Check out the top Level 2 Trader builds in Tarkov to dominate in raids!
When you reach Level 2 traders in EFT, the game feels awkwardly different. You’ve made it past the rough early grind, but you’re still not swimming in top-tier gear. That’s where Level 2 Trader Builds in Tarkov come into play.
In this guide, I’ll show you the best Level 2 (LL2) Trader Builds in Tarkov that I’ve personally tested in Patch .16 and have been my bread and butter during mid-wipe of this update.
From rifles to SMGs, I’ll cover what works, what doesn’t, and how you can tweak each setup to fit your playstyle.
Best Level 2 Trader Builds in Tarkov
1. Prapor LL2
The Budget Powerhouse
Prapor Level 2 is a lifesaver when it comes to cheap but effective weapons. One standout option is the VSK-94, a unique suppressed rifle chambered in 9x39mm. While the SP5 ammo isn’t amazing against Level 4 armor, it’s still solid for taking down lightly armored enemies. You can mount an OKP-7 reflex sight from Skier LL2 for better target acquisition.
Another fantastic Level 2 Trader Build in Tarkov from Prapor is the AKM. It’s a beast in close to mid-range fights, and you’ll need one for the Punisher Part 1 quest anyway. By swapping in a MOE AKM handguard (FDE) from Peacekeeper LL2, adding a Bastion dust cover for optics, and throwing on an RK-4 foregrip, you get a solid build that hits hard.
Also Read: What is the Best Tarkov SMG? The Close-Quarters Killer
2. Skier LL2
Mid-Range Specialists
Skier Level 2 offers some great 5.45 AK variants, including the AKS-74U Short Barrel. It comes with a built-in CQB muzzle brake, making it manageable even in full-auto. A Romeo 07 sight, combined with a foregrip like the RK-4, makes this a surprisingly stable and effective weapon.
Another strong pick is the RFB, which you can get in exchange for two gas analyzers. It’s a semi-auto .308 rifle, meaning it hits hard, but its biggest downside is the lack of good ammo at this level. Your best bet is TCW SP rounds, which work decently against Level 3 armor but struggle against Level 4. If you can find M62 rounds in a raid, save them—they’ll turn this rifle into a powerhouse.
When using Skier LL2 weapons, mid-range engagements are where they shine. They may not be the best for CQB, but if you play smart, these builds can carry you well into the mid-wipe.
Also Read: How to Find Hideout Items in Tarkov Fast
3. Peacekeeper LL2
The SMG King
If you prefer fast-firing, low-recoil guns, Peacekeeper LL2 has some great choices. The MPX is a prime example—it’s easy to handle, customizable, and available for about $240. You can swap barrels for the 6.75-inch SD suppressor, add a Ronin 12 suppressor, and use an RK-4 grip for stability. A Delta Point sight works beautifully on it.
The UMP-45 is another solid option. It’s simple to build—just add a foregrip, an X400 laser, and a suppressor for stealth. However, its biggest downside is the ammo. Match FMJ (25 pen) is the best you’ll get at Level 2, which means aiming for headshots is crucial.
Both of these Level 2 Trader Builds in Tarkov are fantastic for close-quarters fights. If you like aggressive playstyles, these SMGs will serve you well. Just remember that ammo limitations mean you should avoid prolonged fights against heavily armored enemies.
4. Mechanic LL2
The High-Tech Option
Mechanic LL2 offers some interesting choices, particularly for those who like to modify their guns. While his selection is more niche, the ADAR 2-15 is a strong semi-auto option. It’s basically an M4 but cheaper, and you can swap parts from Peacekeeper to make it more stable.
One underrated Level 2 Trader Build in Tarkov is modifying an M4A1 using parts from both Mechanic and Peacekeeper. The gun itself is expensive, and the 5.56 ammo at Level 2 is underwhelming, but if you can loot M855A1 rounds, it becomes much stronger.
For budget-focused players, Mechanic also sells some modular parts that can help tweak existing weapons. If you find an SKS, consider using Mechanic’s parts to improve its handling. While not the best trader at this level, he provides useful attachments to upgrade your existing arsenal.
Best Ammo Choices for Level 2 Trader Builds
One of the biggest challenges at Level 2 is finding decent ammo. Most trader-sold rounds struggle against higher-tier armor, meaning you need to either loot ammo from enemies or make smart shot placements.
- 9x39mm SP5 (Prapor) – Good against unarmored enemies, struggles against Level 4.
- 7.62x39mm FMJ (Prapor) – Decent damage, but poor armor penetration.
- 5.45x39mm FMJ (Skier) – Slightly better than PS rounds, but still weak against heavy armor.
- .308 TCW SP (Skier) – Okay for headshots, but unreliable for chest shots against armor.
- 9x19mm PST GZH (Peacekeeper) – Solid for SMGs, decent pen.
- .45 ACP Match FMJ (Peacekeeper) – Best for UMP-45, but headshots are a must.
The best strategy? Loot ammo whenever possible. Scavs and Raiders often carry better rounds than what traders sell, so always check their pockets and rigs.
My Favorite Level 2 Trader Build in Tarkov
My go-to setup for Level 2 Trader Builds in Tarkov is the AKM from Prapor LL2. It’s versatile, powerful, and still budget-friendly.
Here’s my favorite way to run it:
- MOE AKM Handguard (FDE) – Peacekeeper LL2
- Bastion Dust Cover – Skier LL1
- RK-4 Foregrip – Skier LL2
- Saw-Style Pistol Grip – Mechanic LL2
- DTK-1 Muzzle Brake – Mechanic LL2
- PS Rounds (Looted from Scavs)
This setup works in all situations, from close-quarters fights to mid-range battles. Sure, it’s not a laser beam, but the recoil is manageable, and the stopping power is solid.
Conclusion
Level 2 Trader Builds in Tarkov are all about maximizing efficiency. You won’t have the best gear, but with the right setups, you can still dominate fights. Whether you prefer AKs, SMGs, or semi-auto rifles, there’s a build that fits your style.
Experiment with different setups, loot better ammo, and soon enough, you’ll be ready for Level 3 traders. If you are serious about improving as an Escape From Tarkov player, you should definitely check out StealthCore’s EFT blog. From the best weapons and builds to honing your survival skills in raids, we for you covered.
