The Best Ammo Types in Escape From Tarkov

Escape from Tarkov has the most realistic ballistics in the tactical shooter genre, so choosing the right ammunition for each situation is crucial. But how do you tell the best type of ammunition in Escape from Tarkov? We’re here to help!

How to choose the best ammunition type in Escape from Tarkov

While any type of ammo will result in a quick death in Tarkov if you headshot your opponent, some ammo is better and more effective than others. Let’s say you’re wearing a helmet; then what? A standard 9mm bullet won’t penetrate many helmets in the game. But what about the M80? That bullet will absolutely punch through a helmet, making you the clear winner in a firefight.

When choosing the best ammunition, you must consider:

  • damage
  • Penetration
  • Cringe
  • effective distance
  • speed

These factors play a vital role in choosing the type of ammunition to load into each magazine!

Best ammunition type in Escape from Tarkov

While these are indeed the best ammo types in the game, they are also among the rarest. You’ll have to loot a lot, level up your traders, and complete quests to unlock the ability to buy or craft most of these ammo types. It’s hard work, but worth it!

M80 7.62×51

The M80 remains one of the most popular ammo types in Escape from Tarkov. It is a powerful bullet that can be used in the SA-58, M700, DVL-10, G29, RSASS, RFB, and countless other carbines, rifles, and marksman rifles in the game. It is capable of stopping most PMCs, many of the bosses in the game, and Scavs with almost no problems.

  • Damage: 80
  • Penetration: 41
  • Armor Damage: 66
  • Speed: 833 m/s
  • Source: Peacekeeper LL3

SP-6 9×39

The VSS Vintorez and AS VAL, while popular in many circles, still feel like they don’t get the publicity they deserve. They are quiet, fast-firing, powerful weapons that excel in both close and medium-range engagements. If you’re steady with your shot, you can even hit targets at long range.

  • Damage: 58
  • Penetration: 54
  • Armor Damage: 69
  • Speed: 295 m/s
  • Source: Loot

Polystyrene 7.62×54

As one of the most powerful rounds for bolt-action rifles, sniper rifles, assault carbines, and some of the game’s light machine guns, the PS 7.62x54mmR is more than enough to knock down any opponent with a well-placed shot to the head. Even with armor on, it can do enough damage to stop a PMC in their tracks, giving them enough time to wait for a follow-up shot.

  • Damage: 72
  • Penetration: 70
  • Armor Damage: 88
  • Speed: 785 m/s
  • Source: Loot

Full Metal Ballistic Missile SX 4.6x30mm

I’m a big fan of the compact, fast-firing MP7 in Escape from Tarkov. It’s the ideal close-combat weapon for many of the game’s maps, and with a 40-round magazine loaded with FMK SX 4.6x30mm ammunition, it can absolutely take down any opponent.

  • Damage: 65
  • Penetration: 15
  • Armor Damage: 28
  • Speed: 690 m/s
  • Source: Mechanic LL1

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