In the vast and unforgiving world of Tarkov, choosing the right ammunition for your 12-gauge shotgun is paramount to survival. With its versatility and devastating power, the 12-gauge reigns supreme in close-quarters combat. However, navigating the labyrinthine offerings of 12g ammo types can be a daunting task. To assist you in this endeavor, we present to you the definitive guide to the best 12g ammo Tarkov has to offer. Prepare yourself to dominate the battlegrounds with precision and lethality.
The 12g buckshot is a formidable force in the realm of close-range engagements. Its spread of pellets delivers devastating damage upon impact, making it ideal for breaching doors, clearing rooms, and engaging multiple targets simultaneously. However, its effectiveness diminishes rapidly with distance, requiring you to close the gap between you and your adversary. For those seeking a balance between close-range stopping power and penetration, the 12g magnum buckshot emerges as a viable option. Its larger pellets and increased velocity provide greater range and armor-piercing capabilities, allowing you to engage targets with more confidence from a slightly further distance.
As the distance between you and your target increases, the 12g slug emerges as the undisputed king of precision and penetration. Its solid projectile retains its energy over longer distances, ensuring consistent accuracy and devastating impact. Whether engaging heavily armored opponents or taking down distant threats, the 12g slug delivers unmatched precision and lethality. However, its limited magazine capacity and slower rate of fire demand careful planning and impeccable shot placement. With the right strategy and unwavering aim, the 12g slug transforms your shotgun into a formidable long-range weapon.
Performance Analysis of 12-Gauge Ammo in Tarkov
Introduction
The 12-gauge shotgun is a versatile weapon in Tarkov, capable of delivering devastating damage at close range. The choice of ammunition can significantly affect the weapon’s effectiveness. This analysis provides insights into the performance characteristics of various 12-gauge ammo types available in Tarkov.
Damage Output
Damage output is one of the most critical factors to consider when choosing 12-gauge ammo. The table below compares the damage values of different ammo types at various ranges:
| Ammo Type | Damage at 10m | Damage at 25m | Damage at 50m |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flechette | 140 | 120 | 100 |
| AP-20 | 120 | 100 | 80 |
| Buckshot | 60 | 40 | 20 |
As you can see, Flechette ammo delivers the highest damage across all ranges, making it the most potent ammo type for 12-gauge shotguns.
Damage Types and Effectiveness against Armor
Armor Stats
Different types of armor in Tarkov offer different levels of protection against various damage types. The effectiveness of ammo against armor is measured by armor damage penetration (AP) and flesh damage penetration (Flesh) values. AP represents the ammo’s ability to penetrate armor, while Flesh represents its effectiveness against unarmored targets.
Armor Classes
Armor in Tarkov is divided into six classes, ranging from Class 1 (lightest and least protective) to Class 6 (heaviest and most protective). Each higher class provides progressively better protection against all damage types.
Damage Effectiveness Against Armor
The table below provides a general overview of the effectiveness of different damage types against various armor classes:
| Damage Type | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | Class 4 | Class 5 | Class 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9mm | Moderate | Low | Very Low | Very Low | Negligible | Negligible |
| .45 ACP | High | Moderate | Low | Very Low | Very Low | Negligible |
| 5.45x39mm | High | Moderate | Low | Very Low | Very Low | Negligible |
| 5.56x45mm NATO | High | Moderate | Low | Low | Very Low | Negligible |
| 7.62x51mm NATO | Very High | High | Moderate | Moderate | Low | Very Low |
| .300 Winchester Magnum | Very High | Very High | High | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| 12-gauge Flechette | Very High | Very High | Very High | High | Moderate | Low |
Versatility and Cost-Effectiveness Considerations
Versatility
In Escape from Tarkov, versatility is a critical factor when choosing your 12g ammo. Different types of ammo serve different purposes, and having a well-rounded selection can give you an advantage in various combat situations.
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Buckshot is the most versatile type of 12g ammo, effective at close to medium range. It spreads out upon firing, making it ideal for hitting multiple targets or hitting targets at close range.
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Slugs are solid projectiles that fly like bullets. They have high penetration and accuracy, making them excellent for engaging enemies at medium to long range.
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Magnum buckshot is similar to buckshot but carries a heavier payload. It offers increased penetration and damage at the cost of recoil.
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Flechette rounds are needle-like projectiles designed to pierce armor. They excel against targets wearing body armor but have limited range and accuracy.
Cost-Effectiveness
In addition to versatility, cost-effectiveness is another important consideration. Different types of 12g ammo vary significantly in price, and it’s essential to find a balance between performance and affordability.
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Buckshot is generally the most cost-effective type of 12g ammo. It is relatively cheap and can be purchased in bulk.
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Slugs are more expensive than buckshot but offer improved performance at longer ranges.
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Magnum buckshot and flechette rounds are the most expensive types of 12g ammo. They provide specialized performance but come at a premium price.
