If you’ve been grinding through the toughest missions in Helldivers 2, you already know that having the right loadout often makes the difference between success and total squad wipe. After spending countless hours testing different setups, I’ve narrowed it down to 12 proven weapon builds that consistently deliver high damage and keep you ahead of the game. Whether you’re farming for better Helldivers 2 Items or trying to carry your team through Terminid-infested zones, these builds should help you stay lethal.

1. Punisher Shotgun + Railgun Backup
The Punisher is your close-range answer to swarms, while the Railgun handles armored threats at a distance. A classic combo when you’re running missions solo or supporting a squad that needs quick crowd control.

2. Liberator Assault Rifle + Recoilless Rifle
Reliable damage output with the Liberator, paired with the Recoilless Rifle for vehicles and heavy enemies. This build remains a staple among players who prefer balanced combat.

3. Breaker + Arc Thrower
Use the Breaker’s stopping power for close encounters, then switch to the Arc Thrower when you need to melt through groups of mid-tier enemies. Works wonders during objective defense.

4. MG-43 Machine Gun + P-19 Redeemer
If you’re okay with slower mobility, the MG-43 shreds everything in sight. Keep the Redeemer as your emergency option when you get flanked.

5. LAS-5 Scythe + Autocannon
Great for sustained damage: the LAS-5 never runs out of ammo, while the Autocannon provides critical burst damage when your team runs into bigger foes.

6. Dominator + EAT-17
This build is ideal for players who like to stay aggressive. The Dominator handles most targets, and the EAT-17 demolishes armored vehicles before they become a problem.

7. Diligence Marksman Rifle + Anti-Materiel Rifle
Perfect for sharpshooters who love precision. The Diligence deals with infantry, while the Anti-Materiel Rifle handles turrets, mechs, and other high-priority threats.

8. Breaker Incendiary + Grenade Launcher
This combination is especially strong against Terminids. Fire keeps the bugs away, and the Grenade Launcher clears out nests quickly.

9. Quasar Cannon + Arc Thrower
A heavy-hitting setup for players who prioritize maximum burst. The Quasar Cannon obliterates large groups, and the Arc Thrower is great for close defensive play.

10. Liberator Penetrator + Recoilless Rifle
Use the Penetrator variant to punch through armored infantry, while the Recoilless Rifle handles anything larger. Reliable against Automatons.

11. Sentinel + EAT-17
Sentinel’s burst is perfect when you’re forced into corners, and the EAT-17 keeps heavier enemies from pushing you out of cover.

12. AR-23P Liberator Plasma + Autocannon
This build offers versatility: plasma rounds stun enemies, giving you a moment to reposition, and the Autocannon delivers the finishing blow.

Finding and testing these weapon builds takes time, especially when you also need to buy Helldivers 2 Items to keep your loadouts fully optimized. While experimenting, I found it’s helpful to get Helldivers 2 Items from reliable in-game vendors like U4GM, so you’re not stuck grinding forever for every single upgrade.

Remember, even the strongest builds shine brightest when your team communicates and covers each other’s weaknesses. These setups should give you a solid edge, but it’s always your strategy and teamwork that turn good weapons into game-winning tools.