Arc Raiders – Best Weapons Tier List

Weapons in Arc Raiders are the main tools you take in your runs and use to fight both ARC enemies and for PvP. They come in different types, rarities, and damage classes, each suited for certain playstyles. Choosing the best one is crucial in every aspect, as your build and gameplay mostly depend on them.  You can improve weapons by crafting or using crafting stations with materials.

1. Best Weapons Tier List in Arc Raiders

This weapons tier list is fully based on optimizing your runs and facing both PvP and PvE enemies and bosses. Learn which weapons excel in Arc damage and armor penetration to help you choose according to your playstyle. It includes weapons from SMGs, Pistols, Snipers, and Assault Rifles that you should take on your runs to be the best squad while you’re out looting.

Weapons tier list table

2. S-Tier

2.1 Osprey

Osprey

The Osprey is a unique sniper rifle with a built-in long-range scope, making it stand out from every other weapon in Arc Raiders. It offers exceptional damage output but only moderate Arc armor penetration compared to the Ferro.

Performance:

• Deals 4–5 damage per shot with a base magazine size of eight.
• Has the highest damage among snipers, second only to the Jupiter Energy Rifle.

• Slightly lighter than the Ferro at 7 kg, providing better mobility.

Advantages:

• Massive damage potential, making it one of the most powerful weapons in the game.
• Great for long-range combat due to the built-in scope.

• High accuracy and stability, ideal for picking off targets from afar.

Caution:

• No variable zoom, limiting adaptability at different ranges.
• Forced scoping means no hip-fire capability.

• Less effective against heavily armored Arc enemies.

Tip: Use the Osprey for precision sniping and high-damage plays, especially in open environments where long-range sightlines give you the upper hand.

2.2 Bettina

Bettina

The Bettina is the only assault rifle in Arc Raiders with strong Arc armor penetration, making it a powerful hybrid weapon for both PvE and PvP encounters.

Performance:

• Delivers higher DPS than the Tempest, even against players.
• Features a 20-round magazine by default, requiring controlled bursts for efficiency.

• Excels in late-game scenarios due to its balance between damage output and versatility.

Advantages:

• Exceptional armor penetration, ideal for taking down heavily armored Arc enemies.
• High DPS makes it equally viable in player combat.

• Versatile — fits both PvP and PvE loadouts without needing separate weapons.

Caution:

• Small magazine size can limit sustained fire in extended fights.

• Requires precise aim and reload timing to maximize performance.

Tip: Use the Bettina when you need a single weapon that can handle both tough Arc units and enemy players effectively. Pair it with a backup weapon that compensates for its limited ammo capacity.

2.3 Renegade

Renegade

The Renegade is essentially a PvP-focused variant of the Ferro, trading single-shot power for faster follow-up shots and improved combat rhythm in player encounters.

Performance:

• Deals 35 damage per shot with a magazine size of eight, allowing multiple hits per reload.
• Weighs 10 kg, making it one of the heavier weapons in its class.

• Offers moderate Arc armor penetration, keeping it viable for PvE when needed.

Advantages:

• High headshot damage potential makes it deadly in player duels.
• Faster reload cycle compared to the Ferro’s single-shot mechanism.

• Great choice for players who prefer aggressive PvP engagements over long-range precision.

Caution:

• Heavy weight impacts mobility and stamina.

• Slightly lower base damage means precision and timing are crucial for success.

Tip: Use the Renegade if your focus is on PvP combat, leveraging its high headshot multiplier and multi-shot capability to dominate close-to-mid-range encounters. Pair it with lighter gear to offset its weight disadvantage.

2.4 Venator

Venator Arc Raiders

The Venator stands out as the only rare pistol in Arc Raiders, known for its unique dual-bullet firing mechanic. Despite being a sidearm, it packs serious power while maintaining exceptional mobility.

Performance:

• Fires two bullets simultaneously, increasing burst damage potential.
• Weighs only 2 kg, making it the lightest weapon in the game.

• Offers moderate Arc armor penetration, limiting its effectiveness against heavily armored enemies.

Advantages:

• High damage output, ranking slightly above the Anvil against standard raiders.
• Ideal for players who prefer lightweight loadouts or need a reliable backup weapon.
• Extremely fast draw speed, perfect for quick engagements or emergency defense.

Caution:

• Limited armor penetration makes it less efficient against tougher Arc units.

• Dual-bullet firing can burn through ammo quickly, so manage shots carefully.