Availability and Reliability in Tarkov’s Market
The availability of 12g ammo in Tarkov’s market can fluctuate depending on factors such as player demand, trader stock, and in-game events. Certain types of 12g ammo may be more readily available than others, and prices can vary based on supply and demand.
In terms of reliability, 12g ammo generally performs well in Tarkov. Its damage output is suitable for close-range encounters, and it can penetrate various types of armor. However, the spread of 12g ammo can be wide at longer ranges, making it less effective for sniping or precision shooting.
Key Characteristics of 12g Ammo
Here are some key characteristics to consider when evaluating 12g ammo in Tarkov:
- Damage: The amount of damage inflicted on targets.
- Penetration: The ability to pierce armor and barriers.
- Spread: The dispersion of pellets upon firing.
- Recoil: The upward force exerted on the firearm when fired.
- Accuracy: The ability to consistently hit targets at specific distances.
- Availability: The ease of acquiring ammo from traders or the market.
The table below compares the key characteristics of different types of 12g ammo in Tarkov:
| Ammo Type | Damage | Penetration | Spread | Recoil | Accuracy | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckshot | High | Low | High | Moderate | Low | Good |
| Slug | Very high | Very high | Very low | High | Very high | Limited |
| Flechette | Moderate | Moderate | Very low | Very high | High | Limited |
Tailoring Ammo Choice to Specific Engagements
Choosing the right ammo for specific engagements is vital for maximizing your effectiveness in Tarkov. Different ammo types excel in different situations, so it’s essential to have a tailored loadout that meets your needs.
Types of Ammo
There are various ammo types available in Tarkov, each with unique characteristics and purposes:
- FMJ (Full Metal Jacket): Standard ball ammo, good for general-purpose use.
- Hollow Point: Expands on impact, causing higher damage to unarmored targets.
- Armor Piercing: Penetrates armor effectively, ideal for engaging armored opponents.
- Tracer: Leaves a visible trail, making it easier to track targets and adjust your aim.
- Flechette: High-velocity rounds that pierce through armor and inflict severe damage.
- Incendiary: Ignite targets on impact, useful against wooden structures or Scavs.
- Buckshot and Slugs: Utilize shotguns, each with its own spread and penetration characteristics.
Choosing the Right Ammo
Consider the following factors when choosing ammo:
- Target Type: Unarmored, armored, or Scavs have different vulnerability profiles.
- Weapon Platform: Different weapons have different ammo capacities and barrel lengths.
- Engagement Range: Bullet drop and velocity affect accuracy at various distances.
- Ammo Availability: Consider the scarcity of certain ammo types in Tarkov.
- Budget: Ammo prices vary, so choose wisely based on your financial situation.
Ammo Effects on Armor Penetration
The effectiveness of armor penetration depends on the ammo type and armor level:
| Ammo Type | Armor Level | Penetration |
|---|---|---|
| FMJ | 1 | High |
| FMJ | 2 | Medium |
| FMJ | 3 | Low |
| AP | 1 | Very High |
| AP | 2 | High |
| AP | 3 | Medium |
Optimizing Ammo for Close-Quarters Combat
AP Ammunition
Armor-piercing (AP) ammunition is designed to penetrate body armor, making it an effective choice for engaging heavily armored targets in close-quarters combat. It has high penetration power and damage, but may not be as effective against unarmored targets.
Flechette Rounds
Flechette rounds are high-velocity rounds that fragment upon impact, dealing significant damage to unarmored or lightly armored targets. They have a large spread and low penetration power, making them suitable for short-range engagements.
Buckshot Shells
Buckshot shells contain multiple pellets that spread upon firing, delivering a devastating blast at close range. They are highly effective against unarmored or lightly armored enemies, but their spread makes them ineffective at longer distances.
Subsonic Ammunition
Subsonic ammunition is designed to travel below the speed of sound, producing less muzzle flash and noise. This makes it ideal for stealth operations or when suppressing enemy gunfire. However, it has lower velocity and penetration power compared to standard ammunition.
Hollow-Point Ammunition
Hollow-point ammunition expands upon impact, creating a larger wound cavity and maximizing damage. It is highly effective against unarmored targets, but its expansion can reduce penetration power against armored targets.
Shrapnel Rounds
Shrapnel rounds contain a fragmentation projectile that explodes upon impact, showering the target with metal fragments. This deals significant damage to both armored and unarmored targets, but the spread and blast radius can make it difficult to control at close range.
Tracer Rounds
Tracer rounds are designed to emit a visible trail of light when fired, making it easier to track shots and adjust fire. They are useful for target acquisition and suppression, but they can also reveal your position to enemies.
