The Ultimate 9mm Showdown: Which Pistol Reigns Supreme in Resident Evil 4?

If you’re knee-deep in Ganados, dodging chainsaws, and battling grotesque mutations in Resident Evil 4, you’re going to need a reliable sidearm. And when it comes to 9mm pistols, the choices can be overwhelming. So, let’s cut to the chase: The “best” 9mm pistol in Resident Evil 4 (both the original and the remake) is a complex question that depends entirely on your play style and priorities. For raw power and stopping power, the Red9 is a strong contender. If you’re looking for speed and accuracy, the Blacktail or SG-09 R (with laser sight) might be a better fit. Ultimately, the “best” 9mm for you is the one that complements your strengths and compensates for your weaknesses in the high-stakes world of RE4.

Diving Deep into the 9mm Arsenal

The 9mm pistols in Resident Evil 4 offer a diverse range of attributes, each tailored to different combat situations. To make an informed decision, let’s examine the key contenders:

• Red9: The Red9, a modified Mauser C96, is renowned for its high firepower. It packs a serious punch, capable of downing enemies with fewer shots. Its high capacity magazine, especially when upgraded, allows for sustained fire. However, it suffers from slower reload speeds and lower accuracy compared to other options, especially without the stock attachment.

• Blacktail: This pistol prioritizes fire rate and handling. It allows for faster follow-up shots and more precise aiming, making it ideal for players who value speed and maneuverability. The Blacktail boasts a smaller inventory footprint than the Red9, freeing up valuable space. While its damage per shot is lower, its higher fire rate can compensate in certain situations.

• SG-09 R: Leon’s starting pistol, the SG-09 R, is a versatile option. When equipped with the laser sight, it becomes incredibly accurate, making it a headshot machine. It is a reliable workhorse that rewards skilled aiming and precise targeting. While its base stats might seem underwhelming, its customizability and accuracy make it a potent weapon.

• Punisher: The Punisher offers a unique advantage: penetrating power. It can shoot through multiple enemies, making it effective against tightly packed groups. This is especially useful against enemies with shields. While its damage per shot is lower than the Red9, its penetrating ability can deliver significant damage to multiple targets simultaneously.

• Sentinel Nine: This handgun is the most modern-looking weapon, and its stats are decent. It has some problems aiming. The laser sight is what makes it easier to handle.

Factoring in Your Playstyle

The optimal 9mm pistol selection isn’t just about raw stats; it’s about how the weapon fits your personal playstyle:

• Aggressive Players: If you prefer a more aggressive approach, charging into the fray and unleashing a hail of bullets, the Blacktail‘s high fire rate and handling could be your best bet.

• Tactical Players: If you favor a more calculated approach, focusing on headshots and conserving ammo, the SG-09 R with laser sight could be your weapon of choice.

• Crowd Control Specialists: If you often find yourself surrounded by hordes of enemies, the Punisher‘s penetrating power can provide invaluable crowd control.

• Power-Oriented Players: If you prioritize raw stopping power above all else, the Red9, especially when fully upgraded, will serve you well.

The Role of Upgrades

Upgrading your chosen pistol is crucial for maximizing its potential. Consider the following upgrade paths:

• Red9: Focus on increasing its firepower and capacity. The stock is a must-have for improving its accuracy.
• Blacktail: Prioritize fire rate and reload speed to further enhance its responsiveness.
• SG-09 R: Invest in the laser sight to unlock its full potential. Upgrade its firepower and capacity as needed.
• Punisher: Concentrate on increasing its penetrating power and firepower.
• Sentinel Nine: The laser sight is what makes it easier to handle.

FAQs: Mastering the 9mm in Resident Evil 4

Here are some frequently asked questions about the best 9mm pistols in Resident Evil 4 to further refine your weapon selection:

1. Is the Red9 truly the most powerful handgun?

The Red9 boasts the highest raw damage output of the 9mm pistols. However, other factors like fire rate and accuracy can make other options more effective in certain situations.

2. How important is the Red9 stock?

The Red9 stock significantly improves the pistol’s accuracy, making it a worthwhile investment.

3. Is the Blacktail worth sacrificing power for?

Yes, the Blacktail’s higher fire rate and handling can compensate for its lower damage per shot, especially against agile enemies.

4. When should I use the Punisher?

The Punisher excels in situations where you’re facing multiple enemies in a line, such as hallways or corridors.

5. Is the SG-09 R viable throughout the entire game?

Yes, with the laser sight and strategic upgrades, the SG-09 R can remain a viable option throughout the entire game, especially for skilled players who excel at headshots.

6. Does ammo type affect handgun performance?

No, unlike some other weapons, the handguns in Resident Evil 4 generally use a standard 9mm ammunition type.

7. How does inventory space factor into my decision?

The Blacktail is more compact than the Red9, freeing up valuable inventory space for other essential items.

8. Should I sell my starting handgun once I get a better one?

It is wise to hold on to all the guns, due to the ammo dropping randomly and also due to different combat situations.

9. Which pistol is best for boss fights?

This depends on the boss. The Red9’s high damage can be effective against bosses with large health pools, while the Blacktail’s speed can be useful against bosses with fast movements.

10. How does the remake change the handgun dynamic?

The remake features refined aiming mechanics and weapon customization options, which can further enhance the performance of each handgun.

11. What is a good early-game handgun strategy?

In the early game, the SG-09 R (especially with the eventual laser sight) is a solid choice due to its reliability and accuracy.

12. How does professional difficulty affect handgun choices?

On Professional difficulty, ammo conservation becomes even more crucial. The SG-09 R’s accuracy and the Punisher’s penetrating power can be especially valuable.

13. Can the Matilda compete with other handguns?

The Matilda is not generally considered as good as the other ones because it burns through ammo in no time.

14. Is the Red9 a real gun?

Yes, it’s based on the Mauser C96 pistol.

15. How does “Separate Ways” change the equation for best handgun?

Considering its upgrade price and maximum power, the best weapon in the RE4 Remake DLC is the Blacktail.

The Verdict: It’s All About You

Ultimately, there is no single “best” 9mm pistol in Resident Evil 4. The ideal choice depends on your individual playstyle, preferences, and the specific challenges you face. Experiment with different options, upgrade them strategically, and find the weapon that feels most comfortable and effective in your hands. Remember, a skilled marksman with a trusty pistol is a force to be reckoned with in the survival horror world of Resident Evil 4.

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