Escape from Tarkov Ammo: A Guide to Picking the Best Rounds

What you need to know about Escape from Tarkov ammo

Escape from Tarkov (EFT) ammo isn’t like other shooters. Your choice of ammunition dramatically affects your damage output, regardless of the weapon. Unlike other games, EFT ammo isn’t just a balancing factor. It directly impacts how much damage you inflict on enemies and how you need to approach different situations. Understanding these intricacies is crucial for effective gameplay, especially given the various weapon types and armor types that players encounter.

9×19 mm

9×19 mm rounds are primarily effective at close range. Pistols and submachine guns often utilize this caliber, but they aren’t the most powerful options in EFT. They offer lower damage per bullet compared to other calibers. While decent for close-quarters combat, their performance against heavily armored targets is limited. However, some 9×19 mm rounds, such as the AP 6.3, excel at penetrating light armor. These specialized rounds are typically found through merchants at higher loyalty tiers.

5.56×45 mm

5.56×45 mm rounds, commonly used in assault rifles, are a powerhouse against both lightly and heavily armored targets. They offer a good balance between speed and damage. The M995 variety is a high-performance option, but it demands a higher loyalty level with merchants. Alternative options like the M855A1 are readily available and perform well in combat. The Warmage rounds are excellent for maximizing direct damage. Keep in mind that different manufacturers have their own variations of the same caliber, each with slightly different performance.

5.45×39 mm

The 5.45×39 mm is the preferred round for AK-74 and similar rifles. It often offers high speed and damage that complements many assault rifle loadouts. This caliber has a multitude of specialized rounds, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Rounds like the 7N39 “Igolnik” excel at armor penetration, though they are often harder to obtain. The BS and HP rounds provide good alternatives, balancing damage with armor penetration.

7.62×51 mm

7.62×51 mm ammunition is widely utilized in sniper rifles and some assault rifles. These rounds are exceptionally effective at long ranges, with high penetration that is typically suited for sniper rifles and long-range engagements. The M61 round offers great armor penetration, but requires significant effort to obtain. Alternative rounds like the Ultra Nosler prioritize direct damage, making them suitable for situations where armor penetration is less critical.

7.62×39 mm

7.62×39 mm ammunition is often used in carbines like the Vepr KM. It delivers significant damage, making it an effective choice for medium-range combat. The BP round offers a fantastic balance of damage and penetration. Unfortunately, alternative rounds like the HP variety, though potentially high-damage, are limited in their armor penetration. The US rounds are a subsonic alternative, perfect for stealthy engagements, but often come with a cost in terms of damage potential.

So, which Escape from Tarkov ammo should you use?

Choosing the right ammo in EFT comes down to understanding your targets and the environment. There’s no single “best” ammo for every scenario. Consider both the target’s armor and the damage needed to effectively take them down. You must choose ammo that suits your playstyle and targets. For instance, if you’re facing enemies wearing light armor, flesh damage will suffice. However, if they’re heavily armored, you need armor-piercing ammo. The best ammo is the one that maximizes your chances of surviving and succeeding in firefights while keeping your budget in mind.

Prioritize rounds that balance flesh damage and armor penetration for a versatile approach. Recognize that ammo costs vary. While higher-tier ammo might deliver exceptional performance, it often comes at a premium, affecting your economy. Your merchant relationships and loyalty levels significantly influence your access to specific ammunition types. Ultimately, the best ammo strategy is one that fits your overall playstyle and targets effectively, not just relying on theoretical “best” options.