Magnum Buckshot
Magnum buckshot is a type of buckshot shell that contains larger pellets and produces a more powerful spread. It has increased penetration power and damage compared to standard buckshot, making it effective against both armored and unarmored targets at close range. However, its spread makes it less accurate at longer distances.
| Ammunition Type | Effective Range | Penetration Power | Damage | Spread | Stealth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AP | Short | High | High | Low | No |
| Flechette Rounds | Short | Low | High | High | No |
| Buckshot | Very Short | Low | Very High | High | No |
| Subsonic | Medium | Medium | Medium | Low | Yes |
| Hollow-Point | Short | Low | Very High | Low | No |
| Shrapnel Rounds | Short | Medium | High | Medium | No |
| Tracer | Medium | Medium | Medium | Low | No |
| Magnum Buckshot | Short | Medium | Very High | High | No |
Maximizing Stopping Power for Headshots and Limb Shots
In Tarkov, using the right ammo for your weapon is crucial for maximizing your chances of success. Whether you’re aiming for headshots or limb shots, the correct ammo can make all the difference.
Headshots
Headshots are the most effective way to eliminate enemies quickly. When aiming for the head, choose ammo with high penetration and damage, such as:
- M995 (5.56x45mm NATO)
- M855A1 (5.56x45mm NATO)
- 7N37 (7.62x54mmR)
Limb Shots
Limb shots can incapacitate or cripple enemies, reducing their mobility and effectiveness. For limb shots, opt for ammo with lower penetration but higher fragmentation and flesh damage, such as:
- M855A1 (5.56x45mm NATO)
- 5.45x39mm PS
- 7.62x39mm BP
Specific Ammo Recommendations
Here’s a table summarizing our ammo recommendations for different purposes:
| Purpose | Recommended Ammo |
|---|---|
| Headshots | M995, M855A1, 7N37 |
| Limb Shots | M855A1, 5.45x39mm PS, 7.62x39mm BP |
Additional Tips
In addition to choosing the right ammo, consider the following tips to maximize your stopping power:
- Aim for center mass when shooting at limbs to increase the chances of hitting multiple body parts.
- Use armor-piercing ammo when facing enemies with heavy armor.
- Carry a variety of ammo types to adapt to different engagement scenarios.
Balancing Penetration and Damage for Medium-Range Encounters
When it comes to medium-range encounters in Tarkov, choosing the right 12g ammo can make all the difference. You want something that can penetrate your opponent’s armor while still doing enough damage to take them down. Here are some of the best options:
AP-20
AP-20 rounds are a great choice for penetrating armor. They have a penetration value of 38, which is enough to penetrate most level 4 armor. They also do 48 damage, which is enough to take down a player with a single headshot.
AP-20 Slug
AP-20 Slug rounds are a similar option to AP-20 rounds, but they do more damage. They have a penetration value of 45 and do 58 damage. However, they are also more expensive.
Flechette
Flechette rounds are a good choice if you want to do a lot of damage. They have a penetration value of 24, but they do 68 damage. This makes them particularly effective against unarmored opponents.
Magnum Buckshot
Magnum Buckshot rounds are a good all-around option. They have a penetration value of 29 and do 50 damage. They are also relatively inexpensive.
#10. Shrapnel-10
The Shrapnel-10 round is an excellent choice for close-range engagements due to its high damage output and penetration capabilities. It features a steel core and fragmentation jacket that can penetrate Level 3 armor and inflict significant damage to unarmored targets. The Shrapnel-10 delivers a devastating impact with 77 damage, making it one of the most potent 12g rounds available in Tarkov.
Here is a table summarizing the key stats of these rounds:
| Round | Penetration | Damage | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| AP-20 | 38 | 48 | $1,200 |
| AP-20 Slug | 45 | 58 | $1,500 |
| Flechette | 24 | 68 | $1,000 |
| Magnum Buckshot | 29 | 50 | $800 |
| Shrapnel-10 | 38 | 77 | $1,400 |
Best 12g Ammo Tarkov
The 12-gauge shotgun is a versatile weapon in Escape from Tarkov, capable of taking down both unarmored and armored targets. However, choosing the right ammo for the job can make all the difference. In this guide, we will discuss the best 12-gauge ammo types in Tarkov and their uses.
The most important factor to consider when choosing 12-gauge ammo is the type of target you are engaging. For unarmored targets, such as scavs or lightly armored PMCs, buckshot is the best choice. Buckshot pellets spread out as they travel, increasing the chance of hitting your target. The Magnum Buckshot and Superformance Buckshot are both excellent choices for taking down unarmored targets.
For armored targets, such as heavily armored PMCs or bosses, AP-20 slugs are the best choice. AP-20 slugs are designed to penetrate armor, making them ideal for taking down even the toughest opponents. Flechette rounds are also a good choice for penetrating armor, but they have a lower damage output than AP-20 slugs.
People Also Ask About Best 12g Ammo Tarkov
What is the best buckshot ammo for Tarkov?
The Magnum Buckshot and Superformance Buckshot are both excellent choices for taking down unarmored targets in Tarkov.
What is the best AP ammo for Tarkov?
The AP-20 slugs are the best AP ammo for Tarkov, as they are designed to penetrate armor and deal high damage to armored targets.
What is the best Flechette ammo for Tarkov?
The Flechette rounds are a good choice for penetrating armor in Tarkov, but they have a lower damage output than AP-20 slugs.
