What is the Best AK to Run in Escape From Tarkov?
Determining the “best” AK in Escape From Tarkov isn’t a straightforward task, as it largely depends on your playstyle, budget, and the specific stage of the game you’re in. However, if we’re aiming for a balance of effectiveness, adaptability, and overall performance, the AK-74M and its variants consistently emerge as top contenders. While not the most powerful in terms of raw stopping power, the AK-74M offers a significant advantage in control and customization, making it a versatile and reliable option for most situations you’ll encounter in Tarkov.
Why the AK-74M Reigns Supreme
The AK-74M fires the 5.45x39mm round, a cartridge known for its high velocity, relatively low recoil, and manageable price. These characteristics translate to better accuracy and follow-up shot capability compared to the 7.62x39mm rifles like the AKM or AK-103. This is critical in fast-paced firefights, allowing you to stay on target and efficiently eliminate opponents.
Furthermore, the AK-74M boasts an extensive range of customization options. You can easily adapt it for close-quarters combat or long-range engagements by modifying its barrel length, handguard, stock, and muzzle devices. This level of adaptability makes it useful across all maps and situations within the game.
Understanding the AK-74M’s Advantages:
- Control: Lower recoil compared to 7.62x39mm AKs, leading to better accuracy, especially in full-auto mode.
- Ammo Availability: 5.45x39mm ammunition, particularly BS and Igloik rounds, are potent and readily available on the market.
- Modularity: Vast array of customization options to suit different playstyles.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally less expensive to maintain and mod compared to some of the higher-end AK variants.
Contenders for the Crown
While the AK-74M often takes the top spot, there are other AK variants that excel in specific niches:
- AK-105: Essentially a shorter version of the AK-74M, the AK-105 provides better maneuverability for close-quarters engagements. It trades some long-range effectiveness for its enhanced mobility.
- AK-101: Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the AK-101 offers a different ammo option that can be advantageous against certain armor types. Its performance is similar to the AK-74M, making it a good alternative if you prefer NATO rounds.
- AKM: The classic AKM firing 7.62x39mm packs a powerful punch. However, its higher recoil makes it less forgiving, especially for newer players. This AK can be devastating at short range but requires a more controlled approach.
- AK-103: Similar to the AKM but with a modern folding stock. It shares similar strengths and weaknesses with the AKM, delivering high damage per shot, but at a cost of increased recoil.
The Importance of Ammo Choice
Regardless of the AK you choose, ammunition selection is crucial. Understanding the penetration and damage characteristics of various rounds can significantly impact your effectiveness in combat. For 5.45x39mm, prioritize using BS, Igloik, or BT rounds. For 7.62x39mm, opt for BP or PS rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the AK-47 any good in Tarkov?
The AK-47 itself is not available in Escape From Tarkov. The closest alternative is the AKM, which fires the same 7.62x39mm round. While powerful, the AKM’s higher recoil can make it less accurate compared to 5.45x39mm options.
2. Is the AK-103 better than the AKM?
The AK-103 and AKM are very similar, both using the 7.62x39mm cartridge. The AK-103 is a more modern variant that features a side-folding stock, but in terms of performance, there’s little difference between them. The main advantage of the AK-103 is the ability to fold the stock, which can be useful in confined areas.
3. What’s the difference between the AK-74M and AK-101 in Tarkov?
The primary difference is the caliber. The AK-74M uses the 5.45x39mm cartridge, while the AK-101 uses 5.56x45mm NATO. Both weapons are similar in terms of performance, but they rely on different ammo types. The AK-101 is generally considered a good choice if you want to use NATO ammunition.
4. Is the AK-12 in Tarkov?
Yes, the AK-12 is available in Escape From Tarkov. It uses the 5.45x39mm cartridge and represents a modern design, boasting features that improve ergonomics and handling, offering a slight edge over the AK-74M if you have the resources to acquire and mod it effectively.
5. What is the best 7.62x39mm gun in Tarkov?
The AKM and AK-103 are both strong choices when using 7.62x39mm rounds. The SKS is another viable option, often found in early-game runs, but it is a semi-automatic rifle.
6. What is the best 5.56 NATO ammo for AKs in Tarkov?
For the AK-101 (5.56x45mm), the M995 round is the top choice for its high armor penetration. However, M855A1 is a strong alternative, being slightly less effective but easier to acquire.
7. Why is the AK-74 considered better than the AKM by many?
The AK-74, specifically the AK-74M in Tarkov, is considered superior by many due to its lower recoil, allowing for better accuracy, particularly in full-auto. The 5.45x39mm round also offers good penetration and damage characteristics.
8. Should I suppress my AK in Tarkov?
Suppressing your AK can be beneficial for reducing sound and muzzle flash. However, due to the design of AK platforms, the suppression of an AK is often not as effective as that of AR-15 pattern rifles. Experiment with different suppressors to find what works best for you.
9. What is the strongest bullet in Tarkov?
The strongest bullets in Tarkov are the .338 Lapua Magnum rounds which provide exceptional damage and armor penetration, often capable of one-shot kills to the thorax. However, they are not used with AK rifles.
10. Is the ammo in Tarkov realistic?
The ammo system in Escape From Tarkov is not entirely realistic. While based on real-world rounds, the game’s ammunition mechanics are designed for gameplay balance, often resulting in exaggerated or altered characteristics.
11. Is the AK-203 better than the AK-47?
The AK-203 is a modern variant based on the AKM pattern. While it incorporates improvements, such as better ergonomics, the fundamental performance in-game mirrors that of the AKM.
12. What does RPK stand for in Tarkov?
RPK stands for “Ruchnoy Pulemyot Kalashnikova,” which translates to “Kalashnikov’s hand-held machine gun.” The RPK in Tarkov is a light machine gun based on the AK platform and is chambered for 5.45x39mm or 7.62x39mm rounds.
13. What is a Draco in Tarkov?
The Draco is not in Escape From Tarkov. The Draco is a short barrel AK-47-style pistol that is known for its compact size.
14. Which boss in Tarkov is the hardest?
Generally, Glukhar is considered the most challenging boss to fight due to his varied tactics, large squad, and heavy armor. Other tough bosses include The Goons and Killa.
15. What gun should I start with in Tarkov?
The Colt M4A1 and AK-74M are considered excellent choices for starting weapons in Tarkov. These offer a good balance of damage, control, and customization options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while many AK variants are viable in Escape From Tarkov, the AK-74M stands out for its versatility, control, and the availability of effective ammunition. Its adaptability makes it a suitable choice for players of all skill levels and across various in-game scenarios. While the other AK rifles have their merits, the AK-74M provides a reliable, adaptable, and potent foundation for your raids in Tarkov. Remember that ammunition choice, thoughtful modding, and overall familiarity with the weapon will ultimately influence your performance.