Death Stranding 2: All 50+ Weapons and How to Get Them in July 2025
Looking to unlock every weapon in Death Stranding 2? I've spent countless hours exploring Mexico and Australia to bring you the most comprehensive weapons guide available. Whether you're a returning porter or new to the strand game, this guide will help you build the ultimate arsenal for surviving in Kojima Productions' expanded combat system.
Table of Contents
Understanding Death Stranding 2's Weapon System
Death Stranding 2 has massively expanded its combat mechanics compared to the original game. With over 50 unique weapons spanning multiple categories, the sequel offers more ways to defend yourself against BTs, bandits, and mechs than ever before. The good news? I'll show you exactly how to unlock each one.
The weapon system in Death Stranding 2 revolves around Connection Levels with various facilities. By completing Standard Orders, Aid Requests, and recovering Lost Cargo, you'll increase your standing with different settlements and unlock their unique weapon blueprints. Once unlocked, you can craft these weapons at any facility's Terminal using the Fabrication screen.
Death Stranding 2: All 50+ Weapons List
Handguns
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Maser Handgun | Start of game | Silent, electric charge, holster storage |
| Machine Pistol | Ciudad Nudo del Norte (C1) - Level 2 | Semi/Full-auto modes |
| SL Machine Pistol [MP] | Ciudad Nudo del Norte (C1) - Level 3 | Silent variant with flashlight |
| Grenade Pistol | Western Environmental Observatory - Connect | Fires explosive MP grenades |
| SL Tranq Handgun | The Lone Commander - Level 3 | Silent, tranquilizer rounds |
| Big-Bore Handgun [MP] | Ciudad Nudo del Norte (C1) - Level 4 | Armor penetration, high damage |
Assault Rifles & Machine Guns
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Assault Rifle [MP] Lv1 | Start of game | Standard rifle, flashlight |
| Assault Rifle [MP] Lv2 | C1 South Distribution Centre - Level 4 | Grenade launcher, dot sight |
| LW Assault Rifle [MP] Lv1 | Former Geophysics Research Lab - Level 3 | S-size storage, lightweight |
| LW Assault Rifle [MP] Lv2 | Former Geophysics Research Lab - Level 4 | S-size, grenade launcher |
| SL-LW Assault Rifle [MP] Lv1 | The Data Scientist - Connect | Silent, S-size storage |
| Machine Gun [MP] Lv1 | The Pizza Chef - Connect | High capacity, long range |
| Machine Gun [MP] Lv2 | The Pizza Chef - Level 3 | Improved fire rate and capacity |
| Sticky Gun | The Bokka - Level 2 | Cargo retrieval cables |
| Bola Gun | The Government's Base - Connect | Binding strands, anti-BT |
| Bola Stun Gun | The Inventor - Level 4 | Electric strands, instant knockout |
Shotguns
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Shotgun [MP] Lv1 | The Musician - Connect | Short-range, flashlight |
| Shotgun [MP] Lv2 | The Musician - Level 3 | Grenade launcher, dot sight |
| LW Shotgun [MP] Lv1 | The Musician - Level 2 | S-size storage |
| LW Shotgun [MP] Lv2 | The Musician - Level 4 | S-size, grenade launcher |
Sniper Rifles
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tranq Sniper Rifle | The Lone Commander - Connect | Variable zoom, breath stabilization |
| LW Tranq Sniper Rifle | The Lone Commander - Level 4 | S-size storage, maintains range |
Launcher Weapons
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Grenade Launcher [MP] | F5 East Distribution Centre - Connect | Area damage grenades |
| RD Grenade Launcher [MP] | The Fisherman - Connect | Remote detonation adhesive shells |
| Multirocket Launcher | The Phantom Smith - Level 2 | Multi-target lock, guided rockets |
| Quadruple Rocket Launcher | F7 North Distribution Centre - Connect | Four rapid unguided rockets |
Grenades
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Grenade Lv1 | Order 4 completion | Anti-BT blood cloud |
| Blood Grenade Lv2 | C1 South Distribution Centre - Level 3 | Enhanced blood damage |
| EX Grenade | C1 South Distribution Centre - Level 2 | Repels all BT types |
| Smoke Grenade | The Lone Commander - Connect | Vision obscuring, quiet |
| MP Grenade | Western Environmental Observatory - Connect | Universal damage type |
| Decoy Hologrenade | Animal Shelter - Connect | Creates decoy holograms |
| Stealth Hologrenade | Animal Shelter - Level 2 | Creates hiding spot holograms |
| BT Hologrenade | Animal Shelter - Level 3 | BT hologram paralyzes humans |
| EX Capture Grenade | The Metagenomicist - Connect | Creates BT crystals from catchers |
| Stun Bomb | The Inventor - Level 2 | Electric area stun |
| Remote Stun Bomb | The Inventor - Level 3 | Adhesive, remote activation |
Melee Weapons
