX)
  • Source: Barter from Mechanic LL3, dropped by rogues and raiders
  • Use case: Flanks, room clearing, face-tapping

This is a very interesting candidate for your inventory. Thanks to subsonic ammunition, your recoil is reduced to a small square rather than a huge vertical rectangle. In fact, if you want, you can control it to a point. However, this huge advantage is overridden by a pretty low range of fire. Consequently, in close-range battles, you will be able to outshoot most weapons.

Kel-Tec RFB 7.62×51 Rifle

Why Kel-Tec RFB is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×51 (M80, M62)
  • Source: Trader barter (Peacekeeper LL3), military loot
  • Use case: Budget DMR, semi-auto tap fire

The RFB delivers more than you’d expect from a semi-auto rifle with no customization. While it lacks built-in optics, most players replace the default sight with a proper scope anyway. Its real strengths are reliable recoil, solid armor penetration with 7.62×51 ammo, and the kind of stopping power that drops enemies fast — even in the early stages of the current release version.

Kalashnikov AKM 7.62×39 Assault Rifle

Why the Kalashnikov AKM is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×39 (PS, BP)
  • Source: Barter from Prapor LL2, common PMC/scav loot
  • Use case: All-purpose rifle, budget PvP, learning modding

If you need a reliable rifle that can do a bit of everything, the AKM is your guy. It’s easy to find, hits hard with 7.62×39 ammo, and gives you room for all sorts of attachments if you manage to unlock trader levels.

In the current release version of Escape from Tarkov, it’s not the flashiest choice, but it gets the job done. AKM delivers good firepower, decent range, and enough flexibility to grow with you from raid to raid.

The AKM hits hard and stays reliable, but modding it isn’t cheap. Check out our Tarkov Roubles options to stock up fast and gear your AKM the way it deserves.

Colt M1911A1 .45 ACP Pistol

Why the Colt M1911A1 is good:

  • Ammo: .45 ACP (FMJ, AP)
  • Source: Pistol barter, early loot, Mechanic trades
  • Use case: Backup sidearm, early PvP fights

The Colt M1911A1 might not be flashy, but it’s still one of the best pistols to kick off a wipe. It’s cheap, easy to mod (if you even need to), and comes with a crisp iron sight that helps with precision shots. Even with a small mag size, this .45 ACP sidearm can land lethal hits, especially if you’re aiming for the head.

In Tarkov 1.0, it won’t carry you through late-game fights, but it works well as an early-raid backup or a reliable finisher when your main gun runs dry. If you need a secondary you can trust without breaking the bank, this one still gets the job done.

FN Five-seveN MK2 5.7×28 Pistol

Why FN Five-seveN is good:

  • Ammo: 5.7×28 (SS190)
  • Source: Rare barter, occasional boss drops
  • Use case: Precision finisher, backup DMR pistol

The Five-seveN MK2 is one of Tarkov’s few pistols that can truly threaten armored targets. With SS190 rounds, it plays like a DMR in your sidearm slot, with fast velocity, flat trajectory, and solid penetration. It’s perfect for players who land headshots and need a clean finisher when the primary runs dry.

In Tarkov 1.0, the weapon itself isn’t easy to find, and the ammo is even harder to come by. That makes it a situational pick — excellent if you’re stocked, but not something you can rely on every raid.

C-Tier

These are the Escape from Tarkov C-Tier weapons that can still serve a purpose, but only in specific situations. In Escape from Tarkov 1.0, with tighter trader access, a restricted Flea Market, and leaner early-game loot, some of these guns can end up being your only realistic option during early or desperate raids.

HK UMP.45 ACP Submachine Gun

Why HK UMP.45 is good:

  • Ammo: .45 ACP (FMJ, AP)
  • Source: Barters, early boss loot, scav runs
  • Use case: Early PvP, budget SMG builds

The UMP-45 used to be a hidden gem in previous Tarkov patches thanks to its clean recoil and fast mag dump potential. Even now, it’s one of the easiest SMGs to control in full-auto, aim at the chest, and you’ll likely land a few headshots on the way up.