Tip: Equip the Venator if you want a compact, high-burst pistol that excels in close encounters. Pair it with a primary weapon that handles armor to balance out its moderate penetration limits.

2.5 Anvil

Anvil

The Anvil is an S-tier weapon in Arc Raiders, excelling in both PvP and PvE scenarios. It combines strong armor penetration, lightweight design, and high damage output, making it one of the most versatile weapons in the game.

Performance:

• Delivers 40 damage per shot, matching the Ferro’s power.
• Offers six rounds per reload, allowing more sustained fire.

• Weighs only 5 kg, enhancing mobility and agility during raids.

Advantages:

• Strong armor penetration makes it highly effective against Arc enemies.
• Lightweight design reduces stamina drain, enabling faster movement and longer engagements.
• Functions equally well in PvP and PvE, providing balanced performance across all combat types.

• Can be crafted using common materials or purchased from vendors, making it accessible early on.

Caution:

• Despite its strengths, its limited mag size requires careful reload timing.

• Not ideal for spray-and-pray combat due to its semi-auto fire rate.

Tip: Use the Anvil as your go-to all-rounder. Its balance of damage, mobility, and armor penetration makes it a perfect primary weapon for both aggressive raiders and tactical players aiming to optimize loadout efficiency.

2.6 Ferro

Ferro

The Ferro stands as one of the best weapons in Arc Raiders, offering unmatched Arc armor penetration and high single-shot damage. Despite being a battle rifle that requires reloading after every shot, its power and consistency make it an S-tier weapon from early to late game.

Performance:

• Deals 40 damage per shot, making it deadly in both PvE and PvP scenarios.
• Excels at taking down heavily armored Arc enemies due to its exceptional armor penetration.

• Works effectively with third-person peeking, allowing you to reload safely behind cover.

Advantages:

• Strong Arc armor penetration—one of only a few weapons in the game with this capability.
• High damage per shot ensures efficiency against both players and enemies.

• Viable across all stages of the game, from beginner to advanced raids.

Caution:

• Heavy weight (8 kg) reduces your overall loot capacity and movement speed.

• Single-shot reload requires precision and tactical positioning during fights.

Tip: Use the Ferro when tackling Arc-heavy zones or difficult raids where penetration and precision matter most. Pair it with a light secondary weapon to offset its weight and ensure you stay agile during intense engagements.

2.7 Vulcano

Vulcano

The Vulcano is the highest damage-dealing weapon in Arc Raiders — capable of unmatched power when every shot connects. It outperforms nearly every other weapon in raw output, making it a true S-tier powerhouse for players with great accuracy.

Performance:

• Delivers massive burst damage if all pellets hit the target.
• Even with partial hits, it still outdamages most other weapons in the game.

• Excels in close-range encounters, where accuracy and pellet spread work in your favor.

Advantages:

• Unmatched DPS potential when played skillfully.
• Great for PvP and fast takedowns in close combat.

• Wide pellet spread can still land multiple hits on larger enemies.

Caution:

• Weak Arc armor penetration, making it poor against heavily armored enemies.
• Possible future nerfs due to its dominant damage output in earlier tests.

• Requires precision—missing shots drastically lowers its effectiveness.

Tip: Use the Vulcano in close-range PvP or raid fights where Arc enemies are minimal. Stay aggressive, close the distance, and take advantage of its burst potential to eliminate targets before they can react.

3. A-Tier

3.1 Torrente

Torrente

The Torrente functions like a mini-gun, delivering massive sustained firepower with extremely high damage output on paper. It’s one of the most effective weapons for raw DPS, though its wide bullet spread limits accuracy when standing or moving.

Performance:

• Exceptionally high damage output with continuous fire.
• Suffers from poor accuracy unless you’re crouching or stationary.

• Excels at suppressive fire and controlling airborne enemies.

Advantages:

• Perfect for fighting flying Arc units, as its spread covers large areas.
• The heavy fire can stagger or disorient flying enemies, making them easier targets.

• High ammo output gives strong area denial in both PvE and PvP.

Caution:

• Low accuracy makes it ineffective at long range.
• High recoil and spread demand a stable firing stance.

• Consumes ammo rapidly, so plan your loadout carefully.

Tip: Use the Torrente against airborne or clustered enemies, where precision matters less than sheer volume of fire. Crouch before firing to tighten spread and maximize hit consistency, turning the weapon into a devastating anti-air suppression tool in Arc Raiders.

