Introduction
Feeling the sting of bullets and the frustration of dying with a barely-there weapon in Escape from Tarkov? You’re not alone. The harsh realities of Tarkov demand more than just twitch reflexes; they require strategic planning, smart scavenging, and, most importantly, the ability to transform a basic firearm into a deadly tool. This is where the art of gunsmithing comes into play.
Escape from Tarkov, often abbreviated as EFT, is a hardcore, realistic first-person shooter that places you in the war-torn region of Tarkov. Here, survival isn’t just about eliminating the enemy; it’s about managing your gear, looting efficiently, and navigating treacherous environments. Every piece of equipment matters, and your choice of weapon and how you modify it can be the difference between life and death.
Gunsmithing is a core mechanic in EFT, offering players a level of customization that’s both intricate and essential. It allows you to take a standard weapon and tailor it to your specific playstyle, making it more effective at any range, easier to handle, and ultimately, deadlier. From swapping out a stock to adding a scope, the possibilities are extensive, leading to the creation of highly customized firearms. This article, “EFT Gunsmith Part 1,” is your starting point, a beginner’s guide to navigating the gunsmithing system, building your first weapon, and taking your first steps towards becoming a true Tarkov gunsmith.
Accessing the Gunsmithing World
Getting started with gunsmithing in Escape from Tarkov is relatively straightforward. You don’t need a workshop or a specific quest to begin. The process starts by locating your chosen weapon and the interface where the magic happens. There are a few key locations where you can access the gunsmithing menu. The most common method is to interact with a workbench, typically found at your hideout, or at a specific trader’s menu.
Once you’ve accessed a weapon’s customization screen, you’ll be presented with an array of options. The interface is designed for ease of use, and understanding its layout is key to successful modifications. The main area presents your selected weapon and all its attachment slots, allowing you to visualize your future modifications.
These slots represent specific areas of the weapon that can be altered. The most common slots include the muzzle, which takes on attachments like suppressors or compensators; the receiver, holding the weapon’s core components; the handguard, offering space for grips and other accessories; and the stock, affecting stability and ergonomics.
In this interface, you’ll see information related to any potential compatibility issues. Ensure the item you are trying to install properly fits within the current weapon. The game interface will indicate the compatibility of each part, as well as a visual of how the attachment will look when it is installed. This is the first step in building a better weapon.
Weapons and Their Compatibility
Before you start modifying your firearm, understanding weapon compatibility is paramount. Each weapon platform, whether it be an AK variant, an AR-15, or an MP5, is designed around a specific set of components. These platforms typically have their own unique parts and their own interface.
The “Compatibility” tab, often found within the item’s information, offers a crucial overview of which attachments will fit. By reviewing the interface of a selected part, you can check to see whether the item is compatible with your weapon.
Failing to select a compatible item can cause problems during your raid. Not only could the item fail to install, but it will slow down your progress and cause frustration. Understanding this compatibility system is crucial for ensuring a secure fit and optimal performance. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with the platform of your chosen weapon will save time and money in the long run.
Choosing Your Initial Weapon
For new players, selecting the right weapon to begin with is vital. Some weapons are much more versatile and forgiving than others, and some are more available and economical. While there are no truly “bad” weapons in EFT, some are better suited for beginners than others. We’ll begin with a couple of tried-and-true options:
One of the most popular beginner choices is the AK-74U. This weapon is relatively easy to obtain from traders and offers a good balance of power, handling, and readily available modifications. The AK-74U is compact, making it effective in close-quarters combat, and its ammunition is also quite common. The AK-74U is a great weapon to learn the basics of gunsmithing.
Alternatively, the MP-133 shotgun is a viable option, especially if you prefer a close-range fighting style. It’s inexpensive and easy to find parts for. Shotguns are devastating in close-quarters environments.
