While many players chase the meta guns in Tarkov, several underrated weapons consistently outperform expectations in both PvP and PvE situations. These firearms often fly under the radar due to their unconventional stats or appearance, but they provide surprising efficiency in combat when used correctly. Mastering these weapons can give you a tactical edge over opponents who are overly focused on popular loadouts. In this guide, we break down why these overlooked weapons still dominate and how to maximize their potential in raids.
Understanding why some weapons are underrated is critical. It’s not always about damage per shot; recoil control, mobility, availability of ammunition, and the ability to be customized also play crucial roles. Weapons that are cheap or commonly ignored can become game-changers when used by a skilled operator who understands timing, positioning, and synergy with other gear.
SMGs That Punch Above Their Weight
Submachine guns often get dismissed in favor of assault rifles and marksman rifles, but some SMGs deliver excellent close-quarters dominance. For instance, the PP-19-01 Vityaz or the MP5 variants may not have flashy damage numbers, but their manageable recoil, fast fire rate, and high ammo capacity make them lethal in tight corridors and indoors. Players who prioritize speed and mobility can outmaneuver enemies relying on slower, heavier weapons.
Using SMGs effectively requires understanding their engagement range limitations. Outside of 50 meters, damage and accuracy drop significantly, but inside buildings and narrow pathways, these guns can shred enemies faster than most rifles. Pairing them with ergonomic attachments and quality ammunition ensures consistent performance in aggressive raids where reaction time is critical.
Marksman Rifles With Surprising Versatility
Marksman rifles are often overlooked due to their slower rate of fire, but weapons like the SV-98 or the SVD show tremendous versatility when wielded by a tactical player. While not as rapid as assault rifles, their high damage output allows for one-shot or two-shot kills on armored targets. Skilled use requires understanding bullet drop, range engagement, and terrain advantage, but when mastered, these rifles can dominate open areas and provide essential overwatch support for your team.
Customization is key to unlocking the potential of these rifles. Suppressors, optics, and recoil-control attachments turn a slow but precise rifle into a flexible tool capable of countering both long-range threats and mid-range skirmishes. Players who combine patient positioning with accurate marksmanship often turn underestimated rifles into unstoppable instruments of survival.
Pistols That Save Lives
Sidearms are usually considered backup tools, but certain pistols can outperform expectations. The M1911, GSh-18, and TT-33 are lightweight, fast to deploy, and surprisingly effective in close-quarters combat. Experienced players often carry these pistols alongside heavier weapons to exploit moments where the main weapon is inconvenient or out of ammo. Pistols’ rapid reloads and maneuverability make them excellent secondary options in building raids or during sudden enemy encounters.
Using pistols effectively requires anticipating enemy movement and maintaining composure under pressure. Unlike rifles, which rely on range control, pistols demand precision, tactical retreats, and aggressive positioning. A well-timed headshot with an underestimated sidearm can turn the tide in what would otherwise be a losing engagement, making them invaluable for players who master versatility.
Shotguns That Punish Close Encounters
Shotguns often get ignored by players chasing high-damage rifles, but weapons like the Saiga-12 or the MP-153 can dominate hallways and confined zones. Their high burst damage and wide spread make them ideal for clearing rooms quickly, particularly when enemies are grouped or unaware. Despite a lower rate of fire and limited ammo capacity, understanding positioning and movement with shotguns allows players to excel in surprise attacks.
Effective shotgun play requires map knowledge and timing. Anticipating enemy routes and ambushing them at choke points leverages the weapon’s strengths. When combined with tactical gear, armor-piercing shells, and proper ergonomics, these often-underrated weapons can outperform more popular rifles in close-range firefights, especially against players expecting traditional loadouts.
Conclusion
Underrated weapons in Tarkov offer unique advantages that can outperform meta favorites when used correctly. SMGs dominate indoor engagements, marksman rifles provide overwatch versatility, pistols offer life-saving options in tight spots, and shotguns punish unsuspecting opponents in close quarters. By learning the strengths and weaknesses of these overlooked tools, players can gain a significant edge in survival and combat efficiency.
Experimenting with these weapons, customizing them for your playstyle, and practicing engagement strategies ensures that you maximize their potential. Understanding map layouts, enemy tendencies, and optimal positioning further enhances performance, turning these underrated weapons into your most reliable assets for dominating Tarkov raids.