3.2 IL Toro

IL Toro

The IL Toro is the first shotgun you’ll unlock in Arc Raiders, known for its devastating close-range power. Despite its slow fire rate and limited range, it’s one of the hardest-hitting weapons in the game when used properly.

Performance:

• Fires pellets, meaning damage drops sharply with distance.
• Weak Arc armor penetration makes it less effective against armored enemies.

• Slow firing speed, requiring precision and timing in close combat.

Advantages:

• Extremely high damage per shot, the highest in the game.
• Can instantly eliminate enemies at point-blank range.

• Perfect for close-quarters PvP and tight indoor fights.

Caution:

• Limited range—damage falls off dramatically beyond a few meters.
• Slow reload and rate of fire make missed shots punishing.

• Useless in open areas or against distant targets.

Tip: To maximize its potential, barrel-stuff enemies—get right up close before firing. Use cover and corners to close the gap safely, and treat IL Toro as a high-risk, high-reward shotgun that dominates close-range fights but struggles in any ranged encounter.

4. B-Tier

4.1 Tempest

Tempest

The Tempest is an epic rarity assault rifle that stands out as a powerful and versatile all-rounder in Arc Raiders. With a 25-round base magazine, it provides enough firepower for both PvP and PvE encounters without frequent reloads.

Performance:

• Weighs 11 kg, making it one of the heavier assault rifles.
• Excels in close to mid-range combat, offering reliable control and strong stopping power.

• Effective against both players and Arc enemies lacking heavy armor.

Advantages:

• Balanced recoil and accuracy, ideal for sustained fights.
• High versatility, performing well across multiple engagement ranges.

• Large magazine size allows for extended engagements without downtime.

Caution:

• Heavier weight slightly impacts mobility and stamina.

• Not optimal for long-range combat due to bullet drop and spread.

Tip: Use the Tempest as your go-to weapon for mixed encounters—it’s reliable, steady, and adaptable. Pair it with a light secondary weapon or sniper rifle to cover long-range weaknesses and make the most of its balanced firepower and precision.

4.2 Burletta

Burletta

The Burletta in Arc Raiders functions as an upgraded version of the Hairpin, offering solid damage in a lightweight frame. Weighing just 4 kg, it delivers damage comparable to the Rattler or Kettle while allowing players to carry more loot due to its reduced weight.

Performance:

• 12-round magazine makes it reliable in short PvP engagements.
• Lightweight build improves agility and stamina management.

• Deals poor Arc damage, so it’s not suited for heavy PvE encounters.

Advantages:

• Excellent choice for light, fast loadouts focused on mobility.
• Good DPS-to-weight ratio, making it efficient for early and mid-game runs.

• Ideal for players looking for a low-cost PvP weapon that still holds its own.

Caution:

• Weak against armored enemies—avoid relying on it for Arc fights.

• Limited magazine compared to higher-tier weapons.

Tip: Use the Burletta as a light backup weapon or main firearm when prioritizing speed and loot capacity. Its compact design and decent firepower make it perfect for hit-and-run tactics or quick raids where every kilogram counts.

4.3 Bobcat

Bobcat

The Bobcat in Arc Raiders is built for players who love close-quarters combat. It’s fast-handling, highly accurate in hip fire, and offers smooth recoil control, making it one of the most comfortable weapons to use in tight spaces.

Performance:

• Excels in CQC engagements thanks to its snappy aim and strong handling.
• Very stable hip fire allows you to stay mobile while maintaining accuracy.

• Lacks range effectiveness and overall damage compared to other epic-tier weapons.

Advantages:

• Ideal for aggressive, run-and-gun players.
• Great handling and recoil control make it beginner-friendly.

• Pairs well with a mid- or long-range secondary to cover its weaknesses.

Caution:

• Low damage output limits its potential in longer fights.
• Weak armor penetration makes it ineffective against tougher Arc enemies.

• Falls behind other epic rarity weapons in raw performance.

Tip: Use the Bobcat if you prefer speed and precision in close-range skirmishes. While it won’t dominate armored targets, it’s a solid choice for PvP encounters or quick ambushes where agility matters more than damage.

5. C-Tier

5.1 Arpeggio

Arpeggio

The Arpeggio is a burst-fire assault rifle in Arc Raiders that offers decent consistency but struggles in overall damage output compared to top-tier weapons like the Anvil and Ferro. It trades raw power for control and sustained firing capacity.

