ARC Raiders Best Beginner Loadout: Cheap Weapons, Shields, and Gear to Run First
Every new raider’s first few runs in ARC Raiders go the same way: you die, you lose your gear, and you are not sure what to buy next. The good news is you do not need expensive crafted gear to survive early. This guide covers a cheap, reliable starter loadout you can run on repeat while you learn the maps, plus the economic habits that keep you from going broke doing it. It is also a good refresher heading into the October 8 Frozen Trail update, since a cheap, dependable loadout matters even more once new enemies start showing up.
Primary Weapons: Kettle and Stitcher
For your primary weapon, the Kettle assault rifle (8.5 damage) is the best all-round starter: it is cheap to craft and feed, and forgiving at mid-range. Pair it with the Stitcher SMG (6.5 damage) for close-quarters work, a fast reload, and deadly up-close damage. Both share light ammo, so you only need to stock one ammo type between raids, which keeps your inventory simpler and your scavenging more efficient.
Shield and Survivability
For your shield, run the Light Shield: 40 charge, 40 percent damage mitigation, and critically, no movement penalty. While you are still learning sightlines and extraction routes, staying mobile matters more than stacking extra charge on a heavier shield that slows you down. Carry Bandages for quick, craftable healing mid-raid, and a Shield Recharger to top your shield back up between engagements rather than walking into the next fight running on empty.
Grenades and Utility
Round out the loadout with utility: Light or Impact grenades handle groups of enemies efficiently, while Seeker Grenades are worth carrying specifically because they home in on flying enemies that are otherwise a pain to hit with direct fire.
Where to Run It: Dam Battlegrounds, Then Stella Montis
Where you run this loadout matters as much as what is in it. Start on Dam Battlegrounds, which offers balanced loot for all skill levels and is the most forgiving place to practice fights and extracts. Once you are comfortable, move up to Stella Montis for higher-density loot runs.
Economic Tips for New Raiders
On the economic side, run Free Loadouts while you are learning. They are unlimited and carry no cooldown cost, so there is no reason to risk crafted gear before you are ready. Aim to save around 5,000 coins before you start investing in crafted equipment. And every raid, immediately deposit your single most valuable find into your Safe Pocket, the one item guaranteed to survive if you die. Above all, do not get attached to gear. You will lose equipment regularly while you learn, and that is normal, not a sign you are doing something wrong.
Once this starter kit feels too safe, our tactical shooter picks and action game deals are a good place to browse what to play next, and a Steam Wallet Code covers crafted gear costs or the in-game shop without needing a card on file. You can find ARC Raiders itself on Steam.