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Electric Rod | Villa Libre - Level 2 | Throwable, electric damage |
| Custom High-Voltage Rod | Villa Libre - Level 3 | Higher voltage attacks |
| Custom Twin Rod | Villa Libre - Level 4 | Dual-ended, faster combos |
| Combat Power Gloves Lv1 | F2 South Distribution Centre - Level 2 | Anti-mech strikes, climbing boost |
| Combat Power Gloves Lv2 | F2 South Distribution Centre - Level 3 | Better battery and durability |
Thrown Weapons
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Boomerang | Northern Environmental Observatory - Connect | Returns to user, uses Sam's blood |
| Electric Trap | The Architect - Level 2 | Connects to other traps |
| Dog Mine | Sub Order 106 - The Data Scientist | Autonomous chase and attack |
| Rubber Pizza | The Pizza Chef - Level 2 | Silent knockout disc |
| Rocket Box [MP] | The Ghost Hunter - Connect | Disguised multi-rocket launcher |
Special & Miscellaneous Weapons
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Tar Cannon | Rainbow Valley - Connect | Fire suppression, restores catchers |
| Chiral Shock Cannon | The Phantom Smith - Connect | Wall penetration, uses crystals |
| Battle Guitar | Episode 14 start | Gun/axe hybrid, golden projectiles |
Vehicle-Mounted Weapons
| Weapon Name | Unlock Method | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Sticky Cannon | F2 South Distribution Centre - Connect | Auto-collects nearby cargo |
| Heavy Machine Gun | F2 South Distribution Centre - Connect | Auto-targets enemies |
| Chiral Cannon | South Fort Knot - Connect | High damage particle weapon |
| Mortar | The Mechanic - Level 3 | Long-range MP shell artillery |
Complete Weapon Categories Overview
Before diving into specific weapons, let me break down the main categories you'll encounter:
- Handguns: Compact weapons perfect for Sam's holster, ideal for stealth and close encounters
- Assault Rifles: Versatile mid-range weapons with various firing modes
- Shotguns: Devastating close-range options with MP shell technology
- Sniper Rifles: Long-range precision weapons for tactical gameplay
- Launcher Weapons: Heavy ordinance for taking down large threats
- Grenades: Throwable explosives with unique effects
- Melee Weapons: Electric rods and combat gloves for silent takedowns
- Thrown Weapons: Boomerangs, traps, and other projectiles
- Miscellaneous Weapons: Unique tools like the Tar Cannon and Battle Guitar
- Vehicle Weapons: Mounted weapons for your pickup off-roader
All Handguns and How to Unlock Them?
Maser Handgun
The Maser Handgun is your trusty starting companion that electrocutes close-range targets. Hold the trigger to build electrical charge before firing. This silent weapon is perfect for covert operations and can be stored in your handgun holster.
How to Get: Automatically unlocked at the start of the game
Machine Pistol
A standard automatic handgun that fires MP bullets effective against any target. Features both semi-auto and full-auto firing modes.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 2 with Ciudad Nudo del Norte (C1) in Mexico
SL Machine Pistol [MP]
The silent variant of the machine pistol, perfect for stealth missions. Fires MP bullets and comes with a flashlight attachment.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 3 with Ciudad Nudo del Norte (C1) in Mexico
Grenade Pistol
This unique handgun fires MP shell grenades that explode on impact, damaging all enemies caught in the blast radius.
How to Get: Connect the Western Environmental Observatory to the chiral network in Australia
SL Tranq Handgun
A silenced handgun with tranquilizing rounds. Limited range but puts enemies to sleep with a single direct hit once the tranquilizer takes effect.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 3 with The Lone Commander in Australia
Big-Bore Handgun [MP]
The most powerful handgun in the game, brutally effective at close range. Rounds penetrate helmets and destroy armor, especially at close proximity.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 4 with Ciudad Nudo del Norte (C1) in Mexico
Assault Rifles Arsenal
Assault Rifle [MP] Lv1
Your basic MP bullet assault rifle with standard damage output and firing modes.
How to Get: Automatically unlocked at the start of the game
Assault Rifle [MP] Lv2
An upgraded version featuring greater ammo capacity, larger clip size, and higher rate of fire. Includes a dot sight and MP shell grenade launcher.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 4 with C1 South Distribution Centre in Mexico
LW Assault Rifle [MP] Lv1 & Lv2
The lightweight variants can be stored as S-sized cargo, making them perfect for porters who value mobility. The Lv2 version adds an MP shell grenade launcher.