Performance:

• Burst-fire mechanism delivers moderate precision but lacks stopping power.
• Lower per-burst damage means it’s less effective in direct duels.

• Excels in cover-based engagements where peeking and retreating are frequent.

Advantages:

• Large magazine size allows for extended fights without frequent reloads.
• Provides a steady rate of fire ideal for suppressing enemies or finishing weakened targets.

• Works well for players who favor tactical positioning over high-DPS aggression.

Caution:

• Weak burst damage makes it ineffective in high-pressure fights.
• Can feel underwhelming against armored Arc units or aggressive players.

• Requires good timing and burst control to maintain efficiency in combat.

Tip: Use the Arpeggio if you prefer a methodical playstyle that rewards cover usage and precision bursts. While it’s not a top-damage weapon, its ammo efficiency and magazine capacity make it a viable secondary choice for longer engagements.

5.2 Stitcher

Stitcher

The Stitcher is a light ammo SMG known for having the largest magazine size among all common weapons and delivering the highest pure DPS in its class. While many players prefer the Rattler, the Stitcher actually performs better statistically in several areas.

Performance:

• Offers excellent short-to-mid-range performance, ideal for close-quarters combat.
• Huge magazine capacity allows you to take on multiple enemies without reloading.

• Excels in fast, aggressive fights where sustained fire is crucial.

Advantages:

• Higher agility stats make it a great choice for players who prioritize mobility and looting speed.
• Lighter than the Rattler, making it more efficient for long raids and loot-heavy runs.

• Reliable DPS output ensures quick eliminations in close engagements.

Caution:

• Limited range effectiveness — damage falls off quickly at distance.
• Struggles against heavily armored enemies or Arc units.

• Recoil control can be tricky during prolonged firing bursts.

Tip: The Stitcher is perfect for close-range fighters who want a light, high-capacity SMG that keeps up with aggressive pushes and looting runs. Use it in tight corridors or urban zones to maximize its power before switching to a longer-range weapon for open areas.

5.3 Rattler

The Rattler is an uncommon light ammo SMG that offers several key advantages over the Stitcher, particularly when facing Arc enemies. It’s the only full-auto weapon in its rarity tier that provides moderate Arc armor penetration, giving it a distinct edge in versatility and combat flexibility.

Performance:

• Moderate Arc armor penetration makes it more effective against tougher Arc enemies like the Wasp.
• Reduced damage falloff improves mid-range consistency, outperforming the Stitcher at distance.

• Highly stable, allowing for more accurate sustained fire in extended engagements.

Advantages:

• Better overall handling and recoil control, ideal for players who like a mix of close and medium-range fights.
• Reload system allows you to insert two bullets at a time, and you can cancel reload mid-way, giving you tactical flexibility.

• Good balance between PvE and PvP performance, especially when upgraded.

Caution:

• Small magazine size — only 10 rounds by default, so reloading often is inevitable.
• Despite better Arc performance, it still lacks the raw DPS of the Stitcher.

• Not ideal for heavy crowd control or long sustained firefights.

Tip: Use the Rattler when you want an SMG that can handle Arc enemies while still being effective in PvP. Its reload flexibility and range stability make it a solid choice for players who value control and precision over raw firepower.

5.4 Kettle

The Kettle is a common rarity assault rifle in Arc Raiders that offers a reliable, precise option for players who prefer single-fire control over full-auto spraying. While it’s not the most powerful weapon in its class, it strikes a decent balance between damage, accuracy, and ammo efficiency.

Performance:

• Single-fire weapon, requiring rapid clicking to maximize its DPS.
• Damage output is slightly lower than the Rattler, but compensated by its larger 20-round magazine.

• Works best in short to mid-range combat, where precision and pacing matter.

Advantages:

• Higher magazine capacity provides more shots per reload than most other common weapons.
• Accurate and stable in short bursts, rewarding skilled players with good trigger discipline.

• Ammo-efficient, making it a good option for longer raids or players who prefer precision over volume.

Caution:

• Single-fire mechanics can be tiring or inefficient in chaotic fights where automatic fire is better.
• Struggles at long range due to damage drop-off and recoil recovery time.

• Slower reload speed, leaving you vulnerable if you mismanage your magazine.

Tip: Use the Kettle if you prefer controlled, paced engagements and want to maximize precision without relying on auto-fire. It’s a solid, beginner-friendly choice but requires good trigger control to unleash its full potential.

