Stalker 2 Best Weapon Tier List: Ranking the Top Guns

Essential Weapon Tier List for Stalker 2

In the immersive world of Stalker 2, players have access to a broad arsenal of weapons, each designed to cater to various combat styles—be it close-quarters brawls, mid-range skirmishes, or long-distance sniping. The game’s unique firearm mechanics ensure that every weapon feels distinct, offering unique handling and differing damage outputs.

But with such a plethora of choices available, which weapons should you prioritize as you forge your path? In this comprehensive Stalker 2 weapon tier list, we will evaluate and rank all available firearms from S-tier to C-tier, aiding you in your decisions on which weapons to keep, sell, or abandon as you progress through the game.

Ranking All Common Weapons in Stalker 2

Defeating Pseudogiant in Just Business side quest in Stalker 2 — Screenshot by Prima Games

Tiers	Weapons
S-Tier	M701 Super, Rhino, Ram-2, Saiga D-12, Gauss Gun, Mark 1 EMR, Dnipro, Kharod, Zubr-19, APSB
A-Tier	SVU-MK S-3, SVDM-2, Integral-A, SPSA-14, GP37, VS Vintar, M860 Cracker, Fora-221
B-Tier	AR416, AKM-74S, Buket S-2, AS Lavina, Skif’s Pistol, Grom S-14, RPM-74, AKM-74U, Viper-5, M10 Gordon, UDP Compact
C-Tier	PTM, Toz-33, Boomstick, RPG-7U

S-Tier Weapons

M701 Super

M701 Stats in Stalker 2 — Screenshot by Prima Games

Stats	Value
Weight	4.5 kg
Caliber	.308
Gun Health	3000 HP
Durability	450
Damage	160 dmg
DPS	77
Efficiency	21%
RPM	29 rpm
Range	500 m
Drop Off	280 m
Accuracy	90%
Recoil	1000
Fire Mode	Manual
Magazine Size	5

Hauling one of the best sniper rifles in Stalker 2, the M701 Super is ideal for those who favor eliminating enemies from a safe distance. Its high damage per shot can down most human adversaries with a single hit and only requires a bit more effort to tackle tougher mutants.

M701 Super in Stalker 2 — Screenshot by Prima Games

To acquire the M701 Super, visit the rooftop of the Bread Factory, to the north of Yaniv Station. Alternatively, purchase it from Viktoria Dorozhnyuk at STC Malachite. Keep an eye out as the Wreck Vendor in Yaniv Station might also have this weapon in stock eventually.

Rhino

Stats	Value
Weight	1.5 kg
Caliber	9×39
Gun Health	3000 HP
Durability	450
Damage	100 dmg
DPS	264
Efficiency	45%
RPM	158 rpm
Range	300 m
Drop Off	80 m
Accuracy	83%
Recoil	850
Fire Mode	Single
Magazine Size	6

The Rhino stands out among pistols for its formidable power, capable of dispatching heavily armored foes swiftly. It proves effective against formidable mutants like Controllers and Bloodsuckers, adding significant value to your loadout.

For a free Rhino, loot it from a downed helicopter located in Malachite after crossing the Scorcher Checkpoint. A second Rhino can be found to the east of the Bread Factory in the Jupiter region, making it an excellent choice without spending your hard-earned coupons.

A-Tier Weapons

SVU-MK S-3

Stats	Value
Weight	4.4 kg
Caliber	7.62×54
Gun Health	2700 HP
Durability	270
Damage	80 dmg
DPS	800
Efficiency	6%
RPM	600 rpm
Range	450 m
Drop Off	350 m
Accuracy	84%
Recoil	850
Fire Mode	Single
Magazine Size	10 / 20

The SVU-MK S-3 is a versatile choice in Stalker 2, combining precision shooting with a high rate of fire, making it adept in various combat scenarios. Though it may not have the raw stopping power of S-tier rifles, its RPM allows it to effectively eliminate targets quickly.

To secure the SVU-MK S-3 for free, head to the Quarry north of the Parking Lot Point of Interest. A rusted crane will lead you to this sniping gem. You can also unlock it from the Lisovyi POI by using the code 240983.

B-Tier Weapons

AR416

Stats	Value
Weight	3.7 kg
Caliber	5.56×45
Gun Health	1500 HP
Durability	1, 442
Damage	16 dmg
DPS	200
Efficiency	16%
RPM	750 rpm
Range	300 m
Drop Off	250 m
Accuracy	72%
Recoil	180
Fire Mode	Automatic, Single
Magazine Size	30 / 50

The AR416 is a competent mid-game assault rifle valuable for its availability. You can expect to encounter this weapon often among enemies within early regions like the Garbage and Chemical Plant, thanks to its reasonable range and accuracy.

To find the AR416 for free, loot bodies located southwest of the Bloodsucker Village PoI in the Chemical Plant area. Expect to find both the AR416 and a Viper-5, albeit with less durability. For direct purchase, it’ll cost you 14, 000 Credits.

C-Tier Weapons

PTM

Screenshot by Prima Games

Stats	Value
Weight	0.5 kg
Caliber	9×18
Gun Health	1500 HP
Durability	455
Damage	30 dmg
DPS	334
Efficiency	144%
RPM	667 rpm
Range	100 m
Drop Off	80 m
Accuracy	65%
Recoil	300
Fire Mode	Single
Magazine Size	8 / 12

As one of the most accessible firearms in Stalker 2, the PTM is more about availability than effectiveness. With poor damage output and mediocre range, this weapon falls short in combat scenarios.

Found frequently among the loot pooled in the Lesser Zone, it requires no credits for acquisition—simply grab one as you proceed through the early areas. It’s suggested to repair it at a Technician if you feel the need for a pistol in your gear.

In summary, this tier list provides essential insight into the best and worst firearms available in Stalker 2. Choose wisely to enhance your wear-and-tear in the challenging wasteland as you navigate through its dangers.

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