Okay, here’s my blog post about my experience messing around with 12-gauge shotguns in Escape from Tarkov:
Alright, guys, so I’ve been diving deep into Tarkov lately, and specifically, I’ve been messing around with 12-gauge shotguns. I wanted to share my experience, what I’ve learned, the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Getting Started with 12-Gauge
First thing I did was hit up the flea market. Gotta see what’s available, right? I was looking at the usual suspects: MP-133, MP-153, Saiga-12, and even the M870. I initially leaned towards the MP-153 because, you know, semi-auto is nice for follow-up shots. I grabbed one that was pretty beat up, figuring I could mod it later.
Then came the ammo. Man, this is where it gets interesting. I started with just basic buckshot, the cheap stuff. I quickly realized, that ain’t gonna cut it against geared players. I mean, it’ll shred scavs, sure, but anyone with decent armor? Forget about it.
The Learning Curve (aka Getting Wrecked)
My first few raids were…rough. I went into Factory, thinking I could just blast my way through. Nope. Got dropped by a guy with an AK before I could even chamber a second round. Lesson learned: shotguns are NOT run-and-gun weapons, at least not with buckshot.
I switched up my tactics. Started playing slower, holding angles, listening for footsteps. It helped, a little. I managed to take down a few lightly geared players, but anyone with a helmet and a decent vest was still a problem.
The Breakthrough: Slugs and AP-20
Then I discovered slugs. Specifically, the AP-20 slugs. Oh boy. This changed everything. Suddenly, I wasn’t just tickling armored players, I was dropping them. I took down a fully kitted guy on Customs with a single well-placed shot to the chest. It was glorious.
I started experimenting with different builds. I put a longer barrel on the MP-153, added a choke for tighter spread (even with slugs, it helps), and slapped on a decent sight. I even messed around with the Saiga-12, adding a drum mag for maximum firepower.
The Downsides
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though. 12-gauge has its drawbacks. The recoil, even with mods, can be brutal. Follow-up shots are tough, especially with the pump-action shotguns. And if you miss that first shot? You’re probably dead. Also, reloading can be a real pain, especially under pressure. I found myself getting caught with an empty gun more times than I’d like to admit.
Current Loadout and Future Plans
Currently I really like using the MP-153.
- Longer Barrel
- Choke
- Decent sight
- AP-20 Slugs
I’m still experimenting, though. I want to try out some of the other slug types, and I’m definitely going to spend more time with the M870. It’s just so satisfying to rack that pump.
So, that’s my 12-gauge journey so far. It’s been a wild ride, filled with frustration, excitement, and a whole lot of learning. If you’re thinking about trying out shotguns in Tarkov, my advice is this: be patient, learn the ammo types, and practice your aim. And for the love of god, don’t run around like a maniac with buckshot.