But in Tarkov 1.0, its usefulness drops off fast once you move past the early raids. .45 ACP rounds struggle against Class 4+ armor, and better SMGs or rifles quickly outclass them once you gear up. Still, as a scav gun or early pickup, the UMP can win fights if you strike first.

Desert Tech MDR 5.56×45 Assault Rifle

Why Desert Tech MDR is good:

  • Ammo: 5.56×45 (M855, M855A1, M995)
  • Source: Barter from Peacekeeper LL3, rare loot spawns
  • Use case: Lightweight full-auto, early to mid-game fights

The 5.56 MDR is still one of the cleanest-feeling rifles in Escape from Tarkov. It has low initial recoil, a compact bullpup profile, and requires little to no modding to be usable. In the right hands, it delivers tight shot groups and fast follow-ups, perfect for quick peaks or hallway engagements.

But in Tarkov 1.0, getting the stronger 5.56 ammo types isn’t easy, which holds this rifle back. Without M855A1 or M995, it becomes tough to drop armored enemies, and most players won’t have access to Peacekeeper LL3 early on. That makes this gun fall off fast, despite how satisfying it is to shoot.

MP-153 12ga Semi-Automatic Shotgun 

Why MP-153 12 is good:

  • Ammo: 12×70 (Flechette, 7mm, AP-20)
  • Source: Trader barters, scav loot

The MP-153 is a solid semi-auto shotgun with good range for its class. It’s easy to find, simple to use, and hits hard in close quarters. Just don’t expect it to shine once armor levels go up — use it early, use it smart.

PPSh-41 7.62×25 Submachine Gun

Why PPSh-41 is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62x25mm TT
  • Source: Early raid loot, scav guns

The PPSh dumps rounds fast and barely kicks, making it great for panicking enemies up close. But with low-penetration ammo and no real attachment options, it loses value quickly, especially in Escape from Tarkov 1.0, where armor matters more than ever.

TOZ KS-23M 23x75mm Pump-Action shotgun

Why TOZ KS-23M is good:

  • Ammo: 23x75mm (Barrikada, Zvezda)
  • Source: LL4 Prapor barter only

The KS-23M can blast enemies for massive damage or blind them with a Zvezda round, turning chaos into easy kills. But it’s locked behind level 4 traders and banned from the Flea Market. Want one early? You’ll need full vendor unlocks, or just use our Tarkov Leveling to speed things up.

Dynamics RD-704 7.62×39 Assault Rifle

Why Dynamics RD-704 is good:

  • Ammo: 7.62×39 (BP)
  • Source: LL4 Mechanic barter only

The RD-704 has fantastic recoil and damage potential, but it’s locked behind late-game barters. In Tarkov 1.0, most players won’t get it early, so it ends up feeling more like a “theoretical meta” pick than something you can rely on in regular raids. Strong, but not accessible.

Molot VPO-215 “Gornostay” .366 TKM Bolt-Action Rifle

Why Molot VPO-215 is good:

  • Ammo: .366 TKM A-PM
  • Source: Barters, early raid spawns

With A-PM rounds, the Gornostay can drop players in one thorax shot if they’re close. But beyond 30 meters, landing clean hits becomes a gamble. Great for rat spots and budget PvP, but hard to rely on consistently.

Best Weapon for Beginners in Escape from Tarkov

If you’re new or starting fresh in Escape from Tarkov 1.0, the AKM is one of the best rifles to learn the game with. It uses 7.62×39 ammo, which hits hard even through armor, and its recoil is manageable enough for semi-auto or short bursts. The gun also teaches you Tarkov’s modding system without overwhelming complexity — you can build it out slowly, piece by piece. Even in stock form, the AKM gets the job done. It’s common, affordable via barters, and good enough to carry you through early raids. For beginners, it’s a reliable way to learn PvP, survive fights, and actually enjoy the learning curve. Here are other great beginner weapons in Escape from Tarkov:

  • SKS / OP-SKS — Semi-auto rifle with powerful rounds and low cost. Easy to use, even without mods.
  • MP-153 / MP-133 — Reliable shotguns for close quarters. Devastating indoors and cheap to maintain.
  • UMP45 — Low-recoil SMG with solid ammo and easy handling. Great for learning factory-style fights.
  • PPSh-41 — Fast-firing SMG with huge mag size. Perfect for panic sprays in early PvP.
  • VPO-136 — AK-style civilian rifle using 7.62×39. Very common, with solid damage and minimal cost.
  • ADAR 2-15 — Semi-auto AR using 5.56, ideal for mid-range fights and smooth modding intro.
  • MP-5 — Classic 9mm SMG with low recoil and high fire rate. New-player friendly and reliable.

