Introduction: Ammo ≠ Just Numbers
With evolving armor and weapon mechanics, Tarkov’s ammo meta is fluid—and nuanced. Some rounds that seemed king yesterday underperform today, while others remain clutch with the right setup.
Understanding which ammo to prioritize is essential for survival, efficient farming, and maximizing post-wipe profit. This guide ranks what’s worth loading based on penetration, recoil, availability, and the changing economy, giving you a tactical edge in every raid.
Ammo Tier Breakdown
| Ammo Type | Armor Penetration | Cost (Roubles) | Recommended Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| BP 7.62×39 | 45 → Class 4 | Medium | Mid-range AK builds, general raids |
| AP 9×19 Subsonic | 35 → Class 3 | Low | Stealth runs, budget PMC raids |
| 7N39 9×39 | 65 → Class 5 | High | STANAG-SP, close-range assault, Labs runs |
| M995 5.56×45 | 61 → Class 5+ | Very high | Meta rifles for endgame PMCs, leaderboard fights |
| BS 7.62×51 | 72 → Class 5+ | Very high | Sniper rifles, long-range anti-armor engagements |
| PP 9×18 | 20 → Class 2 | Low | Pistols for scav or early-raid survival |
Why Some Ammo Is Meta
Ammo choice isn’t just about penetration—it’s about efficiency, availability, and your raid goals. High-tier ammo like M995 or BS is lethal but comes with high cost, limited stock, and drawing attention. Mid-tier ammo, such as BP or 7N39, balances cost and performance for sustainable farming. Low-tier ammo has situational value, perfect for scav runs, learning maps, or baiting enemies without risking premium rounds.
- Penetration vs cost efficiency: BP ammo gives reliable war-grade performance without breaking the bank.
- Availability vs power: AP 9×19 is cheap and versatile—even if it underperforms, it’s ideal for low-risk raids.
- Flexibility for builds: M995 or 7N39 remains top-tier but expensive—only use when your Roubles and Hideout investments justify the risk.
- Raid type matters: Close-quarters raids favor high penetration, whereas open maps can leverage lower recoil and faster fire rates.
Post-Wipe Strategy: Early vs Late Meta
Early wipe: Focus on mid-tier rounds for cost-effective raids. BP 7.62×39 and AP 9×19 give reliable kills without draining your budget. Gather barter items, sell surplus ammo, and use budget rounds to learn enemy behavior without high stakes.
Mid-wipe: Upgrade to high-penetration rounds for Labs, Reserve, and high-tier quests. 7N39 and M995 let you challenge players using Class 4-5 armor. Optimize weapon builds with ammo that complements recoil control, ergonomics, and magazine capacity.
Late-wipe: Stockpile premium ammo to dominate PvP hotspots, leaderboard raids, or endgame boss runs. Ammo choice here is about maximizing kill efficiency and minimizing failed engagements.
Practical Tips for Every PMC
- Always carry mixed ammo loads for unpredictability and target-specific penetration.
- Check the market and trader prices—some rounds spike post-wipe, others become rare after farming rush.
- Understand map layouts—long-range encounters favor sniper rounds, close-quarters favor subsonic or fast-mags.
- Use silencers to extend the utility of budget rounds, preserving stealth without giving up kills.
- Rotate ammo based on your raid goal: XP farming, barter runs, or aggressive PvP.
Conclusion: Load with Intent
Ammo in Tarkov is more than a number—it’s a tactical decision. Proper selection impacts survival, economy, and raid outcome.
Load the right round for your build, understand your enemy’s armor, and let your bullets reflect your strategic intelligence. In 2025, mastery of the ammo meta separates the casual PMC from the top-tier Tarkov operator.