Escape from Tarkov Gear Guide: Best Equipment

Tarkov’s harsh, unforgiving world demands that you equip yourself not just for battle, but for survival.

Your gear isn’t just about looking cool; it’s the difference between escaping with your life and loot, or becoming another corpse for someone else to pick over.

Whether you’re a fresh-faced Scav or a hardened PMC veteran, this comprehensive guide will help you assemble the perfect loadout for any situation.

Essential Gear Categories

Before we dive into specific recommendations, let’s break down the essential gear categories you need to consider:

1. Armor: Your first line of defense against bullets and shrapnel. Choose wisely, as the right armor can save your life.
2. Helmet: Protect your noggin from those stray headshots. Helmets can also offer additional benefits like noise reduction or increased awareness.
3. Backpack: Your trusty companion for carrying all that sweet loot. Size and functionality matter, so choose a backpack that suits your playstyle.
4. Weapons: The tools of the trade. Consider your budget, preferred playstyle, and the specific map you’re tackling.
5. Ammo: The lifeblood of your weapons. Choosing the right ammo type can significantly impact your damage output and penetration.
6. Medical Supplies: Healing is crucial for survival. Pack a variety of meds for different injuries, and don’t forget painkillers to keep you in the fight.
7. Utilities: These include items like grenades, flashlights, and tools. They can be essential for gaining a tactical advantage or escaping sticky situations.

Armor: Finding the Right Fit

Armor is a complex beast in Tarkov, with varying levels of protection, durability, and mobility. Here are some recommendations for different budgets and playstyles:

• Budget: PACA Soft Armor (cheap, good mobility), 6B43 6A Armor (affordable, decent protection)
• Mid-Range: FORT Redut-T5 Armor (great balance of protection and mobility), HighCom Trooper TFO Armor (lightweight and comfortable)
• High-End: Zhuk-6a Armor (top-tier protection, but heavy and bulky), Killa Armor (extremely durable, but expensive and restrictive)

Pro Tip: Always check armor stats carefully, paying attention to protection zones, durability, and movement penalties.

Helmets: Shielding Your Skull

A good helmet can save you from a one-tap headshot. Choose one that offers adequate protection and doesn’t hinder your hearing or situational awareness.

• Budget: SSh-68 Helmet (cheap, decent protection), ZSh-1-2M Helmet (affordable, good all-arounder)
• Mid-Range: LZSh ZSh-1-2M Helmet (improved version of the ZSh-1-2M), Ops-Core FAST MT Helmet (lightweight with good protection)
• High-End: Altyn Helmet (top-tier protection, but expensive and heavy), Team Wendy EXFIL Ballistic Helmet (great balance of protection and comfort)

Pro Tip: Consider using a headset with good directional audio to compensate for any hearing restrictions imposed by your helmet.

Backpacks: Hauling Your Haul

The right backpack can make or break your raid. Choose one with enough space for your loot, but don’t overload yourself with unnecessary weight.

• Small: Scav Backpack (great for quick raids), MBSS Backpack (good for pistol runs)
• Medium: 3V Gear “Paratus” 3-Day Operator’s Tactical Backpack (versatile all-rounder), SSO “Attack 2” Raid Backpack (lots of internal pockets)
• Large: 6SH118 Raid Backpack (massive capacity, but heavy and bulky), Mystery Ranch Blackjack 50 Backpack (comfortable and spacious)

Pro Tip: Organize your backpack for quick access to essential items like meds and ammo.

Weapons and Ammo: Picking Your Arsenal

Your weapon choice depends on your playstyle, budget, and the specific map you’re tackling. Here are some popular options for each category:

• Assault Rifles: AK-74N, M4A1, HK 416A5
• Submachine Guns: MP5, Vector, MP7
• Shotguns: Saiga-12, MP-153, Remington 870
• Designated Marksman Rifles: SKS, VSS Vintorez, SVD
• Sniper Rifles: Mosin Nagant, RSASS, DVL-10

Pro Tip: Match your ammo type to your target’s armor. Armor-piercing rounds are essential for taking down heavily armored enemies.

Medical Supplies: Patching Yourself Up

Don’t neglect your health in Tarkov. A well-stocked med kit can save your life.

• Essential: AI-2 Medkit, Grizzly Medkit, Salewa FIRST AID KIT
• Pain Management: Ibuprofen, Analgin Painkillers
• Bleeding Control: Tourniquets, Hemostatic Applicators
• Fracture Treatment: Splints

Pro Tip: Learn the different types of injuries and the most effective meds for treating them.

This guide is just the beginning. Tarkov’s complex systems and vast array of gear options offer endless possibilities for customization and experimentation.

Explore, adapt, and find what works best for you. Remember, survival is a skill honed through experience.

Stay tuned for more in-depth guides on specific gear, weapons, and Escape of Tarkov tips to help you master the brutal in-game world!