Best Stalker 2 Weapons: Where to Find Them Early Game

In Stalker 2, the Zone is a dangerous place, filled with mutants, anomalies, and hostile factions. But while survival may be your main concern, being properly armed can make all the difference. The game offers a wide range of weapons, and some of the best can be found early on in your journey. In this guide, we'll show you the best early game weapons in Stalker 2, how to get them, and their locations—so you can quickly gear up and face the dangers of the Zone with confidence.

1. AR416 from an Unknown Stalker

Weapon Type: Assault Rifle
Location: The Poppy Field or Pomor’s Hideout

The AR416 is a versatile and powerful assault rifle that is highly recommended for the early game. It's a reliable choice, especially for taking on hostile NPCs and mutants with ease. To obtain this weapon, you have two options:

  • Option 1: Complete the quest The Poppy Field and give a religious icon to Pomor.
  • Option 2: Alternatively, eliminate Pomor (who is not friendly) and loot the AR416 from his body.

Note that the AR416 will be in a red state (damaged), so you’ll need to repair it before it’s fully usable. However, once repaired, this weapon is a great addition to your arsenal and will serve you well in the early stages of the game.

2. AKM-74U Submachine Gun

Weapon Type: Submachine Gun
Location: Stalker Hideout in the Lower Zone (Southern Tunnel)

If you prefer a more compact weapon with decent firepower, the AKM-74U is an excellent choice. This submachine gun offers high mobility and good rate of fire, making it ideal for close-range combat.

To find it, head to a Stalker hideout located in a tunnel in the southern part of the Lower Zone. Inside the hideout, you’ll encounter a Stalker who will warn you to stay away. You’ll need to eliminate him, but be cautious of explosive barrels in the area. Once the coast is clear, go to a nearby car where you’ll find a bag containing the AKM-74U.

3. Toz-34 Shotgun

Weapon Type: Shotgun (Pump-action)
Location: Near the AKM-74U Hideout, South of the Tunnel

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If you like to get up close and personal with your enemies, the Toz-34 pump-action shotgun is an excellent weapon for early encounters. This powerful close-quarters firearm can take down enemies with a single blast, making it perfect for clearing out tight spaces or dealing with mutants.

To find the Toz-34, head a little further south from the location where you found the AKM-74U. Look for a hut that is accessible by ladder. Climb up and make your way to the roof, where you’ll find this shotgun in impeccable condition.

4. SVDM-2 Sniper Rifle

Weapon Type: Sniper Rifle
Location: Northern Border Post in the Lower Zone

The SVDM-2 is a high-powered sniper rifle with great range and accuracy, making it perfect for picking off enemies from a distance. While it’s not the easiest weapon to acquire early in the game, its usefulness in long-range engagements makes it a solid choice if you want to play stealthily or take down enemies from a safe distance.

To obtain the SVDM-2, head toward the northern border post in the Lower Zone. There, you’ll find a building where a bandit named Leshy is holed up. The area is heavily booby-trapped, so watch your step! You can make things easier by shooting Leshy from below, as he will be exposed on a platform. After defeating him, you can loot the SVDM-2 either from his body or from the surrounding area. However, be warned—the rifle will be in poor condition, so you’ll need to repair it to get the most out of it.

5. Silent Pistol

Weapon Type: Pistol (Silenced)
Location: Chemical Tanks at the Chemical Plant Area

For a quieter, more tactical approach, the Silent Pistol is a fantastic choice. It comes with a silencer and an augmented magazine, allowing you to take down enemies without alerting nearby foes. This is a great option if you prefer to avoid confrontation or need to carry out stealthy eliminations.

To find the Silent Pistol, head to the Chemical Tanks in the Chemical Plant area. Inside, you’ll find several dead soldiers and a small burrow. Enter the burrow and look for a bag containing the pistol and its accessories. This weapon is a fantastic early-game tool for taking out enemies quietly and efficiently.

Conclusion

Getting the best weapons early in Stalker 2 can make your life in the Zone much easier. Whether you're looking for a reliable assault rifle, a powerful shotgun, a precise sniper rifle, or a quiet pistol, these five weapons are great choices to help you survive and thrive in the harsh environment of the Zone.

Remember, this list is just a starting point. While these weapons can be obtained relatively early in the game, there are many more powerful firearms to discover as you explore further into the Zone. But with these weapons in hand, you'll be better prepared for the dangers that lie ahead. Happy hunting, stalker! 

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