Escape from Tarkov: Best Ammo for Every Situation
In the brutal world of Escape from Tarkov, every decision matters, and choosing the right ammunition can be the difference between life and death. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a new player, understanding the best ammo for your weapons is crucial to gaining an edge in this unforgiving survival shooter. In this guide, we’ll break down the best ammo types for different scenarios, helping you optimize your loadout and dominate the competition.
Why Ammo Choice Matters in Tarkov
In Escape from Tarkov, ammunition isn’t just about dealing damage—it’s about penetration, ricochet chances, and even the sound your shots make. The game’s realistic ballistics system makes ammo selection a strategic decision. For example, using overpowered ammo might increase recoil, while subsonic rounds can help you stay stealthy. With so many factors at play, choosing the right ammo requires a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics.
Best Ammo for Assault Rifles
Assault rifles are versatile weapons in Tarkov, and the right ammo can make them even more deadly. Here are some top picks:
M995: This 5.56x45mm round is a favorite among players due to its high penetration and moderate recoil. It’s ideal for engagements at medium to long ranges.
PSO: A budget-friendly option with decent penetration and low recoil, making it great for close-quarters combat.
BP: A heavier 5.56x45mm round with higher damage output, but it comes with increased recoil. Use it when you need to stop enemies quickly.
Best Ammo for Sniper Rifles
Sniper rifles are all about precision, and the right ammo ensures one-shot kills. Here are the top choices:
7N39: This 5.45x39mm round is designed for long-range engagements, offering high penetration and flat trajectory.
SPP: A subsonic round that minimizes noise but still packs a punch. Perfect for stealthy gameplay.
SNB: A heavy-hitter with high damage output, but it’s loud and has a steep learning curve.
Best Ammo for Shotguns
Shotguns are devastating at close range, and the right ammo can make them even more effective:
Flechette: These shells turn your shotgun into a close-range beast, shredding enemies with ease.
Slug: A single projectile with high penetration, great for engaging armored targets.
Buckshot: Classic shotgun ammo with a wide spread, ideal for taking out multiple enemies quickly.
Best Ammo for Pistols
Pistols are often overlooked, but with the right ammo, they can be surprisingly effective:
AP 9x18mm: A powerful round with high penetration, making it great for armored targets.
PSO 9x18mm: A balanced option with moderate damage and low recoil.
BP 9x19mm: A heavy round with high damage output, but it’s louder and harder to control.
Best Ammo for SMGs
SMGs are all about speed and agility, and the right ammo complements their fast-paced playstyle:
PSO 9x19mm: A budget-friendly option with low recoil and decent damage.
AP 9x19mm: High penetration and moderate damage, great for engaging armored opponents.
BP 9x19mm: A heavy round with high damage output, but it’s louder and harder to control.
Final Thoughts
In Escape from Tarkov, the best ammo for you depends on your playstyle, the weapons you use, and the situations you find yourself in. Experiment with different types of ammunition to find what works best for you. Remember, every bullet counts, and the right choice could mean the difference between escaping Tarkov alive or becoming another statistic.