How to Get:
- Lv1: Connection Level 3 at Former Geophysics Research Lab in Mexico
- Lv2: Connection Level 4 at Former Geophysics Research Lab in Mexico
SL-LW Assault Rifle [MP] Lv1
A silent lightweight assault rifle with suppressor, ideal for covert operations while maintaining portability.
How to Get: Connect The Data Scientist to the chiral network in Australia
Machine Gun [MP] Lv1 & Lv2
Powerful mid-range weapons with considerable ammo capacity. Slow to reload but rounds retain power over distance.
How to Get:
- Lv1: Connect The Pizza Chef to the chiral network in Australia
- Lv2: Reach Connection Level 3 with The Pizza Chef in Australia
Specialized Weapons
Sticky Gun
An essential tool that fires cables to reel in cargo from a distance. Requires well-timed catches to secure pulled items.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 2 with The Bokka in Mexico
Bola Gun & Bola Stun Gun
These weapons fire strands to bind and immobilize targets. The Stun variant adds electrical damage for instant knockouts.
How to Get:
- Bola Gun: Connect The Government's Base to the chiral network in Australia
- Bola Stun Gun: Reach Connection Level 4 with The Inventor in Australia
Shotgun Selection
The shotgun category offers both standard and lightweight variants, all utilizing MP shell technology that adapts damage type based on your target.
Shotgun [MP] Lv1 & Lv2
Short-range devastation with flashlight attachments. Lv2 adds a dot sight and grenade launcher.
How to Get:
- Lv1: Connect The Musician to the chiral network in Australia
- Lv2: Reach Connection Level 3 with The Musician in Australia
LW Shotgun [MP] Lv1 & Lv2
Lightweight versions that can be stored as S-sized cargo without sacrificing stopping power.
How to Get:
- Lv1: Reach Connection Level 2 with The Musician in Australia
- Lv2: Reach Connection Level 4 with The Musician in Australia
Long-Range Precision: Sniper Rifles
Tranq Sniper Rifle
Long-range non-lethal option with variable zoom scope. Hold breath to stabilize aim. Makes loud noise when firing.
How to Get: Connect The Lone Commander to the chiral network in Australia
LW Tranq Sniper Rifle
Lightweight variant maintaining all features of the base model while being storable as S-sized cargo.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 4 with The Lone Commander in Australia
Heavy Artillery: Launcher Weapons
Grenade Launcher [MP]
Fires MP shell grenades that explode on impact with area damage.
How to Get: Connect F5 East Distribution Centre to the chiral network in Australia
RD Grenade Launcher [MP]
Features adhesive MP shells that stick to targets and can be remotely detonated.
How to Get: Connect The Fisherman to the chiral network in Australia
Multirocket Launcher
Fires multiple guided rockets that can lock onto several targets before launching. Explosions release anti-BT blood clouds.
How to Get: Reach Connection Level 2 with The Phantom Smith in Australia
Quadruple Rocket Launcher
Fires four powerful unguided rockets in quick succession with anti-BT blood cloud effects.
How to Get: Connect F7 North Distribution Centre to the chiral network in Australia
Grenade Variety
Death Stranding 2 features an extensive grenade arsenal, each with unique tactical applications:
Blood Grenades (Lv1 & Lv2)
- Lv1: Automatically unlocked after Order 4
- Lv2: Connection Level 3 with C1 South Distribution Centre
EX Grenade
Unleashes anti-BT vapor that repels gazers and hunters, even stopping catchers momentarily.
How to Get: Connection Level 2 with C1 South Distribution Centre in Mexico
Specialty Grenades
- Smoke Grenade: Connect The Lone Commander (obscures vision, shields from Watchers)
- MP Grenade: Connect Western Environmental Observatory (effective against all targets)
- Decoy Hologrenade: Connect Animal Shelter (creates decoy holograms)
- Stealth Hologrenade: Connection Level 2 with Animal Shelter (creates hiding spots)
- BT Hologrenade: Connection Level 3 with Animal Shelter (paralyzes humans with fear)
- EX Capture Grenade: Connect The Metagenomicist (produces BT crystals from weakened catchers)
Stun Bombs
- Stun Bomb: Connection Level 2 with The Inventor
- Remote Stun Bomb: Connection Level 3 with The Inventor
Melee Combat Options
Electric Rod Series
Villa Libre specializes in melee weapons, offering three tiers of electric rods:
- Custom Electric Rod: Connection Level 2 with Villa Libre
- Custom High-Voltage Rod: Connection Level 3 with Villa Libre
- Custom Twin Rod: Connection Level 4 with Villa Libre
Combat Power Gloves
Designed for close combat with powerful strikes effective against mechs. Features charged electrical attacks.
