The new boss is here! Learn how to kill Sanitar in Tarkov with our in-depth boss guide.
Sanitar is considered one of the most challenging bosses in Tarkov, not due to his heavy armor or extreme aggression, but because his movements can be quite unpredictable. He’s accompanied by two heavily armed guards, making him a deadly encounter if you’re not ready.
Unlike other bosses who rely on raw firepower, Sanitar uses medical skills to heal himself and his guards, extending fights longer than usual.
Throughout my experience in fighting Sanitar, I’ve learned that patience and smart positioning are key. In this guide, I’ll help you learn how to kill Sanitar in Tarkov, covering gear, spawn rotations, combat tactics, and survival strategies.
Also Read: All Bosses in Tarkov and How to Kill Them
Best Loadout for Killing Sanitar
Sanitar isn’t heavily armored, but his guards are. That means you need a weapon that can handle both. Here’s what I recommend:
Weapons
- M4 (6.8 SPC) – Solid damage and accuracy.
- SR-25 / MDR / Spear – Semi-auto rifles with good penetration.
- Any weapon with M80, M62, or 5.56 M855A1 rounds – These rounds are great against armor.
Grenades
- Bring at least 7-8 grenades to flush him out. Sanitar tends to stay put, and grenades force him to reposition, making him easier to engage.
Stims
- SJ6 Stim – Useful for quick rotations across the map.
- Trimadol – Helps with pain management during fights.
Armor & Helmet
- Class 5 or higher armor to survive guard attacks.
- Headset to hear his movements better.
Also Read: How to Kill Tagilla in Tarkov: EFT Boss Guide
Where to Find Sanitar (Spawn Locations)
Sanitar has three primary spawn locations on Shoreline, and knowing them is crucial if you want to take him down before other players interfere. If you want to dominate in PvP, you should check out our blogs.
- Resort (West and East Wings) – This is his most common spawn and arguably the most dangerous. If he’s here, expect close-quarters fights in tight hallways.
- Pier (Gas Station Area) – A less common spawn, but still deadly. He has plenty of cover and can spot you from a distance.
- Cottages – This is the easiest location to engage him since it offers more open ground, allowing for better positioning and flanking.
Your approach depends on your spawn. If you start near Cottages, check there first before moving to the Pier or Resort. If you spawn near Radar, prioritize Resort and then Pier. Understanding the map layout and spawn timings will help you get the drop on him.
How to Kill Sanitar in Tarkov
Once you determine where Sanitar is, the next step is approaching carefully. Rushing in blindly is a recipe for disaster, especially since his guards can take you out before you even see him.
Always assume that other PMCs might be nearby, as Sanitar is a high-value target that attracts a lot of players. Here’s what I’ve learned from fighting him multiple times:
1. Clearing Cottages
- Stick close to the right fence while approaching, this keeps you covered from potential threats.
- Throw a grenade inside to check for movement. If you don’t hear any reaction, it doesn’t necessarily mean he isn’t there, as he and his guards can sometimes remain silent.
- Jump-check through windows before pushing in. This helps spot enemies without exposing yourself too much.
2. Engaging at Pier
- Stick to cover along the shoreline to avoid getting caught in the open.
- Watch out for PMC spawns nearby. Since Pier is a common loot area, players frequently pass through, increasing the risk of a third-party engagement.
- Use long-range weapons to pick off guards before engaging Sanitar. If you take out his protection first, dealing with him becomes significantly easier.
- If he’s inside a building, toss grenades to flush him out. Sanitar tends to stay put, so grenades are one of the best ways to force him into a vulnerable position. Be mindful of angles, as his guards can still cover him from inside.
3. Fighting in Resort
- Expect tight corners and ambushes. This is the most dangerous of Sanitar’s spawn locations due to the enclosed spaces and limited escape routes.
- Use right-hand peeks to minimize exposure. Resort’s layout allows for plenty of peeking opportunities, and proper positioning can give you an advantage.
- Check windows before pushing in. Sanitar or his guards may be aiming at you from above, and they have no hesitation in taking shots through open spaces.
- If you hear him healing, push aggressively while he’s vulnerable.
Also Read: How to Defeat The Goons in Tarkov: Boss Guide
Combat Tactics Against Sanitar
Sanitar’s behavior is different from other bosses. He prefers to heal rather than charge at you, making him unpredictable. Here’s how to handle him:
- Use Right-Hand Peeks – Always use cover and peek from the right side. It minimizes exposure while keeping your gun ready to fire.
- Bait His Healing – If you damage him and back off, he’ll often start healing. This is your chance to rush in and finish him.
- Grenade Pressure – If he’s hiding, throw grenades into the room to force movement. He won’t stay still for long.
- Flank Guards First – His guards are the real threat. Take them out before focusing on Sanitar himself.
- Watch for Unexpected Positions – He can sometimes appear in spots you don’t expect, like windows or odd corners.
Dealing with Sanitar’s Guards
Sanitar’s guards are heavily armored and aggressive. They won’t hesitate to push if you’re caught off guard.
- Keep Distance – Engaging them up close is risky. Use mid-to-long-range weapons.
- Grenade First, Shoot Second – A well-placed grenade can cripple their movement, making them easier to pick off.
- Jiggle Peek & Play Defensive – If they start pushing, don’t overexpose yourself. Peek quickly and take controlled shots.
Conclusion
Sanitar may not be the hardest boss in Tarkov, but he’s definitely one of the most unpredictable. Understanding his spawn points, using the right gear, and applying smart combat tactics will give you the upper hand.
If you stay patient, control the fight, and take out his guards first, you’ll master how to kill Sanitar in Tarkov with ease.
