Shotgun Ammo Guide: How Arc Raiders Players Manage and Use It

If you’re playing Arc Raiders, one of the first things you’ll notice is that ammo management is more important than in many other action games. Shotguns, in particular, have their own unique mechanics and strategies. Here’s a practical guide to how Shotgun Ammo works, what weapons use it, and how most players approach it in the game.

What is Shotgun Ammo and How Does It Work?

Shotgun Ammo in Arc Raiders is a common type of ammunition, but it’s strictly for shotguns. It is not interchangeable with other weapon types like rifles or pistols, so managing it separately is important.

• Weight: Each unit of Shotgun Ammo weighs 0.085, which is relatively light. Most players carry several stacks without feeling too burdened.

• Stack Size: You can carry up to 20 rounds per stack. This makes it easy to organize your inventory, especially if you’re carrying multiple types of ammo.

• Sell Price: Each unit has a nominal sell price of 20, though most players rarely sell it unless they are trying to free up inventory space.

In general, Shotgun Ammo is used quickly during close combat scenarios, so it’s common to run out faster than with other ammo types. Players usually keep a few extra stacks in their inventory or stash to avoid running dry in the middle of a mission.

How Do You Get Shotgun Ammo?

There are two main ways to acquire Shotgun Ammo:

1. Buying from Vendors: In the game, the vendor Tian Wen sells Shotgun Ammo directly. Most players visit him to top up before a mission, especially if they plan on using shotguns heavily.

2. Crafting: Shotgun Ammo can also be crafted at Workbench 1 using the following materials:

   • 3× Metal Parts

   • 2× Chemicals This combination produces 5 rounds of Shotgun Ammo per crafting cycle. Crafting is generally preferred by players who have a surplus of materials, as it can be more efficient than buying during long play sessions.

Which Shotguns Use This Ammo?

Not all shotguns in Arc Raiders are created equal, and knowing which one to equip can impact your effectiveness in battle. Here’s a look at two commonly used shotguns:

• Il Toro (Uncommon):

  • Damage: 67.5 per shot

  • Firing Mode: Single

  • Range: 20 Most players find the Il Toro reliable for early- to mid-game missions due to its high damage, even though its range is limited.

• Vulcano (Epic):

  • Damage: 49.5 per shot

  • Firing Mode: Single

  • Range: 26 The Vulcano is slightly weaker per shot, but the increased range makes it useful in missions where enemies may engage from a distance. Many experienced players switch to the Vulcano for versatility.

In general, the Il Toro is preferred for raw damage output, while the Vulcano is more situational, often used when you need to hit targets from further away.

Practical Tips for Using Shotgun Ammo

Most players approach Shotgun Ammo with a few key strategies in mind:

1. Inventory Management: Since each stack holds 20 rounds, it’s easy to lose track of your ammo if you carry multiple weapons. Keeping a separate section in your inventory for shotguns helps.

2. Conservation: Shotguns consume ammo quickly, especially in situations where multiple enemies are grouped. Experienced players often aim carefully and avoid spraying shots unnecessarily.

3. Backup Plan: It’s wise to carry at least one secondary weapon with a different ammo type in case you run out. This is standard in general player behavior.

4. Crafting Efficiency: If you’re crafting your own Shotgun Ammo, try to do it in batches. For example, 15 Metal Parts and 10 Chemicals will give you 25 rounds, which is more efficient than crafting 5 rounds at a time.

Some players also explore options to buy arc raiders items in bulk before missions. While this doesn’t directly increase your ammo, it ensures you have all the resources needed to craft or upgrade your weapons, including shotguns.

Common Mistakes New Players Make

Even experienced players see newcomers make the same errors repeatedly. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring Weight: Shotgun Ammo may seem light, but carrying too many stacks along with heavy weapons can slow you down. Keep a balance.

• Using Shotguns at Long Range: Shotguns are short-range weapons. Many new players waste ammo trying to hit distant targets instead of switching to a rifle or other ranged weapon.

• Underestimating Crafting Needs: Running out of chemicals or metal parts mid-mission can leave you unable to craft more ammo. Keeping a small stash of crafting materials is usually safer.

Shotgun Ammo is a common but essential resource for close-quarters combat in Arc Raiders. Most players acquire it through crafting or buying from vendors like Tian Wen. The Il Toro and Vulcano are the two main shotguns you’ll see in use, each with its own advantages. Managing inventory, conserving ammo, and keeping crafting materials on hand are all standard practices among experienced players. Following these strategies will help you avoid running out of ammo during critical moments and make your shotgun gameplay more effective overall.

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