- Lv1: Connection Level 2 with F2 South Distribution Centre
- Lv2: Connection Level 3 with F2 South Distribution Centre
Unique Thrown Weapons
Blood Boomerang
A thrown weapon loaded with Sam's blood, especially effective against BTs. More blood means more damage, but depletes Sam's levels.
How to Get: Connect Northern Environmental Observatory to the chiral network
Electric Trap
Electrocutes enemies triggering its sensors. Multiple traps can connect for area denial.
How to Get: Connection Level 2 with The Architect
Dog Mine
Canine-shaped landmines that chase and attack targets with electrical or explosive damage.
How to Get: Complete Sub Order 106 for The Data Scientist
Rubber Pizza
A training disc from The Pizza Chef that knocks out heavily armored humans with headshots.
How to Get: Connection Level 2 with The Pizza Chef
Rocket Box [MP]
A cargo-shaped rocket launcher that locks onto multiple targets when thrown.
How to Get: Connect The Ghost Hunter to the chiral network
Special Weapons
Tar Cannon
Primarily for extinguishing fires but can knock humans unconscious. Must be deployed and fixed to ground. Warning: tar restores catchers!
How to Get: Connect Rainbow Valley to the chiral network
Chiral Shock Cannon
Fires chiral particles that penetrate walls, knock humans unconscious, and damage BTs/mechs. Consumes chiral crystals and requires fixed placement.
How to Get: Connect The Phantom Smith to the chiral network
Battle Guitar
A guitar-shaped gun firing golden projectiles that can also function as an axe.
How to Get: Automatically unlocked at Episode 14: Last Stranding
Vehicle-Mounted Weapons
Upgrade your pickup off-roader with these powerful attachments:
- Sticky Cannon: Automatically collects nearby cargo (Connect F2 South Distribution Centre)
- Heavy Machine Gun: Auto-fires MP bullets at enemies (Connect F2 South Distribution Centre)
- Chiral Cannon: Fires accelerated chiral particles (Connect South Fort Knot)
- Mortar: Long-range MP shell artillery (Connection Level 3 with The Mechanic)
Pro Tips for Weapon Mastery
- Prioritize Mexico Upgrades: Before leaving Mexico, I recommend pushing Villa Libre and Former Geophysics Research Lab to at least Level 3 for essential early-game weapons.
- Balance Your Loadout: Mix lethal and non-lethal options. Remember, Death Stranding 2 still penalizes killing humans unnecessarily.
- MP Technology is King: Weapons with [MP] designation adapt damage type to your target, making them incredibly versatile.
- Storage Matters: Lightweight (LW) weapons can be stored as S-sized cargo, leaving more room for deliveries.
- Silent Operations: SL (Silent) variants are perfect for avoiding unwanted attention in BT territory.
- Connection Grinding: Focus on facilities that offer weapon upgrades at multiple connection levels for maximum efficiency.
Essential Early Game Weapons
If you're just starting out, prioritize unlocking these weapons first:
- EX Grenade (C1 South Distribution Centre Level 2) - Superior to basic Blood Grenades
- LW Assault Rifle [MP] Lv2 (Former Geophysics Research Lab Level 4) - Lightweight with grenade launcher
- Sticky Gun (The Bokka Level 2) - Essential for cargo recovery
- Big-Bore Handgun [MP] (Ciudad Nudo del Norte Level 4) - Devastating close-range option
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best all-around weapon in Death Stranding 2?
The LW Assault Rifle [MP] Lv2 offers the best balance of power, versatility, and portability. Its lightweight design and attached grenade launcher make it perfect for most situations.
Can I unlock all weapons in a single playthrough?
Yes! All weapons can be unlocked by maximizing connection levels with every facility. This requires completing numerous deliveries and side missions.
Do weapons from the first game return?
While some classics like the Bola Gun make a return, Death Stranding 2 features mostly new weapons with enhanced mechanics and MP technology.
What's the fastest way to increase Connection Levels?
Focus on completing Standard Orders first, then hunt for Lost Cargo belonging to specific facilities. Aid Requests also provide substantial connection boosts.
Are there any missable weapons?
No weapons are permanently missable. You can always return to facilities to increase connection levels and unlock their weapons.
Which weapons work best against BTs?
Blood-based weapons remain most effective. The EX Grenade, Blood Boomerang, and any weapon firing Sam's blood excel against BT threats.
Final Thoughts
Death Stranding 2's expanded arsenal transforms the gameplay experience, offering solutions for every combat scenario you'll encounter. While the delivery mechanics remain core to the experience, having the right weapons makes traversing hostile territories much more manageable.
Remember, unlocking these weapons requires patience and dedication to building connections across the UCA. Take your time, complete those deliveries, and soon you'll have access to every tool needed to reconnect humanity.
Keep on keeping on, fellow porters!