5.5 Hullcracker

Hullcracker

The Hullcracker is one of the few weapons in Arc Raiders with very strong Arc armor penetration, making it a top-tier choice for players focused on taking down heavily armored Arcs. While it doesn’t make those fights easy, it dramatically reduces the effort compared to most other weapons.

Performance:

• Exceptional Arc armor penetration, capable of dealing effective damage even to tough enemies like Rocketeers.

• Despite its strength, Arcs still require multiple hits, so accuracy and positioning are key.

Advantages:

• Specialized anti-Arc weapon — ideal for PvE encounters where Arc enemies are dominant.
• Can bypass most armor types, giving it a unique edge in high-threat zones.

• Highly effective when used strategically against specific targets.

Caution:

• Completely ineffective against players or non-Arc enemies — grenades don’t explode unless they directly hit an Arc.
• Using it in PvP is pointless, as shots do no real damage to human opponents.

• Limited versatility, making it a poor choice for general-purpose loadouts.

Tip: Use the Hullcracker only when your mission or raid involves heavy Arc combat. Its contact-based explosion mechanic makes it situational but devastating in the right hands — a true Arc destroyer if you can land your shots consistently.

5.6 Equalizer

Equalizer

The Equalizer is one of the few weapons in Arc Raiders featuring very strong Arc armor penetration, making it a powerful choice for PvE-focused players. With its large 50-round magazine, it excels at sustained fire against high-health Arc enemies, though its player DPS isn’t particularly impressive.

Performance:

• Designed primarily for endgame PvE encounters, especially effective against large Arcs like the Queen.

• Provides continuous damage output, allowing you to maintain pressure on tough enemies without frequent reloads.

Advantages:

• Massive magazine size enables long firing sequences without interruption.
• Exceptional Arc armor penetration, making it one of the top weapons for taking down elite Arc targets.

• Ideal for team play, where you can focus on suppressing or burning down heavy enemies while others handle smaller threats.

Caution:

• Poor PvP performance due to high recoil and low DPS against players.
• Heavy weapon, reducing mobility and stamina efficiency during raids.

• Best used in PvE-focused loadouts, not as a general-purpose weapon.

Tip: The Equalizer shines when used strategically against high-value Arc enemies. Equip it for boss fights or late-game raids where armor penetration matters most — it’s a specialized powerhouse that rewards control and patience over speed and aggression.

6. D-Tier

6.1 Jupiter

Jupiter

The Jupiter is a high-damage energy rifle that stands out for its 55 damage per shot, making it one of the most powerful long-range weapons in Arc Raiders. It’s ideal for players who prefer precision shooting and tactical positioning over rapid fire.

Performance:

• Excels at sniping enemies from long distances, especially tough ARC units.

• Single, high-impact shots make it a precision weapon rather than a spray-and-pray option.

Advantages:

• Exceptional damage per shot — among the highest in the game.
• Perfect for eliminating priority targets such as elite Arcs or exposed players.

• Long-range precision allows you to engage safely while supporting your team.

Caution:

• Slow rate of fire, so missed shots are costly.
• Requires good aim and timing to make the most of its power.

• Not effective in close-quarters combat due to its scoped nature and slow handling.

Tip: Use the Jupiter to control high-ground positions or cover your squad from a distance. Focus on landing every shot, as each one delivers devastating impact. It’s a sniper’s dream weapon — powerful, precise, and perfect for strategic players who prefer to dominate from afar.

6.2 Hairpin

Hairpin Arc Raiders

The Hairpin is widely considered the weakest weapon in Arc Raiders, mainly due to its low damage, very weak arc armor penetration, and the need to reload after every shot. However, it stands out as a specialized stealth weapon, making it useful in niche situations.

Performance:

• Low damage output and poor combat capability in both PvP and PvE.
• Requires a reload after each shot, slowing combat efficiency.

• Extremely quiet, making it ideal for stealth-based looting runs.

Advantages:

• Highest stealth stat in the game, allowing you to fire close to Arc without alerting them.
• The only weapon with an integrated suppressor.

• Lightweight (3 kg) and high agility, meaning less stamina drain while sprinting.

Caution:

• Ineffective in direct combat or against armored enemies.

• Poor choice for raids involving heavy PvP or high-level ARC threats.

Tip: Use the Hairpin when you plan to focus on looting and avoiding detection rather than combat. It’s a great starter or utility weapon for players who prefer stealth missions and want to move fast and quietly through dangerous areas. While it won’t win fights, it can help you survive and extract safely.