Escape From Tarkov (EFT) has gained a reputation among hardcore FPS fans for its in-depth weapon mechanics and customization. With over 60 firearms to choose from, all with detailed stats and handling characteristics, you have plenty of options when gearing up for a raid. But with ammo types, armor penetration values, recoil, and other factors to consider, it can be tricky to know which weapons are the current best.
That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re a new player looking to gain an edge or a veteran trying to keep up with the changing meta, we’ve outlined the top tier weapons currently available in EFT patch 0.13.5. While skill and strategy are still paramount, bringing one of these firearms along substantially improves your chances of getting fat loot and escaping with your life and limbs intact.
We’ve categorized the weapons and ranked the very best in S-tier down through A-tier alternatives. There’s no universal “best gun” – it comes down to your playstyle and what you can access via trader levels or flea market purchases. But generally, the S-tier picks have the right blend of stats, versatility, armor penetration, efficiency, and sheer stopping power to rise above the rest. So let’s get into it!
Assault Rifles
Assault rifles offer a balance of firepower and mobility, with the ability to mount optics and attachments that transform them into adaptable killing machines. They are among the most popular and versatile weapon categories in EFT. The best options provide high rates of fire with manageable recoil while accepting magazines of 20-30+ rounds of armor piercing ammunition.
S-Tier
HK 416A5
The HK416 assault rifle boasts a blistering fire rate of 850 RPM and low recoil, making it extremely controllable even in full auto. It accepts 5.56×45 ammo, and when loaded with M995 it can penetrate even class 6 body armor with ease. Add in the plethora of customization options, and it’s easy to see why this is a go-to rifle for seasoned PMCs.
M4A1
Few weapons match the iconic status of the M4 among EFT players. Accepting the same 5.56×45 rounds as the HK416, the M4 brings a slightly lower 800 RPM rate of fire but is even more modular and customizable. It also has a bit less recoil, further aiding control during rapid fire. The M4’s reputation is well-earned, and it remains a top tier choice for those who have access to Peacekeeper LL2 for consistent ammo.
A-Tier
AK-74M
The AK-74M and other AK-74 variants are known for reliability. Though they have higher recoil than 5.56 NATO options, their versatility with 5.45×39 ammo makes them perfectly viable from early to late wipe. Use BP or BT for early armor penetration, then switch to BS and 7N39 to tear through the thickest body armor with ease.
SCAR-L
For those seeking an alternative to the M4 platform, the SCAR-L offers a bit more punch with 7.62x51mm NATO rounds while maintaining low recoil. It’s not as customizable as an M4 or HK416, but it brings excellent stopping power and can mount grips and sights for solid versatility.
Submachine Guns
Submachine guns trade raw firepower for extreme mobility and fast aim down sights speed. They excel in CQB and rapid target acquisition at short ranges. Large magazine capacities and high rates of fire also make them potent finishers when your primary runs dry.
S-Tier
MP7A2
With a blistering rate of fire at 950 RPM and the ability to load 40+ round mags, the MP7A2 is like a bullet hose for point blank destruction. Its 4.6x30mm FMJ ammo can penetrate class 4 armor with ease and class 5 with some difficulty. Add its low weight, SMG handling, and high muzzle velocity, and you have an elite CQB option.
UMP 45
Slower firing than the MP7 but packing more punch, the UMP 45 delivers .45 ACP rounds at a consistent 600 RPM. The reduced rate helps manage recoil, allowing tight bullet groupings, but each shot brings tremendous stopping power. Once you unlock AP ammo, it can even penetrate class 5 armor – not bad for a humble SMG!
A-Tier
P90
An ultra-compact bullpup SMG, the P90 brings a whopping 50 round magazine capacity that allows sustained suppression of targets within 100m. Though its AP ammo tops out at class 4 penetration, high RoF and laser-like handling make it a force in close quarters.
SR-2M
Similar to the MP9, the SR-2M fires 9x21mm ammo at a blistering 900 RPM – even faster than the MP7. Magazines are limited to 20 rounds, but its flesh ammo absolutely shreds unarmored targets. Just don’t expect penetration against PMCs with level 3+ armor.
Marksman Rifles
Marksman rifles bridge the gap between assault rifles and dedicated sniper rifles. They offer versatile semi-automatic fire, larger calibers, and increased range over regular assault rifles at the cost of less automatic spray. Aiming for headshots is key to maximizing their damage potential.
S-Tier
M1A
The M1A brings the hard hitting 7.62x51mm NATO round under control with a semi-auto delivery system. 20 round mags, great accuracy at range, and stopping power make this an excellent all-around choice for those who favor well-placed shots over full auto spray.
VSS Vintorez
Integrally suppressed and firing specialty SP-5 and SP-6 ammo, the Vintorez is built for stealth CQB while still able to reach out to mid-range. Its penetration is limited, but subsonic shots are hard to track and it can still reliably kill any target with a head or chest shot. Unique and deadly in the right hands.
A-Tier
SVD
The SVD provides mid-range versatility with its semi-auto 7.62x54R firing. Increased barrel length improves accuracy while a 10 round mag and capable 600 RPM rate provide solid follow up shots. Moderate recoil but still controllable with practice.
SKS
One of the most cost effective starting rifles, the semi-auto SKS packs a punch with 7.62×39 rounds. Though lacking in modification options, it’s accurate, hits hard, and can quickly drop low-mid tier enemies. Reliable but outclassed later once PMCs sport tier 5+ armor.
Sniper Rifles
When you need to reach out and touch someone from extreme distance with no mercy, a proper sniper rifle gets the job done. Though bolt action, their high caliber rounds have immense stopping power and the accuracy for those crucial long range headshots.
S-Tier
Mosin (.366 TKM)
The venerable Mosin scarcely needs an introduction – it’s cheap, reliable, and delivers a knockout punch with .366 rounds that can penetrate even class 5 armor. At long distances, a single head or thorax shot is frequently lethal no matter what your target is wearing. New players and veterans alike respect the Mosin.
SV-98 (7.62x54R)
The SV-98 improves upon the Mosin design with a detachable 10 round magazine and slightly lower recoil. It has less aesthetic appeal perhaps, but remains a supremely viable sniper platform across all levels and especially when alternating between AP, fragmentation, and incendiary 7.62x54R rounds as needed.
A-Tier
M700
The M700 is an excellent mid-tier sniper rifle firing 7.62x51mm NATO rounds. Rivals the Mosin in reliability but lacks iron sights – optics are mandatory. However, with 10 round mags and indexer clips for quick reloading, it occupies a nice middle ground between the Mosin and high level alternatives.
Closing Thoughts
And there you have it – a comprehensive breakdown of the current best guns and meta weapons in Escape From Tarkov patch 0.13.5. Remember that the meta is always evolving as the developers adjust stats and mechanics with new patches and wipes, so refer back regularly!
The S-tier picks above are virtually unmatched right now in their respective classes due to great base stats, top-tier ammo penetration, ease of modification, availability, and overall versatility. No matter your budget or playstyle, one of these firearms will give you an advantage in firefights.
Of course, your skill as a player still matters more than any weapon stats. Proper positioning, aim, game sense and other abilities determine victory more than anything. But equipping yourself with one of the top tier weapons above helps stack the odds in your favor.
Now that you know the best firearms and ammo types available, get out there and start accumulating some rubles and gear. We’ll see you on the extraction! Just listen for the gunshots and screams…
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