Escape From Tarkov Best Guns by Situation

Not every raid needs the same gun. In Escape from Tarkov 1.0, picking the right weapon for the task is more important than ever. Here are our top picks by scenario:

SituationWeaponReason
Best Early Raid GunAKMEasy to find, powerful 7.62×39 rounds, strong even without full mods
Best Budget PistolSR-1MP GyurzaGreat armor penetration, available early, fits any loadout
Best Room Clearing GunSaiga-12 or MP-153Devastating in tight spaces with good ammo
Best for PvP Mid-WipeAUG A3 / DT MDR 7.62Accurate, low recoil, effective with little modding
Best for SnipingOP-SKS or TX-15Reliable semi-auto options with scope support
Best Silent Flanker.300 Blackout MCXSuppressed aggression, perfect for tight maps and low-sound play
Best Utility WeaponKS-23MFlashbang rounds for blind kills or disruption
Best Squad Wipe OptionM32A1 / FN40GLArea denial and explosive pressure, great in dorms or Labs

Best Low Budget Weapon in Escape from Tarkov

In the release of Escape from Tarkov, where Flea access is gone and ammo is limited, the SR-1MP “Shrimp” remains unmatched as a budget lifesaver.

This compact sidearm uses 9x21mm rounds that punch through mid-tier armor, making it a deadly backup or even a main weapon early on. It fits perfectly next to a sniper loadout and doesn’t need attachments to perform. Just grab good ammo, aim for the head, and it’ll finish fights faster than many SMGs.

Considering its low price and early availability from Prapor, it’s easily one of the best cheap weapons in Escape from Tarkov this wipe: reliable, deadly, and always raid-ready.

Escape From Tarkov Weapons Tier List FAQ

In this section, we answer the most common questions about the best guns in Escape from Tarkov, focusing on how things work in the current 1.0 release.

What Are the Best Guns in Escape from Tarkov Right Now?

Top-tier options include the AUG A3, DT MDR 7.62, and MK47 Mutant. They offer strong performance even without heavy modding and stay reliable throughout the early stages of Tarkov 1.0.

What Is the Best Weapon for Early Raids in Escape From Tarkov?

The AKM and SR-1MP Gyurza are the most reliable early picks thanks to their availability, raw power, and ammo efficiency.

Can I Still Use Budget Weapons and Survive in Escape From Tarkov?

Yes. Guns like the Saiga-12, SKS, and Gornostay can easily win fights when used with proper ammo and smart positioning.

Which Gun Is Easiest to Find or Craft During the Release?

The SKS, OP-SKS, and ADAR 2-15 are common in raids and available through barters. They don’t require full mods to be effective.

What’s the Best Pistol in Escape from Tarkov?

The SR-1MP Gyurza is the strongest pick. It handles armor well, fits any loadout, and doesn’t need attachments to work.

Why Are Some Powerful Weapons in Low Tiers in Escape from Tarkov?

Because in Tarkov 1.0, accessibility matters. A strong gun you can’t get or afford doesn’t mean much — we rank weapons by realistic usability, not just raw stats.

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Escape From Tarkov Best Weapons 4.9

That’s all the information a newcomer or experienced player needs about Escape from Tarkov meta weapons, when it is best to use them, as well as for what budget, and which weapons are best suited. We hope this guide was useful. See you on the battlefields of Escape from Tarkov!

Changelog

11 Jul. 2025 Updated for Hardcore Wipe.
17 Nov. 2025 Updated for Tarkov Release and 1.0 version.

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