The Ultimate Guide to Early Game Primary Weapons in Warframe

What is the best early game main weapon in Warframe? The answer isn’t a simple one, as “best” can depend on your playstyle and preferences. However, if we’re talking about a powerful, versatile, and relatively easy-to-obtain weapon for beginner players, the Hek shotgun stands out as the clear winner. The Hek, purchasable from the in-game market for credits once you reach Mastery Rank 4, delivers excellent damage output, especially against tougher early-game enemies. While not flashy, its straightforward nature and effectiveness make it a fantastic choice for tackling early missions and progressing through the Star Chart. Other weapons might be considered viable, like the Paris bow, but the consistent and powerful damage of the Hek makes it the most reliable early-game weapon.

Why the Hek is the Best Early Game Primary Weapon

The Hek’s strengths lie in its high base damage, decent fire rate for a shotgun, and relatively wide spread making it forgiving for newer players. Unlike some weapons that require specific mods or playstyles to shine, the Hek is effective from the get-go, even with basic mods. It’s also easy to understand and use, firing a single burst of pellets per shot. This simplicity is a boon for new players still getting to grips with Warframe’s mechanics. The ammo pool is respectable and doesn’t require constant reloading. This reliability allows players to focus on other aspects of the game, like movement and Warframe abilities, without worrying about their weapon being ineffective. The Hek serves as a solid stepping stone until players can access more advanced and specialized weaponry. Additionally, the Hek can be further enhanced by its Syndicate variant, the Vaykor Hek, obtained from the Steel Meridian syndicate later in the game, making it viable throughout the Star Chart and even into some mid-game content. This progression makes investing in the base version even more worthwhile.

Other Viable Early Game Options

While the Hek is the most recommended, other weapons provide viable options for different preferences. The Strun shotgun, although generally considered inferior to the Hek, is an early option players start with and can be decent before the Hek is available. The Paris bow is another potential early weapon, which can deal good damage from range, but it requires more precision. The MK1-Braton, as a starter rifle, serves the purpose for a very brief time, but it’s one of the first things to be replaced. The Torid, an AoE weapon, is powerful, but requires access to a Clan dojo with the blueprint available, making it less accessible for true beginners, thus it’s only mentioned in passing here as its power is undeniable. Finally, the Prisma Tetra, with its restricted availability, is a weapon players can aim for when they understand the game better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions related to early game primary weapons in Warframe:

1. What Mastery Rank do I need to use the Hek?

You need to reach Mastery Rank 4 to purchase the Hek blueprint from the in-game market.

2. Where do I get the Hek blueprint?

The Hek blueprint can be **purchased with credits** from the in-game market.

3. What resources do I need to build the Hek?

The Hek requires **Salvage, Alloy Plate, Polymer Bundle and Ferrite**. These resources are commonly found in early-game missions.

4. Is the Strun better than the Hek?

Generally, **no**. The Hek is considered a significant upgrade over the Strun, offering higher damage and overall effectiveness.

5. Is the Paris bow viable in the early game?

The Paris is a decent early game weapon but requires accuracy and a more precise play style compared to the Hek’s forgiving spread. It’s good for players who prefer a ranged approach.

6. What mods should I use on the Hek early game?

Focus on **damage and multishot mods**. **Point Blank** and **Shattering Justice** are good early options, along with elemental damage mods when available.

7. Should I invest in Forma for the Hek?

Forma is a resource used to add or change a weapons polarity which allows more powerful mod setups. Investing forma in the Hek early isn’t usually recommended unless you plan to use it for a longer period as it is eventually outclassed by later shotguns.

8. Are there any other good early-game shotguns?

While there are other early shotguns like the **Strun**, the **Hek is considered the best and most accessible option** for beginner players.

9. Is the MK1-Braton worth investing in?

The **MK1-Braton serves as a very temporary starting rifle**, and is quickly outclassed by other weapons, it's not worth investing in.

10. When should I consider replacing the Hek?

You might consider replacing the Hek as you reach **mid-game content** and have access to more powerful and specialized weaponry, particularly around Mastery Rank 8.

11. Can the Hek carry me through the entire Star Chart?

While the Hek is effective for most of the early Star Chart, players will eventually want to explore other options for tougher late-game missions. Its Vaykor version carries more into the late game.

12. What is the Vaykor Hek?

The Vaykor Hek is a Syndicate version of the Hek, obtained from the Steel Meridian syndicate. It offers increased stats and a unique ability, making it much more powerful.

13. What are the essential stats I should look for in an early-game primary weapon?

Focus on **high base damage, a decent fire rate, and a manageable spread or accuracy.** Ease of use is also crucial for beginners.

14. Should I build other weapons as a new player?

 **Yes, absolutely!** Experimenting with other weapon types is a great way to find what fits your playstyle, however the Hek is very reliable, especially during the beginning.

15. Is it worth it to use starter platinum on weapons?

It is not recommended to use your starting platinum on weapon purchases, as many powerful weapons like the Hek are craftable. Save the platinum for other things like Warframe slots or cosmetics.