The Importance of the Weapon Platform
As previously noted, each weapon operates on a specific platform. This influences every aspect of customization, from the types of attachments you can use to how the weapon handles. Common platforms you’ll encounter in EFT include:
The AK platform
This family of weapons includes various AK-47 and AK-74 variants. Known for their robust construction, high reliability, and powerful rounds, they are a favorite among many players. However, AKs can be a bit heavier and more challenging to handle than some other options, depending on configuration.
The AR-15 platform
Highly modular and customizable, AR-15s (also known as M4 or M16 variants) offer excellent ergonomics and a wide range of available attachments. They are known for their accuracy and ease of control.
The MP5 platform
This series of submachine guns excels in close-quarters combat. Compact and easy to handle, the MP5 offers a high rate of fire and is ideal for clearing buildings or close-range engagements.
Essential Modifications – Beginning Adjustments
With your weapon chosen, it’s time to dive into the heart of gunsmithing: the attachments. The most important element to consider is the weapon’s ergonomics. Ergonomics affect how quickly you can raise your weapon, how fast you can aim down sights (ADS), and your general control of the weapon.
To enhance your weapon’s ergonomics, we’ll focus on a few key attachments that directly improve handling:
Foregrips
A good foregrip can vastly improve recoil control and reduce the weapon’s horizontal sway. Choose a foregrip that’s compatible with your weapon’s handguard and offers the best stats for your budget.
Stocks
The stock of your weapon influences its stability and handling. Select a stock that improves both recoil control and ergonomics. Some stocks are adjustable.
Sights
Selecting the right sight is essential. Choose a sight that matches your playstyle. This will greatly affect how well you perform and how easy it is to see other players during combat.
Muzzle devices
Attachments like muzzle brakes and compensators are essential for reducing recoil. Reducing recoil allows you to hit a target more easily, and allows for improved handling.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Your Attachments
Now, let’s walk through the process of attaching some basic modifications. The process is typically the same regardless of the weapon:
1. Open your chosen weapon’s customization screen.
2. Select the slot for the attachment you want to add (e.g., muzzle).
3. Browse the available attachments for that slot. The game will show you a list of available parts.
4. Choose your desired attachment.
5. Confirm your selection. The part will be fitted onto your weapon. You can then repeat this process with other attachments.
Finding Your Parts: A Scavenger’s Guide
Sourcing the attachments you need is a critical part of gunsmithing. You have several options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Traders
Traders are your primary source for attachments. Each trader sells a specific selection of parts, and their stock expands as you level up your reputation with them. You’ll find that most of your early attachment purchases will be made from traders.
Mechanic
Mechanic is the go-to trader for various weapon parts, including barrels, receivers, and many other attachments.
Peacekeeper
Peacekeeper often has Western-style weapon parts.
Flea Market
The Flea Market is a player-to-player marketplace where you can buy and sell items. It offers a vast selection of attachments, sometimes at better prices than traders, but always be mindful of fees and the competition from other players.
When using the Flea Market, use the filter feature to narrow down your search. You can filter by weapon type, attachment type, and even specific stats. This will save you time.
Raids
Attachments can be found during raids as loot. Search for weapon boxes, duffel bags, and other containers.
Testing Your Upgrades
Once you’ve customized your weapon, the final step is to test its performance. The best place to do this is at the shooting range. The shooting range lets you fire your weapon at various targets, allowing you to assess its accuracy, recoil, and handling.
Experiment with different attachments and configurations. Observe how the weapon’s recoil patterns change.
Testing allows you to gain a feel for the weapon and optimize it for your playstyle.
The Power of Modification
Gunsmithing in Escape from Tarkov can be a complex art, but it’s a rewarding one. By understanding the interface, choosing the right attachments, and taking the time to test your creations, you can transform basic weapons into effective tools for survival. Even making simple modifications can greatly improve your weapon’s performance.
This is just the beginning. The depth of the gunsmithing system offers countless possibilities. Keep experimenting, keep learning, and keep modifying. In “EFT Gunsmith Part 2,” we will dive deeper into advanced customization options. By using these core concepts, you are one step closer to becoming a skilled gunsmith.
