If you’re sick and tired of always losing to other PMCs, then maybe you’re not using the best guns and ammo for PVP in Tarkov.
PVP encounters can be quick and unexpected. With not a second to waste, every advantage you can get your hands on will count, especially your weapon and ammunition of choice. I’ve spent countless hours testing different weapons, tweaking my loadouts, and figuring out what works best in actual fights. So, if you’re going for budget runs or high-tier loadouts, knowing what to bring into a raid is really important.
In this guide, I’ll show you the best guns and ammo for PVP in Tarkov, categorized by function and effectiveness. From SMGs to battle rifles, we’ll go over what makes them great and how you can use them effectively.
What Are The Best Guns and Ammo for PVP in Tarkov?
Also Read: The Ultimate EFT Ammo Guide You’ll Ever Need
1. SMGs
In close-range combat, SMGs are some of the best guns for PVP in Tarkov. They have high fire rates, controllable recoil, and are generally lightweight, making them perfect for factory runs or clearing buildings.
- Uzi (Mechanic Level 1 Barter) – One of the cheapest suppressed SMGs in the game, costing around 25,000 rubles. While it has a slower fire rate than some alternatives, this makes it more controllable. Using AP 6.3 or PBP ammo boosts its penetration, but these rounds can get expensive fast.
- MP9 / MP9-N – A fantastic budget SMG, available from Peacekeeper. The MP9 has a 900 RPM fire rate, making it a great head-tapper, while the MP9-N (1100 RPM) burns through ammo even faster. It pairs well with AP 6.3 rounds, which give it solid penetration for an SMG.
- UMP-45 – This is one of my personal favorites. Available on the flea market for around 30K, it can be suppressed and comes ready for attachments. The real reason to run the UMP is its .45 AP ammo (66 damage, 38 penetration), which can tear through Class 4 armor in just a few shots.
- 45 Vector – If you want an absolute bullet hose, this is it. With an 1100 RPM fire rate, even with lower penetration FMJ rounds, this gun shreds. The 30-round mags are an issue early on, but with Skier 2, you can get 30-rounders for cheap.
2. Intermediate Caliber Rifles
These weapons strike a balance between fire rate, penetration, and range, making them some of the best guns for PVP in Tarkov.
- VSS / AS VAL (9x39mm) – The VSS is an insane value for 55,000 rubles, coming pre-suppressed. It uses SP-6 ammo (35 pen), which can punch through Class 4 armor efficiently. However, the small 20-round mag can be a downside in extended fights.
- AK-74U (5.45x39mm) – The 74U is a budget-friendly assault rifle that works well at close range. With BT rounds (37 pen), it’s a solid option. The recoil is rough, so modding is necessary if you want full-auto control.
- G36C (5.56x45mm) – This is my go-to cheap 5.56 rifle. The best budget setup involves swapping the barrel and handguard to the short versions, making it cost around 35K. M855 rounds are cheap and effective early on, while M856A1 (38 pen) provides better armor penetration.
3. 7.62x39mm Rifles
If you want stopping power without breaking the bank, 7.62×39 is a solid choice.
- SKS (OP-SKS Variant) – The OP-SKS is the best budget option if you want a hard-hitting semi-auto rifle. With PP ammo (41 pen, 59 damage), it’s fantastic against Class 4 armor. Plus, you don’t need mags since it can be top-loaded, making it very cost-efficient.
- AK-103 / AK-104 – These are some of the best assault rifles for PVP in Tarkov when it comes to raw damage. They are much cheaper than the AKM and have better base stats. PP ammo is a great budget choice, while BP rounds (47 pen) can shred through armor.
4. 7.62x51mm and 7.62x54R
If you want to pack serious firepower, these calibers are where it’s at.
- RFB (7.62x51mm) – One of the best budget battle rifles in the game. By using the Skier 2 barter, you can get it for as little as 8K rubles. The best part? BCP FMJ rounds (37 pen, 83 damage) can punch through Class 4 armor reliably. It also has excellent range, making it a great all-around weapon.
- SVT-40 (7.62x54R) – A surprising contender in the long-range battle rifle category. It’s available for under 60K and can use 7N1 or LPS ammo (42 pen, 81 damage), which can one-tap Class 4 armor. The downside? You’re stuck with the PU Mosin scope, which isn’t great, but it’s workable.
Also Read: Best Budget Ammo In Tarkov: Cheap Ammunition
5. Shotguns
Shotguns have taken a hit recently due to armor changes, but they’re still viable for certain playstyles.
- MP-153 / MP-155 – The best budget semi-auto shotguns in the game. Flechette rounds are your best bet for chest shots, while Magnum Buckshot is great for leg meta. The MP-153 is slightly better due to its sight options.
- Saiga-12 – If you want a mag-fed semi-auto shotgun, this is your best bet. It works pretty good with Flechette, but the slower fire rate and heavy recoil can make it trickier to handle.
Also Read: The Best Ammo in EFT – Most Overpowered Round
6. DMRs and Precision Rifles
If you prefer a more calculated approach to PVP, Designated Marksman Rifles (DMRs) and precision rifles offer an excellent balance of stopping power and accuracy.
- M1A (7.62x51mm) – A semi-auto powerhouse that works well for mid-to-long-range engagements. The base model is affordable, and with upgrades, it can become one of the best DMRs in Tarkov. It pairs well with M62 (44 pen, 79 damage) or M80 rounds (41 pen, 80 damage), both of which can shred armor.
- RSASS / SR-25 (7.62x51mm) – These rifles are more expensive than the M1A but offer better ergonomics and customization options. They shine in medium-range fights, especially with a good optic.
Conclusion
Choosing your weapon and ammo in EFT is all about balancing what you spend, how effective the gear is, and what suits your style. Remember, the ammo you use can be just as crucial as the gun you pick.
With these best guns and ammo for PVP in Tarkov, you will be a scary force on the battlefield. These weapons, when used by experienced and skilled hands, will significantly increase your chances of winning PVP encounters, ultimately letting you extract more and come home with more loot and kills.
