Launcher Ammo is a specialized ammunition type in ARC Raiders, designed primarily for weapons that deal explosive damage against ARC enemies. Unlike ordinary bullets, it delivers an explosive payload that is particularly effective against armored mechanical targets. Players collecting ARC Raiders Items should understand how this ammunition works before taking it into a raid, especially when preparing for encounters with heavier ARC units.
Which Weapons Use Launcher Ammo?
Launcher Ammo is compatible with two weapons: the Hullcracker and the Rascal. Both use explosive projectiles, but they serve different combat purposes.
The Hullcracker is a powerful option for dealing with large ARC enemies. Its explosive shots are useful when you need to pressure heavily armored targets and contribute meaningful damage during difficult encounters.
The Rascal also uses Launcher Ammo, offering another way to deal explosive damage. Its break-action firing system makes each shot important, so players should pay attention to timing and positioning rather than firing without a clear target.
Keep in mind that Launcher Ammo is not interchangeable with Heavy Ammo or other standard ammunition types. Carry the correct ammunition before deploying, and check your weapon’s ammo requirement when preparing your loadout.
How to Use Launcher Ammo in Combat
The biggest advantage of Launcher Ammo is its effectiveness against ARC armor. It is particularly useful when fighting larger mechanical enemies, where ordinary weapons may require sustained fire to deal with their defenses.
Here are several situations where it can be useful:
- Against heavily armored ARC: Use explosive shots to pressure targets such as Bastions and other dangerous mechanical enemies. Aim carefully and avoid wasting ammunition on unnecessary shots.
- During team encounters: Coordinate with teammates before engaging a large ARC. One player using a Hullcracker can contribute explosive damage while others focus on supporting fire and controlling nearby threats.
- When attacking from cover: Maintain enough distance to react to incoming attacks. Exposing yourself for too long just to land another shot can quickly put your Raider in danger.
- During major ARC encounters: Save ammunition for targets that justify its cost. Firing every available round at smaller enemies can leave you without enough firepower for a more important fight.
Launcher Ammo is most valuable when used with a clear target and purpose. It should not replace your regular weapon ammunition for every encounter.
How to Get More Launcher Ammo
There are several ways to maintain your supply.
Crafting: You can craft six Launcher Ammo at a Level 1 Workbench using one ARC Motion Core and two Crude Explosives. No special blueprint is required under the current crafting system.
Trader purchases: Tian Wen sells six rounds for 4,500 Coins once the required trader level is unlocked. This provides a convenient option when you have enough currency but lack crafting materials.
Looting ARC enemies: Bombardiers, Rocketeers, Rocketeer Husks, and ARC Turbines are worth checking when searching for Launcher Ammo. Some of these enemies can also provide materials useful for maintaining your ammunition supply.
If you regularly use the Hullcracker, crafting is worth preparing for before a major raid. Keep an eye on your ARC Motion Core and Crude Explosives reserves instead of waiting until your ammunition is almost empty.
Important Tips Before Taking It Into a Raid
Launcher Ammo has a stack limit of 24 and weighs 0.1 kg per round. Although the individual weight is low, carrying several stacks can still take up valuable inventory space.
Do not bring more ammunition than your planned encounter requires. Consider the map, your weapon choice, and whether you expect to fight large ARC enemies. If your main objective involves exploration or collecting ordinary loot, carrying a full supply of specialized ammunition may not be worthwhile.
Also, avoid treating every ARC encounter as a reason to use explosive rounds. Some smaller enemies can be handled more efficiently with regular weapons, allowing you to preserve Launcher Ammo for tougher targets.
Players looking to make other progression goals more manageable can also explore ARC Raiders Boosting options. However, building a reliable ammunition supply and choosing the right weapon for each encounter remain important parts of preparing for difficult raids.
Launcher Ammo is not designed for every fight. Its strength comes from using explosive damage against the right ARC targets, managing your limited supply, and knowing when a shot is worth spending. With the Hullcracker or Rascal equipped, careful ammunition management can make challenging mechanical encounters much easier to handle.