Top Affordable Loadouts for Escape from Tarkov Version 0.16.8

The latest update to Escape from Tarkov, version 0.16.8, introduces what is likely the first and last hardcore wipe, challenging players to enhance their skills to secure even basic gear.

Surviving in Tarkov requires creativity and resourcefulness, as each raid can turn into a test of endurance. Fortunately, players can still attain strong loadouts without overly costly investments. Rather than relying on ineffective Scav gear, discover these cost-effective loadouts designed for you to thrive during the hardcore wipe.

Top Affordable Loadouts for Tarkov’s Hardcore Wipe

Escape from Tarkov Trailer — Image via Battlestate Games

These recommended loadouts are primarily tailored for players starting with level 1 traders. Given the recent substantial changes from Battlestate Games (BSG), higher-level access remains limited during this hardcore wipe. Below are some optimal setups to maximize your performance in raids with only level 1 trader gear.

Armor Recommendations

Selecting the right armor is straightforward, as options are limited; the question arises—should you even wear armor? The answer is a resounding yes. Class 2 PACA armor is effective against commonly used lower-caliber ammunition.

Neglecting to wear PACA armor could leave you more vulnerable, as many performing low damage tend to inflict greater flesh damage alongside reduced armor penetration.

Always aim to equip a PACA Soft Armor and an SSH-68 Steel Helmet, approximately costing 89, 000 Roubles combined. The helmet delivers exceptional protection, especially as many players opt for ammunition that struggles to penetrate class 2 armor effectively.

Essential Medical Loadout

With medical supplies now restricted from the Secure Container in the hardcore wipe, prioritize basic yet crucial med items. You’ll want to allocate your Roubles wisely while ensuring you have adequate medical coverage for various emergencies such as fractures and severe bleeding. Bring the following items to every raid:

2 Bandages
Esmarch Tourniquet
CARs or A1-2 Medkits
CMS Kit (in your special equipment slot)

Additionally, keep a Propital and a Zagustin in your Secure Container. Though challenging to obtain, these items can serve as lifesavers. The Zagustin is effective for stopping heavy bleeds, while the Propital provides critical pain management during extraction.

For more challenging raids, consider packing better medical items such as IFAKs or Grizzlies when operating with a skilled group, especially for high-stakes tasks.

PP-91-01 with Axion Kobra EKP-8-02 Reflex Sight (52, 000+ Roubles)

One of the most budget-friendly loadouts includes the PP-91-01 single-fire submachine gun, along with a mounted scope or sight. Firing 9x19mm ammo, you will likely choose the 9x19mm Green Tracer (91 Roubles per shot) from level 1 traders. This weapon is efficient for causing flesh damage while maintaining affordability.

The PP-91-01 excels at completing quests and engaging enemies with precision. Its single-fire mode conserves ammunition, relieving you from the burden of carrying excessive loose bullets.

PP-91 Kedr (40, 000+ Roubles)

Prapor Trader — Screenshot by Prima Games

The Kedr is another affordable and fast-firing SMG available from Prapor at level 1. While limited to inefficient 20-round magazines and lacking mod options, its rapid firing capability makes it a lethal choice. Utilize the following ammunition types:

9x18mm PM PPe gzh (85 Roubles per shot) – cost-efficient
9x18mm PM RG028 gzh (142 Roubles per shot) – high damage

Both ammo types fall short on armor penetration against class 2 and above; thus, focus on targeting limbs, particularly legs, for maximum effectiveness. A complete 20-round magazine aimed at an opponent’s legs can incapacitate them while avoiding the need for expensive sights.

590A1 Shotgun ($474)

The 590A1 shotgun, obtainable from Peacekeeper, offers a practical choice for players. The cost-efficiency of utilizing slugs and buckshot negates the need for pricey ammunition, making shotguns a popular “cheap” loadout strategy.

The setup is user-friendly, requiring minimal mods such as a flashlight or basic sights. Available ammunition options at trader level 1 include:

12/70 Lead Slug (1 USD per shot) – high damage potential
12/70 buckshot varieties (7mm, 5.25mm, and 6.5mm)

Using slugs effectively increases your range, enabling you to eliminate Scavs from distances of up to 40-80 meters. Targeting limbs is still key, as the listed ammo types possess limited armor penetration capabilities.

SKS (44, 000+ Roubles)

Finally, the WeS remains a reliable choice for early-game encounters. With no modding required and minimal ammo demands, it effectively utilizes 7.62×39 ammunition, one of the best options with level 1 traders. While the 7.62×51 round exists, typically reserved for bolt-action guns, the 7.62×39 stands out in the early game.

HP ammo from Jaeger can be beneficial, though it compromises penetration for more damage. As you upgrade your hideout, consider crafting some higher-quality 7.62×39 FMJ ammo for marginal gains over the standard SP rounds.

A useful strategy is to collect 7.62×39 ammo directly from Scav kills, which commonly spawn with this type of ammunition, giving you reliable access to both FMJs and T-45Ms to enhance your raid performance.

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